volume 5, issue 1, 2013, pages 25-40

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64438/sbsGYWJ1687
Published online: 2013-06-01
Published in print: 2013-06-30

Abstract: Psalm 8 is one of those psalms that elicit a wide range of reactions, and not only among scholars. It is cited in the New Testament several times. The present article focuses on verses 2b and 3 which are probably influenced by later redaction (during the time of the Exile and shortly after). After a textual critical overview of these verses (the question of ʼăšertenāh andʼōz) as well as some notes regarding their interpretation, the article proceeds to consider their theological content, in particular from the perspective of the Exodus events. The second part of the article deals with the New Testament citation of Ps 8:3 in Mt 21:16, in the context of Jesus’ cleansing of the Temple and the children’s acclamation of him. Unlike the other Synoptic accounts, the one of Matthew introduces – along with the chief priests – the blind and the lame, and also the children. Their role here, as well as in other Matthean texts where children are involved, is to aid in understanding Jesus’ point in citing the Psalm in 21:16. Particularly inspiring, in connection with the expression paídes, is the episode at beginning of the gospel about the massacre of the infants. The link to the Exodus events sheds light on the Temple episode, too. Children represent the community persecuted for its confession of Christ while, at the same time, already participating in His victorious power. In citing the Psalm, therefore, Matthew develops its christological and ecclesiological dimensions.