- Would Psalms 44:2-3 indicate that this Psalm deals with an individual or, rather, with a group/nation, i.e. Israel?
- And, does Psalms 44:4 indicate that the “good times” and the victory in conquering Canaan (although that particular land is not mentioned specifically) was the result of military prowess or God’s help?
- If the Psalm were to end with Psalms 44:9 what would be its central theme — praise or request for aid at a difficult national time?
- With Psalms 44:10 the Psalmist is describing a time of victory, or of defeat — and a condition of deep trouble?
- Would Psalms 44:11-16 read as a direct “attack” on Divinity for no longer helping Israel?
- Although there is no specific reference to Israel or to Jacob or any other cognomen of Israel, is there any question as to what nation the Psalmist has in mind?
- While, in some passages (Psalms 44:16), the personal pronoun is used, is the Psalmist speaking of himself or himself as part of the nation?
- The central theme of Psalms 44:18-23 would indicate that, since God had neglected Israel, Israel had neglected God — or is there some other idea expressed?
- How would Psalms 44:23 be an appropriate tefillah for one who expects martyrdom?
- In the closing passages (Psalms 44:24-27) what is the specific request by the Psalmist of Divinity?
- Does Psalms 44, then, reflect a plea of the Israelites in Israel but defeated and under foreign rule, and/or in exile — or some other condition?
