Remembered space as hermeneutical method in Psalms studies with reference to Psalm 90

Abstract

This article combines the model of critical spatiality with collective memory and religious imagination in order to create a theoretical basis from which to study biblical texts. The combination of critical spatiality, collective memory and religious imagination amount to remembered space as hermeneutical method. In order to be able to employ remembered space as hermeneutical method, as applied to Psalm 90 in this article, a number of aspects must be considered. These aspects include the different dimensions of space as per spatial theory, the bases of ancient Near Eastern worldview and spatial orientation, as well as the theoretical principles of collective memory. Contribution: After considering all of these aspects, the article argues that remembered space provides a fresh perspective on the interpretation of biblical texts, highlighting the spatial notions, collective memory and imaginative outcomes underlying biblical texts. As a case in point, Psalm 90 employed remembered space through imaginative remembering to reimagine stability, identity and faith in a post-exilic time of crisis, instability and trauma.

Keywords

• critical spatiality
• collective memory
• religious imagination
• psalms
• old testament.