The Psalm 22 Controversy

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Christians see Psalm 22 as foretelling Messiah's crucifixion. Rabbis disagree. Messiah quoted Psalm 22 on the cross. Much of the controversy centers on the words: "They pierced my hands and my feet." The rabbinical translation says, "They seize my hands and feet like a lion." The manuscripts the rabbis use are from 800 to 1000 AD. But there are writings of the rabbis that are far more ancient. The Targums which were written in the first century say, "They have pierced my hands and feet." The Septuagint, another ancient Jewish translation, translates Psalm 22 as "They have pierced my hands and feet." So the most ancient texts affirms the prophecy using words that would apply to a crucifixion. When all is said and done, the most important thing is this one fact: Messiah died on the cross so that you could be saved. Therefore, live your life in such a way to be worthy of that sacrifice. Because He is the One of whom it was prophesied, they have pierced My hands and feet.

From Message #804 The Leper King: The Rabbinic Mysteries III