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I postulati della comunione con Dio secondo il Salmo 15

SUMMARY: Among the preliminary questions (author, literary genre, theme, division), special attention is paid to the «literary genre». This is determined by beginning with the conclusion (v. 5c), and not on the basis of the initial question (v. 1). This approach allows one to see a «sapiential catechesis», concerning the pressing problem of retribution. The «catchesis» emerges as comprising an initial question (v. 1), eleven responses (w. 2-5b), structured according to the scheme aba' b\ and a conclusion (v. 5c). The eleven condi­tions are divided into tuo groups: the first group (3 conditions) concerns the integral obser­vance of the code of the covenant (v. 2); the second group (8 conditions) considers relation­ships with one's neighbour (w. 3-5b). The eight conditons of the second group deal with human relationships (human, economic, juridical), and point out that in love of neighbour lies the postulate for living in communion with God and not meeting a premature death (a destiny reserved for the wicked). The conclusion (v. 5c) affirms that he who acts in confor­mity with the code of the covenant (he who does these things) will not waver forever, that is, will not meet a premature death. He will live forever in communion with God and with the people of the covenant. Psalm 15 is of topical interest because it points out that the basic premises for living in communion with God forever are to be found in the «law of goodness* (Tob 4,15; Mt 7,12). Sung in the context of the Christian liturgy, Psalm 15 is enriched with a new content: he who is faithful to the code of the covenant, a covenant which God has established with the huma­nity of Christ, will have eternal life and will inherit the kingdom of God (Mt 19,17).