Written in their original context, the psalms are meant be recited in a poetic matter, with a certain amount of syllables for each line. In true form, if recited in this poetic manner, the psalm is successfully re-enforced putting focus on certain words and phrases, manipulating the way that they sound. In addition, it appears to me as the earlier texts are more literal, and as a result the word choice is much harder especially pertaining to those who disobey the Lord:
In line 6 “vex them fuddenlie” has a much harsher quality to it than in Alter’s version where it says, “His burning anger dismay them”. On the other hand, this point is proved it can exist as the opposite later in the Psalm. In line 10, Alter’s version states, “And, O you kings pay mind, be chastened you rulers of earth”. The Bay Psalms looks like :
This differs significantly both in wording and the meaning you can draw out of it. The word chasten, is used to describes the harsh punishment that await the leaders who are not acting in accordance with god. The Bay Psalm provides a less graphic description with what will happen as it states “be learned ye ludges of the earth”. As opposed to my first point that the older text has a more harsh and literal sound to it, this citation proves the opposite and also shows the constant variation and transformation between the two different interpretations.
No comments:
Post a Comment