From Psalms of Solomon 8 to 1 Thess 4,13-5,11: A Common Intra-Jewish Apocalyptic System?

The apocalyptic system of Psalms of Solomon 8 reappears in 1 Thess 4,13-5,11, beginning with the sound of the horn. It then announces the auspicious and ominous encounter between God and his people and closes with the faithfulness of God to his elect. Following the same track, the two sources share the common motifs of devastation, hidden sins, drunkenness and the encounter with the Lord. Before the deceptive proclamation of 'peace and security' and the consequent mani festation of wrath, the author of Psalms of Solomon 8 and Paul share a hope in salvation through God’s faithfulness to the election. More than just anti-imperial propaganda, Psalms of Solomon 8 and 1 Thess 4,13-5,11 reflect a polemic among intra-Jewish movements against those who do not place their trust in the Lord. The undeniable differences between the two sources co-exist within an apocalyptic system shared between 'the pious of God' in Psalms of Solomon 8 and 'the holy ones' in 1 Thessalonians.