Abstract:
This article investigates the form and purpose of Psalm 101 from two perspectives: As a
unique composition from the late Persian or early Hellenistic period, and in terms of its
function within the context of Book IV of the Psalter. It is suggested that it was designed by
exponents of wisdom and Torah piety to serve as a ‘royal psalm’ at exactly this location in
the Psalter. It was meant to offer support to faithful Yahwists by criticising the apostate
Judean aristocracy of its time of origin and serve as a prayer with which Yahweh could be
beseeched to establish his righteous rule by judging evildoers and thus vindicating the
faithful.
