Structure and Allusion in the Apostrophe Zion (11QPs a 22:1-15)

The Apostrophe to Zion (11QPs a 22:1–15) is a Second Temple song structured as an alphabetic acrostic. A tripartite structure at alphabetic units ע-ת, ט-ס, א-ח with each part enclosed by inclusio has also been observed. In this paper it is proposed that the song also displays a seven part concentric structure, comprising A//A1—an opening and closing invocation to praise at units א-ב// ר-ת ; an outer circle B//B1 units ג-ח//ע-ק in which a vision of the glorious future of Zion is recalled; an inner circle C//C1 units ט-כ//מ-ס in which past saving events are recalled and reflected upon in terms of the wisdom doctrine of retribution, and finally, a central section D at unit ל in which the hope of Zion is reaffirmed. Within this concentric structure the poet balances two biblical allusions to Isa 66:10–11 and Dan 9:24 in such a way that they enter into dialogue one with the other. In this the poet shares what appears to be a common Second Temple interpretive strategy of viewing earlier scriptural texts in the light of later ones.