Abstract
The study of the root sot with special reference to the
Psalter revealed first of all that the root occurs frequently
enough in the Old Testament to suggest that the meanings attached
to it possess great importance in the life and worship of ancient
Israel.
Earlier studies are surveyed to provide light on what
has already been done on this subject. An analysis of the
occurrence of the root according to the different types of literature in the Old Testament is given; and a comparison with some
of the words which have related meanings (e.g. sedakah and torah)
is provided.
It was deemed necessary to place the study in context
and perspective and so a chapter is given to the occurrence of
the root in the literature of the Old Testament other than the
Psalter. This revealed that the root spt has reference to the
judicial process in Israel; that there is a highly ethical element
in the root; and that the root Is closely associated with Yahweh.
All of these point to a development, of the meaning of mi spat in
the direction of "manner of life" which Yahweh expected from
Israel.
One of the chanters dealing with the Psalter provides translations of the passages where the root occurs with exegetical notes
relating to each passage. This study revealed that the root spt
is closely associated with the themes emphasised in the cultic
life of Israel. Yahweh is the righteous Judge whose saving
acts are celebrated in the cult so that they become contemporary
for the worshipper and evoke from him a response of obedient faith
which is revealed in the fact that he executes justice in his everyday life. Yahweh has revealed His will to His covenant
people Israel so that her mismat is the style of life He expects
from His covenant partner, namely, obedience within the covenant
which is shown by just and merciful conduct.
Discussion of those psalms which may be called prayers of
the falsely accused reveals that the psalmists' appeal to divine
justice had a practical relevance. The theme of divine justice
within the covenant is also discussed and this part of the study
provides a clearer view of the meaning; of mispat in its relationship to the Covenant which Yahweh made with Israel at Sinai. The
celebration of the renewing; of the Sinai covenant as well as the
celebration of the appearing; of Yahweh as King and Judge in the
midst of His people was 'a powerful reminder to the people that
their God was a nresent source of strength and life to them. The
psalmist believed that Yahweh would readily offer His divine
justice to those who fulfilled the obligations of the covenant
by their obedience to.Yahweh's commandments in daily life and
work.