Being Betrayed: The Psalmist’s Approach to Dealing with “Emotions of Exclusion”

Abstract

The psalmist describes betrayal by a close companion in Psalms 41 and 55. His response aligns with Betrayal Trauma Theory, but his strong relationship with God prevents a negative impact on his “self.” The structure of these Hebrew lament-poems reveals how the psalmist coped with emotional distress. Laments offer a way for burdened individuals to express pain, frustration, anger, fear, and disillusionment to God, seeking eventual relief. In Pss 41 and 55, this approach brings solace. However, in Pss 44 and 88, where YHWH appears as the “betrayer,” the psalmist’s hope remains unfulfilled, yet he relies on the covenant for eventual resolution.

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