The fourth vision of Perpetua and Psalm 88 (89)

Abstract

The paper explores the fourth vision of Perpetua from the early Christian work “Passio Perpetuae et Felicitatis”, focusing on her battle with an Egyptian. We identify liturgical allusions in the passage where Perpetua is anointed with oil by her helpers, drawing connections to Psalms, especially Psalm 88 (89). The term “ἀντιλήμπτωρ” is highlighted, linking it to God’s role as a helper in Psalms and its appearance in the vision. The anointing with oil in Perpetua’s vision is compared to New Testament references, where it serves purposes of exorcism and healing. The paper delves into the liturgical significance of oil, connecting it to the defense against defeat and the exorcism of evil. The paper suggests that the term “ἀντιλήμπτωρ” may have entered Perpetua’s vision through liturgical practices or the Psalter. Connections to Psalm 88 (89) are analyzed, with parallels found in Perpetua’s victory song, the image of a Lanista, and the defeat of an Egyptian reminiscent of Rahab in the Psalm. The transformation of Perpetua into a man is linked to the image of David in Psalm 88 (89), highlighting her role as a king-military commander. The image of the Egyptian is related to the images of Goliath and Pharaoh from Ezekiel’s prophecy. The paper concludes that these intersections between the vision and Psalm 88, such as the use of specific terms, anointing, and victorious themes, are not likely accidental and may indicate an unconscious influence. The Greek version of the vision is suggested to contain more recognizable liturgical allusions than the Latin version. The findings encapsulate the key points of a detailed analysis of the connections between Perpetua’s vision and Psalm 88 (89), highlighting the significance of these intersections in understanding the theological and liturgical context of the vision.