Psalm 138: The Pope Announces Synagogue Visit

Pope Benedict announced his intension to visit a Jewish Synagogue.

Psalm 138

Theoretical Time:

  • 13000-12-19 17:4:23 AA
  • 2010-01-05 10:32:00 TMMT
  • 2010-01-05 08:11:06 GMT
  • 2010-01-05 03:11:06 EST

26 Psalms 138


1I will praise you with my whole heart; before the kings, I will sing praise to you.
2I will worship in your holy house, and praise your name for your lovingkindness and for your truth; for you have magnified your word above every name.
3In the day when I cried to you, you answered me, and increased the strength of my soul.
4All the kings of the land will praise you, Yahvah, for they have heard the words of your mouth.
5Yes, they will praise the ways of Yahvah; for great is the glory of Yahvah.
6Though Yahvah is high, yet he can see those who have been brought low; but the proud he knows from far away.


7Though I walk in the middle of trouble, you will save me; you will stretch forth your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand will save me.
8Yahvah, rest your right hand on me; your mercy, Yahvah, endures forever; do not forsake the works of your own hands.

Synagog Visit

Pope Benedict has been working hard on issues of inter-faith dialog, and a few hours ahead of theoretical for this Psalm the Vatican announced a schedule for his visit to the Jewish Synagogue in Rome.

Matches

References to "Holy House" (see verse 2) at the headline level often involve events at the Vatican. In this case the Pope is going to visit another house of worship, which appears to be the issue of this Psalm. The Pope is technically a head of state, and so verse 1 is addressing those who will worship with the Pope.

Verse 4 deals with the king's praise of God.

Verse 6 deals with those who have been brought low. In this case the severe contrast between the Catholic church that span the globe, and a lowly Synagogue.

Verse 7 deals with walking in trouble. In this case the point of view may have shifted, with the Pope walking in trouble with Jews over his recent, December 19, declaration recognizing the "heroic virtue" of Pope Pius XII.

By Phil Stone
Posted Saturday, Benjamin 23, 13000