The Book of Psalms, is a collection of 150 poems. While they are attributed to King David, historically, the Psalms were written by a variety of individuals. Further, their composition and crafting span hundreds of years. It is opined that they were compiled into final form during the Babylonian exile. Psalms are used within daily prayer. “They are recited at times of illness and crisis. They are chanted joyously in times of good fortune and when heartfelt prayers have been answered.” Psalms, Artscroll. This post will discuss a Psalm containing a message with respect to governance and responsibility.
Psalm 146 expresses a divine view concerning social commentary and criticism. The poem asserts matters similar to those offered by the Prophets. It is contended that the slogan “In truth, in justice and in righteousness” describes the three rails of society. Each rail is open to societal criticism. It is contended that a nation’s health requires that each rail be maintained within proper limits. Therefore, societal and governmental conduct within each rail must be scrutinized in order for proper functioning.
The Rails
The rails are essentially as follows: each nation hold societal truths, i.e. “we hold these truth to be self evidence that all men are created equal that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” U.S. Declaration of Independence.
Further, a nation must have a functional legal system and laws which provides access to all. i.e. “You shall put judges and officer in all your gates.” Deuteronomy 16:18.
Finally, there is righteousness- social welfare. i.e. With respect for the field’s corners, “You shall leave them for the poor and the alien.” Leviticus 23:22.
The Psalm
Psalm 146, includes the following passage: “He (the Lord) safeguards the truth forever; He does justice for the exploited, He gives bread to the hungry, the Lord release the bound; the Lord gives sight to the blind; the Lord straightens the bent; the Lord loves the righteous, the Lord protects strangers, orphan and widow He encourages” Psalm 146, Lines 6-9
Due to the Psalms’ poetic nature, the road map for the Divine plan is not explicitly contained.
The Reality
To accomplish most of the poem’s vision, arguably, the Torah is required. The commandments, laws and instructions are meant as a delegation of many tasks to fulfill these lofty goals.
Prophets and social critics are meant to safeguard the truth. This requires individuals who are both knowledgeable and have the courage to voice concerns. Judges are required to protect the exploited. Farmers are necessary to grow crops and others are required to assist in food distribution. Nations are charged to act to free captives. Medical Practitioners, blessed with science, are required to act to heal the blind and crippled. Society is charged to protect strangers, orphans and widows.
A Problematic Vision?
People can have varying viewpoints on the above-stated matters. This is a good thing. Debates are needed; only a competition of ideas can yield the best solutions. Scrutiny is welcome. Solutions within these three rails must be carefully crafted to not exceed what is required. Extreme and excessive measures destroy systems. The optimal solutions might be of the Goldilock’s variety- not too hard, not too soft, but just right.
Conclusion
Poetry captures and inspires the soul. It has a different effect on people as opposed to cold and calculated laws. Poems offer lofty visions. They are prayer and exultation. They, however, leave readers facing reality when they come back to their senses.
“You are doing God’s work” is a phrase bandied about when an individual does something kind. Psalm 146’s reality is that that particular phrase, to some degree, it is quite true. The Torah presents as a Divine delegation requiring human agency.
Be well!!
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