Die praktyk van liturgiese psalmsang in die NG Kerk in Suid-Afrika en Namibië

Abstract

This study probes the state of psalm-singing in the Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerk (Dutch Reformed Church) in South Africa and Namibia during 2007-2008. First, the history of psalm-singing, from its Old Testament origin to its contemporary use in South Africa, is researched. Highlights of its development, as well as low points where congregational psalm-singing all but died out, are researched in order to establish the causes of the current situation. The essence of the study involves an empirical study to determine the frequency of use and functionality of psalms. The results of different approaches all show that to a large extent, psalms have fallen in disuse in this church and that, with the exception of only a small number of psalms, they are becoming extinct. However, in criticism against the Liedboek van die Kerk (Songbook of the Church) (2001) a number of important problems were emphasised, according to which conclusions and recommendations are made. The most prominent cause of the problem is identified as the cultural difference between the existing psalm tradition and the intelligibility of the members of the church. The reason for this problematic situation is traced back to the one-sided application of fixed norms. Based on these, research is done to determine which factors should be taken into account in terms of the receptiveness of church-goers to accommodate these norms as adaptable norms. These factors are explained, ways to apply them are discussed and recommendations are made accordingly.