Affiliation:
1. June F. Dickie, Ph.D. (University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa) worked on the Bible translation of Kimwani (N. Mozambique) for 20 years before completing a doctorate in 2017. Since then she has been doing postdoctoral research, mainly in the reception of Psalms by contemporary communities. Currently, she is working on the role of poetry and performance to enrich children’s lives. She can be contacted by email at .
Abstract
The psalmist describes betrayal by a close companion in Psalms 41 and 55. His response aligns with Betrayal Trauma Theory, but his strong relationship with God prevents a negative impact on his “self.” The structure of these Hebrew lament-poems reveals how the psalmist coped with emotional distress. Laments offer a way for burdened individuals to express pain, frustration, anger, fear, and disillusionment to God, seeking eventual relief. In Pss 41 and 55, this approach brings solace. However, in Pss 44 and 88, where YHWH appears as the “betrayer,” the psalmist’s hope remains unfulfilled, yet he relies on the covenant for eventual resolution.