Abstract:
Psalms 65–68 form a tight collection or “cluster” of psalms close to the
conclusion of Book II of the Psalter. The implied redactors’ purpose with this
cluster was to offer thanksgiving and praise to God for manifesting his
eschatological rule over the entire world. This article investigates the function
of spatial descriptions in defining God’s rule over the cosmos in these four
psalms. After establishing harmony in the world, God is present as King in his
temple in Zion. To dwell in his vicinity is the pinnacle of his people’s blessing
and privilege. Further away from Jerusalem, all nations, even to the ends of the
earth, worship and praise God and bring him gifts. There is a centripetal
movement of joy, worship, praise, and tribute toward God from all who accept
his benevolent rule over the world, but also a centrifugal movement away from
him by those who oppose his rule and refuse to accept it.
