Psalm 2

I think that the 2nd version of Psalm 2 is written better than the one in our book. The one in our book is easier to read; the organization and selection of the words gives it clarity. To me this version emphasizes the readers and humans more than the other version; the sentences end with “you” or “they/them.” For example, “Be chastened, you rulers of earth,” and “the Master derides them.” It also focuses more on fearing God instead of revering him. Moreover, it has words with multiple syllables, rendering it less powerful when spoken because you say the words not necessarily more slowly but it extends the sentences so much that it loses some of the emotion involved. It makes sound awkward as well. In addition, it lacks a pattern that could make it sound more poetic.

Although the 2nd version is harder to read, it has more emotion. Each line has about the same number of syllables, which makes it flow better when read. In addition to fear, this version includes the word reverence, which arouses respect for God. In addition, the parts of the psalm that appeal to the emotions and demonstrate the power of God are written with single syllable words. I don’t know how to explain but I just think that words with one syllable have more passion or power when spoken together. The words are spoken not quickly, but one right after the other. Therefore, to me this version of pslam 2 emphasizes the passion within it. Moreover, some of the lines end with “I will.” These words are the ones the reader will remember the most because they are at the end. Also, they are part of the main clause, which carries the most emphasis. As a result, the readers will recall the emphasis on what God promises to his loyal followers.

The colonists would interpret it almost literally. A part of the Psalm, God states, “… thou fhalt poffeff the utmoft coafts abroad.” The colonists in this time period have just arrived and are adjusting to this country that is already inhabited by the Native Americans. Reading this Psalm would comfort them that as long as they follow God, then God would give them this country. Thus, the colonists could justify the removal of the Native Americans from their land because they are not followers of God. Applying the psalm to their situation, they would probably think that the Native Americans are being disloyal to God, which means that he will unleash his rage upon them. This perspective would probably be stronger among the Puritans who strongly believe in predestination; they probably think the New World is theirs because God had already decided it. Basically, this Psalm would allow the colonists justify their actions and their claim for the New World.