Imitation of god as a principle for ethics today: a study of selected psalms

This study argues that imitation of god is a principle for ethical character and conduct in the world today. The contribution is to examine imitation of god in the psalms; hence, eleven psalms, namely psalms 8, 15, 25, 33, 72, 94, 101, 109, 111, 112 and 113 have been analysed using an integrated exegetical approach of historical-critical and literary-critical methods in combination with canonical-theological approach. the findings show, firstly, that humans are created in the image of god, and therefore they are to represent god’s character and conduct in the world. secondly, god’s character and conduct are characterized by righteousness, justice and ___, which are demonstrated by god’s care and concern for, and liberation of the poor, needy and oppressed. thirdly, in addition to liberation, god’s righteousness and justice include punishment for the oppressors, which is expressed in the so-called psalms of “vengeance”, in which the psalmists’ call for god to exercise vengeance against their oppressors is a call for justice and righteousness to prevail. fourthly, the human ethical response is motivated by the blessings and punishment of the righteous and the wicked respectively, the fear of the lord and by offering praise to god.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

d_ph

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

d_ph

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Birmingham

Year dc:date.issued

2010

Author dc:creator

• Durant, Karen Elizabeth

• BL Religion