The Psalm 124 Connection to the Holy Innocents: An Exploration

Psalm 124 serves as a testament to divine deliverance and is bound up with the feast of the Holy Innocents, a recognition of a specific event in the infancy of Jesus. This article delves into the connection between this provocative psalm and the solemnity of the Holy Innocents, providing a deeper understanding of the theological context and historical significance of this scripture.

Understanding Psalm 124 as a Psalm of Deliverance

Psalm 124 is categorized as one of the Songs of Ascent in the Hebrew Bible, a collection of psalms traditionally associated with the Israelites who journeyed from the desert to Jerusalem. This psalm is particularly revered for its powerful themes of divine protection and deliverance.

Exegetical Background

The psalm opens with a rhetorical question and a bold assertion: 'If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, now may Israel say; if it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us, then they would swallow us up alive, when their wrath was kindled against us' (Psalm 124:1-2). This verse encapsulates the core idea of divine intervention in times of peril.

Contextual Analysis

While the psalm explicitly references deliverance, scholars have debated whether Psalm 124 is a reflection of a specific historical event or a general prayer for divine protection. Some interpret this psalm as a historical reference to the Exodus from Egypt, where the Israelites were delivered from Egyptian bondage (Exodus 5-14). Others suggest it may allude to a more recent event, perhaps the Babylonian exile or Cyrus' release of the exiles (Isaiah 44:28).

The Feast of the Holy Innocents: A Day of Rememberance

The feast of the Holy Innocents is a Christian celebration commemorating the killing of young boys by King Herod in an attempt to eliminate the Messiah (Matthew 2:13-18). The psalm's connection to this feast is subtle but profound, reflecting the themes of divine protection and human wickedness.

Psalm 124 and the Holy Innocents

The psalm echoes the themes of deliverance that are central to the story of the Holy Innocents. Christendom views these innocent lives as a foreshadowing of the Lamb of God who became the ultimate sacrifice for sin. The psalmist's confidence in God's protection resonates with the faith of the Holy Innocents' parents, who trusted God's sovereignty in the face of Herod's tyranny.

Theological Reflections

Christians often see Psalm 124 as a prophetic or messianic psalm, foreseeing Christ's deliverance from Satan. This interpretation, while valuable, requires caution. The text of Psalm 124 does not explicitly mention Christ or messianic themes. It is more likely that the psalm provides a backdrop for the theological understanding of Christ's role as the ultimate innocent and victim of evil.

Conclusion: The All-Pervading Theme of Divine Protection

In conclusion, the connection between Psalm 124 and the feast of the Holy Innocents is rooted in the universal theme of divine protection. Both the psalm and the feast celebrate the victory of good over evil, affirming the believer's trust in God's sovereignty and justice. Whether through the Exodus, the Babylonian exile, or the infancy narratives, these events and the underlying psalms remind us of the power of divine deliverance in challenging times.

Keywords: Psalm 124, Holy Innocents, Biblical Deliverance