The authorship of Psalm 40 is historically attributed to King David, a distinguished determine within the Outdated Testomony. This attribution stems from the psalm’s inclusion within the Guide of Psalms, a set largely related with Davidic custom. The psalm expresses themes of deliverance from bother, gratitude for divine intervention, and a dedication to proclaiming God’s faithfulness.
Understanding the attributed authorship supplies worthwhile context for deciphering the psalm’s emotional depth and theological significance. Ascriptions equivalent to this join the textual content to particular historic intervals and life experiences, doubtlessly illuminating the motivations and intentions behind its composition. Such insights can enrich one’s appreciation of the psalm’s poetic language and non secular message. This query of origin additionally provides a place to begin for exploring broader themes of authorship and custom inside biblical literature.
This exploration of the psalm’s conventional ascription serves as a basis for delving into its particular content material, literary construction, and theological interpretations. Additional evaluation will uncover the layers of which means woven throughout the textual content and its enduring relevance for each particular person religion and communal worship.
1. Davidic Authorship (Conventional)
The standard ascription of Psalm 40 to King David considerably shapes interpretations of its which means and objective. This attribution, stemming from Jewish and Christian custom, hyperlinks the psalm to the Davidic covenant and the messianic expectations related to it. The superscription present in some variations of the Outdated Testomony reinforces this connection. Consequently, the psalm is commonly learn by means of a lens that connects its themes of struggling, deliverance, and reward to David’s personal life experiences as king, warrior, and poet. For instance, the expressions of anguish and pleas for assist discovered within the psalm could be interpreted as reflecting David’s struggles in opposition to enemies or private trials. This conventional understanding has profoundly influenced liturgical utilization and theological reflection all through historical past.
Nevertheless, the absence of specific inner proof throughout the psalm itself confirming Davidic authorship necessitates cautious consideration. Fashionable scholarship typically questions conventional ascriptions based mostly on linguistic evaluation, historic context, and thematic discrepancies throughout the Psalter. Some argue that sure stylistic options or theological views current in Psalm 40 level to a post-exilic composition, a interval lengthy after David’s reign. This doesn’t negate the worth or significance of the standard view however encourages a nuanced method to understanding the complexities of authorship throughout the Guide of Psalms. As an illustration, the emphasis on ready for God’s deliverance might be considered from a post-exilic perspective as reflecting the hopes and anxieties of a group craving for restoration after exile.
Regardless of ongoing scholarly debate, the standard attribution of Psalm 40 to David stays a robust affect on its reception and interpretation. Recognizing this custom permits for appreciation of the historic and theological views it provides. Concurrently, participating with vital scholarship supplies a extra complete understanding of the psalm’s potential origins and multifaceted meanings. Balancing these views enriches the research of Psalm 40 and encourages deeper engagement with its enduring message of hope and religion.
2. Psalm’s Content material
Evaluation of Psalm 40’s content material provides worthwhile, albeit inconclusive, insights into its potential authorship. Particular themes, vocabulary, and historic allusions throughout the textual content present avenues for exploration. As an illustration, the psalm’s vivid descriptions of struggling and subsequent deliverance might counsel a private expertise of hardship, prompting hypothesis about whether or not it displays occasions in King David’s life, equivalent to his flight from Saul. Equally, the expressions of belief in God and declarations of reward align with the overall tenor of Davidic piety expressed in different psalms historically attributed to him. Nevertheless, these thematic connections don’t represent definitive proof of authorship.
Moreover, the psalm’s concentrate on proclaiming God’s faithfulness and steadfast love aligns with broader covenantal themes current in Davidic traditions. This correspondence has led some students to interpret Psalm 40 as a royal psalm, doubtlessly utilized in liturgical settings to have a good time God’s covenant with David and his dynasty. Nevertheless, different students word that related themes seem in psalms attributed to different authors or originating from later intervals, complicating the connection between content material and authorship. Inspecting the particular vocabulary and imagery employed in Psalm 40 can additional illuminate this dialogue. Whereas sure phrases resonate with Davidic language discovered elsewhere within the Outdated Testomony, different expressions counsel potential hyperlinks to post-exilic literature, reflecting the evolving language and theological views of later intervals.
