ON EARTH AS IN HEAVEN

An Exegetical and Theological Study of Psalm 73

Abstract

Psalm 73 occupies a very important place among the 150 psalms in
the Psalter due to its profound theological insights and artistic
greatness. It summarises the theological message of the Psalter, which
is called a mini Bible, and is even entitled as the microcosm of the Old
Testament. The beauty of this prayer along with its theological and
canonical importance is evaluated, admired and expressed in many
commentaries, books and articles. This recognition is reinforced in
some monographs, yet, the theological consideration is not their
focus. Hence, the overall purpose of the present study is threefold: 1)
to present a systematic analysis of Ps 73’s place in the Canonical
Psalter and to trace its literary background; including its genre, Sitz
im Leben, structure, date, and authorship; 2) to make a close reading
of the psalm which really suffer with text critical problems for its
interpretation; and 3) to give a fresh theological understanding of the
text and to examine its relevance in today’s context. To accomplish
the aim of our study, a diachronic and synchronic reading of the text
is presumable.