Old Testament Psalms and Pedi Psalm-like Songs: a Descriptive and Comparative Assessment

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.