RT Article T1 Why was the macalot collection (Ps 120-134) written? JF Hervormde teologiese studies VO 50 IS 3 SP 798 OP 811 A1 Viviers, Hennie LA English YR 1994 UL https://ixtheo.de/Record/1946124621 AB Why was the macalot collection (Ps 120-134) written? A dose reading of the macalot collection (Ps 120-134) proves that it is a work of unity and poetic worth. I f the ‘answer’ communicated by the text is ‘trust in Yahweh’, what might the ‘question’ or ‘problem’ be? How does the social context illuminate the text? With the sociological insights of C Geertz and W Brueggemann the sociological function of the collection is determined. Relevant sociohistoric data are used in reconstructing the possible social setting of the collection. Text and context match! The first in fact ‘mirrors’ the latter. The (macro-) context is that of disconsolation (ca 445-350 B C in Jerusalem) and a dire need for a message of trust and hope - which the text does provide. The theme of trust is given substance within the world view and ethos of Zion, national and Godwith- us-theology. K1 Sociology and Ethics K1 Ancient Semitic and Classical Languages K1 Philosophy K1 Aspects of Religious Studies K1 Practical Theology K1 Ministers of Religion K1 Scholars K1 Philosophers K1 Theologians K1 Netherdutch Reformed Church K1 Theology DO 10.4102/hts.v50i3.2584