Psalm 131:1
Hebrew Bible
1 A song of ascents, by David. O Lord, my heart is not proud, nor do I have a haughty look. I do not have great aspirations, or concern myself with things things too marvelous for me. 2 Indeed, I have calmed and quieted myself like a weaned child with its mother; I am content like a young child. 3 O Israel, hope in the Lord now and forevermore!
Date: 6th-3rd Centuries B.C.E. (based on scholarly estimates)
Source
Job 42:3
Hebrew Bible
1 Then Job answered the Lord: 2 “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted; 3 you asked, ‘Who is this who darkens counsel without knowledge?’ But I have declared without understanding things too wonderful for me to know. 4 You said, ‘Pay attention, and I will speak; I will question you, and you will answer me.’ 5 I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye has seen you.
Date: 5th Century B.C.E. (based on scholarly estimates)
Source
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Notes and References
"... The psalm [131] opens with a repudiation of pride. In address to God, the psalmist vigorously rejects haughty ways (Ezekiel 28:2, 17; Proverbs 16:5). Note the repetition of not, not, not (verse 1). Marvelous refers to what is beyond human understanding because it reveals the mystery of the divine love (Psalm 9:1; 78:11). The psalmist rejects the temptation to venture into the mysterious ways of God so as to understand or control them (Job 42:3; Isaiah 40:12-14). This psalm’s attitude of humility and limitation contrasts with Isaiah 2:6-22, where Israel is accused of being proud, haughty, and lifted up. Humble trust in God was a major element in the inner life of the poor and righteous. The psalm may have come from the circles of the righteous of the postexilic community ..."
* The use of references are not endorsements of their contents. Please read the entirety of the provided reference(s) to understand the author's full intentions regarding the use of these texts.
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