In abstract, whereas Psalm 40’s content material provides intriguing clues about its potential origins, it doesn’t present definitive solutions concerning authorship. Thematic and linguistic connections to Davidic custom exist, but ambiguities stay. Integrating textual evaluation with historic and literary context supplies a extra nuanced understanding of the psalm’s significance and potential connection to David, whereas acknowledging the constraints of relying solely on inner proof for definitive attribution. Additional investigation into the historic setting and literary context of Psalm 40 is important to achieve a extra complete perspective on this advanced problem.
3. Historic Setting
Establishing a definitive historic setting for Psalm 40 proves difficult, straight impacting the power to establish its authorship. A exact historic context, if identifiable, might considerably slender the vary of potential authors. For instance, if clear proof pointed to a post-exilic origin, Davidic authorship would change into extremely inconceivable. Conversely, if linguistic and thematic parts strongly aligned with the historic context of David’s reign, it will strengthen the standard attribution. Nevertheless, the psalm lacks specific inner markers indicating a selected time interval. This absence of clear historic references complicates efforts to definitively hyperlink the psalm to a selected creator or historic circumstance.
Hypothetically, if the psalm alluded to particular historic occasions, equivalent to battles or political alliances documented throughout David’s reign, a stronger case might be made for Davidic authorship. Equally, references to exile or the restoration of the temple would counsel a post-exilic composition. Nevertheless, Psalm 40 primarily focuses on private experiences of struggling, deliverance, and reward, making direct connections to particular historic occasions troublesome to ascertain. This ambiguity necessitates exploring various approaches, equivalent to analyzing the psalm’s language, literary model, and theological themes, to glean potential clues about its historic setting and, consequently, its authorship.
The absence of a clearly outlined historic setting for Psalm 40 highlights the complexities inherent in figuring out authorship for historic texts. Whereas the shortage of specific historic markers presents challenges, it additionally underscores the enduring nature of the psalm’s themes. These themes of struggling, hope, and reliance on divine grace resonate throughout varied historic contexts, contributing to the psalm’s continued relevance for various communities of religion. Additional exploration of its literary and theological dimensions can present further insights into its which means and potential historic connections, even within the absence of definitive historic markers.
4. Literary Model
Evaluation of Psalm 40’s literary model provides potential clues concerning its authorship, though definitive conclusions stay elusive. Particular stylistic options, equivalent to parallelisms, imagery, and vocabulary, could be in contrast with different biblical texts to determine potential connections or discrepancies. As an illustration, the frequent use of parallelisms, a attribute function of Hebrew poetry, aligns with the overall model of many psalms attributed to David. Nevertheless, the presence of parallelisms alone doesn’t affirm Davidic authorship, as this stylistic machine seems extensively all through biblical poetry. Inspecting the particular forms of parallelisms employed and their thematic perform inside Psalm 40 might provide extra nuanced insights.
Moreover, the psalm’s use of vivid imagery, such because the depiction of being pulled from a miry pit, could be in contrast with related imagery present in different biblical texts. If constant patterns emerge, linking particular imagery or metaphors to explicit authors or historic intervals, it might contribute to a extra knowledgeable understanding of Psalm 40’s potential origins. Nevertheless, warning is important, as recurring imagery might mirror broader cultural or literary conventions moderately than definitive proof of authorship. Vocabulary evaluation provides one other avenue for exploration. Evaluating the particular phrases and phrases utilized in Psalm 40 with different biblical texts can reveal potential linguistic connections or distinctions. For instance, if the psalm employs vocabulary attribute of post-exilic Hebrew, it will problem the standard attribution to David.
In abstract, analyzing Psalm 40’s literary model supplies worthwhile insights, nevertheless it doesn’t provide conclusive proof of authorship. Whereas stylistic options like parallelisms and imagery could be in contrast with different biblical texts to determine potential connections or discrepancies, these comparisons have to be interpreted cautiously. Integrating stylistic evaluation with different types of textual and historic evaluation provides a extra complete method to understanding the psalm’s potential origins and literary significance. The complexities inherent in figuring out authorship based mostly solely on literary model underscore the necessity for a multifaceted method that considers varied strains of proof.
