Psalm for the Second Sunday of Advent, Year A (Psalm 72:1-2,7-8,12-13, 17): An Analysis and Theological Insight

Agustinus Abraham

doi:10.61589/e15h7791

Authors

Agustinus Abraham Universitas Sanata Dharma Yogyakarta Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61589/e15h7791

Keywords:

Psalm 72; parallelism; metaphor; Psalms theology; royal psalm.

Abstract

This study examines Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17 as a liturgical and theological text that presents a vision of the ideal king as the primary mediator of God’s faithfulness to His people. Using hermeneutic methods in the subgenre of wisdom literature and supported by literature studies and content analysis, this research identifies forms of parallelism, psalm development structures, and the use of metaphors, as well as elaborating on the theological meanings contained in the text. The findings reveal that Psalm 72 constructs a progressive portrayal of a ruler marked by justice, compassion for the oppressed, and universal peace. Theologically, the psalm resonates with Isaiah 11:1-10 and Matthew 3:1-12, which together articulates a messianic hope for a reign characterized by righteousness and mercy. This study highlights that God’s faithfulness is often mediated through various agents-such as kings and social institutions, and in order to encourage readers to recognize God’s ongoing work within history and social life.

Keywords: Psalm 72; parallelism; metaphor; Psalms theology; royal psalm.

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Author Biography

Agustinus Abraham, Universitas Sanata Dharma Yogyakarta

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