oa [‘Ik haat hen met een volkomen haat’ (Psalm 139:21-22), ‘I Hate them with Perfect Hatred’ (Psalm 139:21-22)]

In this article the offensive prayer of Psalm 139:21-22 is investigated with regard to its language, context and intentions. It is argued that the central notion of ‘hatred’ does not necessarily imply malicious intentions. Subsequently, vv. 21-22 are shown to form an integral part of this psalm, which is a meditative confession with three specific theological motives. Within this context, vv. 21-22 function as a confessio via negationis. The poet sees hating the enemy primarily as the opposite of his turning and dedication to YHWH. Next, the utterance of vv. 21-22 is examined within its own conceptual and spiritual framework, and its own religious and social life-scene. Finally, the question is discussed whether such prayers can still have a function in today’s Christian faith and worship.