Psalm 73: A Rhetorical Analysis Of Asaph

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Situated at the midpoint of the Psalter, Psalm 73, A psalm of Asaph, begins the third book of the five book collection of Psalms. The name Asaph is mentioned on several occasion within the Old Testament, such as Joah’s, a recorder in the court of Kings, father, however, the Asaph that the collection of Psalms, Psalm 73 - 83, are attributed to is most likely a musician appointed by David who sang at the dedication of Solomon’s Temple.(J.M.E 81) Mentioned on varied instances throughout the first and second chronicle, Aspah and a Asaph collection of Psalm appear to originate around the time of Hezekiah, although the content of these Psalms is unclear. (Firth, 27) Due to its individualized testimony and paradigm for the nation, Scholars often elevate psalm seventy-three’s importance among the psalter. …show more content…

Rhetorical Analysis Following a clear and distinguishable structure, Psalm 73 addresses a perpetual question; why the wicked thrive while the virtual suffer, a theme that is also customary to Psalm 49. (Dunn, 229) Opening and concluding with the emphasis on God’s goodness, the author undergoes a self examination and through a worship encounter reaffirms his faith. After accentuating the uprightness of God the author confesses to his own iniquities and failings, which begins the second portion of the layout; the problem and the characterization of the wicked, which is juxtaposed with the authors desire to remain faithful. Verse thirteen begins the third section; the author’s