5. Theological Themes
The theological themes current in Psalm 40 provide worthwhile insights into its potential authorship, although they don’t present definitive solutions. The psalm’s emphasis on themes equivalent to divine deliverance, steadfast love, belief, and the proclamation of God’s faithfulness could be in contrast with related themes present in different biblical texts, significantly these attributed to King David. As an illustration, the expression of unwavering belief in God amidst adversity resonates with David’s portrayal in different psalms and in narratives recounting his life. Equally, the theme of divine deliverance aligns with David’s experiences of being rescued from enemies and difficult circumstances. Nevertheless, these thematic connections don’t definitively show Davidic authorship, as these themes seem all through the Outdated Testomony, reflecting broader theological currents inside historic Israelite faith. Moreover, the particular nuances and expressions of those themes inside Psalm 40 require cautious consideration. For instance, whereas the psalm expresses confidence in God’s deliverance, it additionally acknowledges ongoing struggles and the necessity for continued divine help. This nuanced portrayal of religion might mirror a later historic context, such because the post-exilic interval, the place communities grappled with the challenges of rebuilding and restoring their relationship with God after exile. The presence of such nuanced views may counsel a special authorial voice than that historically related to David.
Furthermore, analyzing the interaction between particular person and communal views inside Psalm 40’s theological themes can provide additional insights. Whereas the psalm expresses private experiences of struggling and deliverance, it additionally incorporates language suggesting a broader communal context. The psalmist’s dedication to proclaiming God’s faithfulness and righteousness extends past particular person expertise, implying a priority for the group’s non secular well-being. This communal dimension might be interpreted as reflecting a post-exilic setting, the place the restoration of communal id and non secular follow performed a major position. Alternatively, it might characterize a broader Davidic concern for the well-being of the nation below his kingship. Distinguishing between particular person and communal views throughout the psalm’s theological themes helps to refine our understanding of its potential authorship and historic context.
In abstract, analyzing the theological themes in Psalm 40 provides a vital lens for exploring its potential authorship. Evaluating these themes with different biblical texts and analyzing their particular nuances and expressions throughout the psalm supplies worthwhile, albeit inconclusive, proof. Thematic connections to Davidic piety exist, but the psalm’s nuanced views and communal dimensions additionally counsel potential connections to later intervals. Integrating thematic evaluation with historic, literary, and linguistic issues is important for a complete understanding of Psalm 40’s origins and enduring theological significance. The complexities inherent in figuring out authorship based mostly solely on theological themes spotlight the necessity for a multifaceted method that considers varied strains of proof.
6. Lack of Definitive Proof
The query of Psalm 40’s authorship stays open as a consequence of an absence of definitive proof. Whereas custom ascribes it to King David, conclusive proof supporting this declare is absent. This absence necessitates exploring varied strains of inquiry, together with textual evaluation, historic context, and comparative stylistic evaluation, to achieve a extra nuanced understanding of the psalm’s origins.
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Inside Proof:
The psalm itself lacks specific statements concerning authorship. No inner claims or signatures definitively hyperlink it to a selected particular person or historic interval. Whereas sure phrases and themes resonate with different texts attributed to David, these similarities don’t represent conclusive proof. The absence of inner proof creates house for a number of interpretations and necessitates analyzing exterior elements.
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Exterior Proof:
Exterior proof, equivalent to historic data or archaeological findings straight connecting Psalm 40 to a selected creator, can also be missing. Whereas the psalm’s inclusion within the Guide of Psalms, historically related to David, lends some help to the standard attribution, the compilation technique of the Psalter stays advanced and spans centuries. The absence of impartial exterior corroboration leaves room for various theories concerning the psalm’s origins.
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Textual Variations:
Variations amongst completely different manuscript traditions of the Outdated Testomony additional complicate the query of authorship. Discrepancies in wording, phrasing, and even verse order increase questions concerning the stability of the textual content and the potential for later additions or alterations. These textual variations spotlight the challenges of reconstructing the unique type of the psalm and figuring out its unique creator. Reconciling these variations requires cautious textual criticism and comparative evaluation throughout completely different manuscript traditions.
