Perceived and narrated space in Psalm 48

Abstract

Psalm 48 consists of two layers, a basic pre-exilic layer (vv. 2-7, 9, 13-14a, 15) and a redactional exilic layer (vv. 8, 10-12, 14b). Analyzed with the heuristic categories of spatial theory by H. Lefebvre (perceived space, conceived space and lived space), it can be shown, how the pre-exilic text’s praise of the impregnability of Jerusalem as city of God has been revised. This revision changes the perceived space, which the text is based on, into a narrated space, thus preserving trust in God and belief in Jerusalem as the City of God even in the face of destruction and exile.