Abstract
This article addresses the theological challenge of biblical inspiration in imprecatory passages, focusing on how Psalm 137 can be understood as both inspired and salvific. Drawing on the insights of Ormond Rush and the Pontifical Biblical Commission's document on inspiration, the author demonstrates that the Holy Spirit is actively engaged across three distinct dimensions of Sacred Scripture: the historical production of texts, the ecclesial formulation of the canon, and the ongoing reception of Scripture in history. Through the interplay of the sensus fidei and sensus fidelium, God meets individuals in their raw emotional states—including profound sadness and anger—while guiding them toward spiritual growth. Ultimately, the article argues that the salvific message of Psalm 137 is found by reading its vengeful passages in tension with the broader biblical call to love one's enemies, inviting believers to enter into a transformative relationship with God.
Recommended Citation
Alvarez, Francis D.
(2018)
"A Test Case for Recent Reflections on Inspiration: How Can Psalm 137 Be Inspired?,"
Landas: Vol. 32:
No.
1, Article 4.
Available at:
https://archium.ateneo.edu/landas/vol32/iss1/4