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Scholarly Consensus:
No scholarly consensus exists concerning the authorship of Psalm 40. Whereas some students keep the standard attribution to David, others suggest various authors or counsel a later, post-exilic composition date. This ongoing scholarly debate underscores the inherent ambiguities surrounding the psalm’s origins. Differing interpretations of textual, historic, and linguistic proof contribute to this lack of consensus, leaving the query of authorship open for continued dialogue and analysis.
The shortage of definitive proof concerning Psalm 40’s authorship underscores the complexities of finding out historic texts. Whereas the standard ascription to David stays influential, the absence of conclusive proof invitations ongoing exploration and demanding evaluation. This ambiguity encourages engagement with a number of views and fosters a deeper appreciation for the psalm’s enduring message, no matter its exact origins. The continuing scholarly debate displays the richness and complexity of the textual content, inviting continued interpretation and engagement with its enduring themes.
7. Scholarly Debate
Scholarly debate surrounding Psalm 40’s authorship arises from the absence of definitive inner or exterior proof conclusively linking the psalm to King David. This lack of proof creates house for a number of interpretations, fostering dialogue amongst students concerning the psalm’s origins, historic context, and theological implications. Debates typically heart on textual evaluation, evaluating Psalm 40’s language, model, and themes with different biblical texts to determine potential connections or discrepancies. For instance, some students spotlight linguistic options that counsel a later, post-exilic composition, difficult the standard Davidic attribution. Others emphasize thematic connections to David’s life and experiences, arguing for the standard view. This ongoing debate underscores the complexities of deciphering historic texts and the challenges of reconstructing historic and literary contexts based mostly on restricted proof.
A key facet of this scholarly debate includes analyzing the psalm’s historic setting. Some students argue that the psalm’s themes of struggling and deliverance resonate extra strongly with the experiences of the exiled group in Babylon, suggesting a post-exilic origin. Conversely, different students join these themes to David’s struggles in opposition to enemies or private trials, supporting the standard ascription. This debate highlights the significance of historic context in deciphering biblical texts and the challenges of building definitive historic connections based mostly on restricted info. Moreover, the talk extends to the psalm’s theological implications. Differing interpretations of authorship affect how students perceive the psalm’s message of hope, belief, and divine deliverance. As an illustration, a post-exilic interpretation may emphasize the psalm’s relevance for a group searching for restoration and renewal after exile, whereas a Davidic interpretation may concentrate on the psalm’s connection to royal theology and messianic expectations. These various theological views enrich the continuing scholarly dialogue and display the multifaceted nature of biblical interpretation.
In abstract, scholarly debate surrounding Psalm 40’s authorship displays the inherent challenges of deciphering historic texts with restricted historic and biographical info. This debate underscores the significance of vital evaluation, textual comparability, and historic contextualization in understanding biblical literature. Whereas a definitive decision might stay elusive, the continuing scholarly dialog contributes to a deeper appreciation of the psalm’s complexity and its enduring relevance for various communities of religion. This ongoing exploration exemplifies the dynamic nature of biblical scholarship and its dedication to rigorous inquiry and nuanced interpretation.
8. New Testomony Utilization
The New Testomony’s use of Psalm 40 supplies a major lens by means of which to look at the query of its authorship and interpret its which means. Whereas not providing definitive proof of authorship, the New Testomony’s appropriation of the psalm sheds gentle on its perceived theological significance and its potential connection to messianic expectations. Understanding how and why the New Testomony writers integrated Psalm 40 into their writings provides worthwhile insights for up to date interpretations.
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Hebrews 10:5-7:
The creator of Hebrews quotes Psalm 40:6-8, making use of it to Jesus’ incarnation and obedience to God’s will. This utility interprets the psalm’s language of sacrifice and providing as prefiguring Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. This christological interpretation has considerably influenced Christian understanding of each the psalm and the idea of atonement. Nevertheless, it additionally raises questions concerning the unique intent and which means of the psalm inside its Outdated Testomony context. Did the psalmist envision a future messianic success, or did the creator of Hebrews reinterpret the psalm by means of a christological lens?
