Author Archives: Plymothian

Zion is a symbol of Hebrew nationalism.  The return of Israelites to their homeland settling amidst the Palestinians is called Zionism.  The mount in Jerusalem is a central symbol of Jewish identity.  Psalms like Psalm 48 have helped to elevate … Continue reading →

Postmodern means that which follows the modern.  The modern period was the time when mankind set itself up as the ultimate authority.  Scripture, myths, and emotions needed to take second place to science and logic.  In falling in love with the scientific … Continue reading →

In Psalm 46 there is once more a reference to the waters.  In this case the reference is to mythical primal waters.  You may remember that in Genesis 1 the Spirit of God hovers over the waters.  The mythological significance … Continue reading →

When I was in state elementary school we used to sing the song: I hear the sound of rustling in the leaves of the trees, The Spirit of the Lord has come down on the earth. The Church that seemed … Continue reading →

In Israel it was understood that if you lived a wise life things would go better for you.  It was also understood that if you were faithful to the Old Testament law, things would go well with you.  It is … Continue reading →

My friend Fred says, “Once more, with feeling,” when something is repeated.  Psalm 43 is a continuation of Psalm 42.  The passage,”Why, my soul, are you downcast?/ Why so disturbed within me?/Put your hope in God, /  for I will yet praise … Continue reading →

When I read Psalm 42 I have a deeper sense of how the psalmist feels because of being to Israel.  Between Jerusalem and the Dead Sea is the wilderness and it is dry and hot.  I have never been without … Continue reading →

I am surprised that I am being used by God at all. Why?  Because I would count myself among the weak.  I am not emotionally a giant.  I know enough to know that I don’t know much.  I fight for … Continue reading →

The psalmist paints a strong picture of a person who is helpless at the bottom of a cistern or well.  There is no escape from this prison.  Only God has the ability to reach into the mire and pull the … Continue reading →

For the psalmist there is no clear understanding of an afterlife.  We read that into the text after we are have read the New Testament.  For the psalmist, the presence of God is searing in its justice and righteousness.  He … Continue reading →