Old Testament Poetry and Wisdom Literature, Part 3

Intertextuality

Intertextuality is a tool for interpretation that helps us see legitimate, intended connections between various passages of Scripture. When a later author quotes, alludes to, or parallels an earlier author, we are meant to read the similarity of language in such a way that we grasp the similarity of topic. There are many examples of intertextuality in the Bible, but the poetic and wisdom writings of Scripture are particularly rich in this area. Specifically, the apostolic usage of these Old Testament texts demonstrates the overarching importance of biblical poetry.

One great example of this is the New Testament usage of Psalm 110. Psalm 110, in the context of the book of Psalms, plays a crucial role in intertextuality since it refers back to Genesis 14 and since it also links the biblical ideas of priesthood and kingship (cf. 2 Chron. 26:16-21). In the New Testament, it serves as one of the foundational texts for understanding who Jesus is and how He was described by God.

The number of times that Psalm 110 appears on the pages of the NT indicates how important it is. The text is quoted in Matt. 22:44, Mark 12:36, Luke 20:42-43, Acts 2:34-25, and Heb. 1:13 and alluded to in Matt. 26:64, 1 Cor. 15:25, Eph. 1:20, Eph. 1:22, Col. 3:1, Heb. 1:3, Heb. 8:1, Heb. 10:12, and Heb. 12:2—14 times in the New Testament! Clearly, this Psalm was the foundation for many of the theological truths that the apostles came to understand.

If a single text from the Psalms has such amazing impact on other truths, consider the possible influence of intertextuality for the study of the Bible. There are echoes and allusions throughout the Scriptures, but without a solid awareness of the teaching of the whole Bible it impossible to recognize them. With regard to the Psalms and wisdom literature, an interpreter is at a serious personal disadvantage if he cannot recognize or understand when these texts are referenced. Yet the Psalms and wisdom literature are some of the least understood books in the Old Testament (sadly, there is quite a bit of competition for the title of ‘Least Understood Book of the Old Testament’). Many people are broadly familiarity with individual Psalms, but it is increasingly rare to find church member—or leaders—who can explain the genre and structure of the book of Psalms as a whole. Moving to other books in the ‘wisdom’ milieu, our average familiarity only decreases.

Let this be a plea, then, for studying the wisdom literature of the Old Testament! If you struggle to grasp the significance of entire books of the Bible do not turn from diligence to apathy by giving up hope of ever understanding—rather, strive ever more diligently to familiarize yourself with the whole canon. Just as Ruth, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, and Lamentations help us understand other parts of Scripture, we can better understand these books by understanding the surrounding context of God’s perfect revelation to us. The problem is not a lack of scriptural clarity; oftentimes it is a lack of human willingness. Delve deeply into the Word of God, then! Seek Him diligently in all the parts of His revelation. Run the way of His commandments.

--Dean of Admissions

“Remove the false way from me,

And graciously grant me Your Law.

I have chosen the faithful way;

I have placed Your ordinances before me.

I cling to your testimonies;

O Lord, do not put me to shame!

I shall run the way of your commandments,

For You will enlarge my heart.”

--Psalm 119:29-32