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Septuagint Variations:
The New Testomony citation of Psalm 40 in Hebrews follows the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Outdated Testomony. Nevertheless, notable variations exist between the Septuagint model and the Hebrew Masoretic Textual content. These variations, significantly in Psalm 40:6, increase questions on which model the creator of Hebrews relied upon and the way these textual variations impression interpretations of each the psalm and its New Testomony utility. Understanding these textual nuances is essential for a complete evaluation of the psalm’s use in Hebrews.
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Theological Interpretation:
The New Testomony’s use of Psalm 40 highlights the theological themes of obedience, sacrifice, and success. By making use of the psalm to Jesus, the creator of Hebrews emphasizes Christ’s success of Outdated Testomony prophecy and his position as the final word sacrifice for sin. This theological interpretation shapes Christian understanding of the psalm and connects it to broader narratives of salvation historical past. Nevertheless, it additionally necessitates cautious consideration of the psalm’s unique which means inside its Outdated Testomony context, impartial of its later christological interpretations.
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Authorship Implications:
Whereas the New Testomony’s use of Psalm 40 doesn’t straight resolve the query of authorship, it provides oblique insights. The creator of Hebrews attributes the psalm to David, aligning with conventional Jewish and Christian understanding. Nevertheless, this attribution inside Hebrews doesn’t essentially mirror historic certainty however moderately the accepted custom of the time. Due to this fact, the New Testomony’s use of the psalm, whereas theologically vital, doesn’t present conclusive proof concerning its unique authorship. It primarily illuminates how the early church understood and interpreted the psalm inside a creating Christian theological framework.
In conclusion, the New Testomony’s use of Psalm 40, significantly in Hebrews, supplies essential insights into its later interpretation and theological significance inside early Christianity. Whereas this utilization doesn’t definitively resolve the talk surrounding authorship, it provides worthwhile views on the psalm’s perceived messianic connections and its enduring relevance for understanding key Christian doctrines. Inspecting the particular methods the New Testomony engages with Psalm 40 enriches our understanding of each texts and highlights the continuing dialogue between the Outdated and New Testaments.
Regularly Requested Questions on Psalm 40’s Authorship
This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning the authorship of Psalm 40, aiming to offer clear and concise responses based mostly on accessible scholarly and conventional views. The complexities surrounding this subject necessitate a nuanced method, acknowledging each conventional beliefs and ongoing scholarly discussions.
Query 1: Why is King David historically thought-about the creator of Psalm 40?
Custom hyperlinks Psalm 40 to David as a consequence of its placement throughout the Guide of Psalms, a set largely related to him. Some variations embody a superscription attributing the psalm to David. This conventional ascription has considerably formed its interpretation all through historical past.
Query 2: Is there definitive proof that David wrote Psalm 40?
No definitive proof exists. Whereas custom factors to David, the psalm lacks specific inner or exterior proof confirming his authorship. This absence fuels ongoing scholarly debate and necessitates exploring varied interpretive views.
Query 3: What challenges the standard attribution to David?
A number of elements problem the standard attribution. Some students argue that sure linguistic options and theological views throughout the psalm counsel a later, post-exilic composition, lengthy after David’s reign. The absence of clear historic markers throughout the psalm additionally complicates efforts to definitively hyperlink it to a selected time interval.
Query 4: How does the New Testomony use Psalm 40?
The New Testomony, particularly Hebrews 10, quotes Psalm 40:6-8, making use of it to Jesus’ incarnation and sacrifice. This christological interpretation has considerably influenced Christian understanding of the psalm, nevertheless it doesn’t definitively resolve the query of its unique authorship.
Query 5: What various theories exist concerning the psalm’s authorship?
Some students counsel a post-exilic origin, connecting the psalm’s themes of struggling and deliverance to the experiences of the exiled group. Different theories suggest nameless authorship or attribute the psalm to a later, unknown poet throughout the Davidic custom.
Query 6: How does the uncertainty about authorship have an effect on the psalm’s which means?
Whereas authorship informs interpretation, the psalm’s core themes of belief, deliverance, and reward retain their energy no matter its exact origins. Understanding the complexities surrounding authorship encourages deeper engagement with the textual content and its various interpretations all through historical past.
