OLD TESTAMENT PSALMS AND PEDI PSALM-LIKE SONGS

Up to now there has been no attempt by Biblical scholars to compare the book of Psalms in the Old Testament with Pedi psalm-like songs. This study aims to fill that gap in the research and so contribute to the development of the African cultural heritage especially that of the Pedi culture, by using indigenous knowledge systems. The research commences with a descriptive analysis of the various genres within the Book of Psalms. Then follows a descriptive assessment of numerous types and specific examples of Pedi Psalm-like songs via the provisioning of text, translation and a detailed commentary pertaining to contents and function. Finally the book provides a critical comparison between biblical psalms and Pedi psalm- like songs. The research demonstrates that there are numerous interesting similarities between the two cultures'' songs with regard to a variety of aspects, but also reveals substantial differences between the two musical traditions pertaining to an equally great number of issues. This study is therefore a contribution in furthering knowledge in Ethnomusicology, Biblical and Religious Studies and Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Africa.