The "book of life" (Psalm 69:29) - a question of life or death?

Abstract

The image “book of life” is mentioned expressis verbis in Psalm 69:29a. The supplicant appeals to God to erase his enemies from the “book of life”. The aim of this paper is to elaborate on this image. Quite varied notions can be distinguished in this regard: firstly, the idea of the lists of the citizenry and secondly, the image of the heavenly book. Furthermore, three types of “heavenly books” can be distinguished, namely (1) the book of fate; (2) the book of works; and (3) the book of life. The conclusion is drawn that “life” here implies “life” under the protection of God which is sustained by his righteousness (69:28). The supplicant’s enemies will be excluded from this privilege when God erases them from the “book of life”. This reference to life is primarily a reference to ordinary earthly life.