Understanding the complexities surrounding Psalm 40’s authorship encourages a deeper appreciation for its enduring message. Whereas definitive solutions might stay elusive, exploring these questions enriches engagement with the textual content and its various interpretations all through historical past.
This exploration of authorship supplies a basis for additional evaluation of Psalm 40’s literary construction, poetic imagery, and theological significance, which will probably be addressed in subsequent sections.
Understanding Psalm 40
Exploring the query of Psalm 40’s authorship opens avenues for deeper engagement with its wealthy theological and literary dimensions. The following tips provide steerage for navigating the complexities of this historic textual content and appreciating its enduring message.
Tip 1: Contemplate the Historic Context: Investigating the historic context surrounding Psalm 40, whether or not related to King David’s reign or the post-exilic interval, illuminates potential interpretations of its themes of struggling, deliverance, and hope. Completely different historic settings provide distinct lenses by means of which to grasp the psalm’s message.
Tip 2: Analyze the Literary Model: Take note of the psalm’s literary options, equivalent to parallelisms, imagery, and vocabulary. Evaluating these parts with different biblical texts can reveal potential connections and provide insights into the psalm’s literary artistry and potential origins.
Tip 3: Discover Theological Themes: Delve into the psalm’s theological themes, together with belief, divine deliverance, and the proclamation of God’s faithfulness. Contemplate how these themes resonate with broader biblical narratives and theological traditions.
Tip 4: Interact with Scholarly Interpretations: Consulting scholarly commentaries and analyses supplies worthwhile views on the psalm’s authorship, historic context, and theological significance. Participating with various scholarly viewpoints enriches understanding and fosters vital pondering.
Tip 5: Mirror on New Testomony Utilization: Look at how the New Testomony, significantly the Guide of Hebrews, makes use of Psalm 40. This utilization provides insights into the psalm’s later interpretation and its perceived connections to messianic expectations inside early Christianity.
Tip 6: Embrace Ambiguity: Acknowledge the inherent ambiguities surrounding Psalm 40’s authorship and historic context. Embracing these uncertainties permits for a extra nuanced appreciation of the textual content’s enduring energy and its potential to resonate with various communities of religion throughout time and cultures.
Tip 7: Deal with the Enduring Message: Whereas exploring authorship and historic context is effective, keep in mind that the psalm’s core message of hope, belief, and divine grace transcends particular historic circumstances. Deal with the psalms enduring themes and their relevance for up to date life and religion.
By making use of the following tips, readers can domesticate a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of Psalm 40. These approaches provide pathways for exploring the psalm’s enduring message and its significance inside each historic and up to date contexts.
This exploration of interpretive approaches prepares for a concluding reflection on the enduring significance of Psalm 40 and its continued relevance for people and communities searching for solace, inspiration, and reference to the divine.
The Enduring Query of Psalm 40’s Authorship
The exploration of Psalm 40’s authorship reveals the complexities inherent in finding out historic texts. Whereas custom attributes the psalm to King David, definitive proof stays elusive. Scholarly debate continues, specializing in textual evaluation, historic context, literary model, and theological themes. The New Testomony’s use of the psalm in Hebrews 10 provides one other layer to the dialogue, highlighting its christological interpretation inside early Christianity. Regardless of the shortage of definitive solutions, the exploration itself illuminates the psalm’s wealthy historical past of interpretation and its enduring theological significance. Recognizing the continuing scholarly discourse surrounding authorship encourages a nuanced understanding of the psalm’s origins and its multifaceted meanings all through historical past.
The enduring query of authorship in the end underscores the timeless energy of Psalm 40’s message. Whether or not attributed to David or a later poet, the psalm’s themes of struggling, hope, and reliance on divine grace proceed to resonate with people and communities throughout various contexts. Additional analysis and continued engagement with various interpretations will undoubtedly enrich understanding and appreciation of this highly effective and evocative textual content. Its enduring presence inside each non secular and literary traditions testifies to the psalm’s profound impression on human experiences of religion, doubt, and the seek for which means within the face of adversity. This ongoing exploration invitations continued reflection on the psalm’s timeless message and its capability to supply solace, inspiration, and a deeper reference to the divine.
