Psalms

Purpose
The book of Psalms is an anthology of songs and poems used for worship in ancient Israel. It can be thought of as their hymnal and prayer book. There is a psalm for just about any situation in lifepublic or private, formal or informal, happy or sad. Regardless of the occasion, each Psalms focus is to place the situation into the broader scope of Gods plan, demonstrating how He can be worshipped in any circumstance.

Authorship & Genre

The Psalms were written by many different individuals throughout history. David is perhaps the most well-known Psalmist (receiving credit for 73 psalms), but others include Solomon, Asaph, Heman, Ethan, and the Sons of Korah. Moses is the earliest recorded author (Ps. 80), and some Psalms were written during or after the captivity (e.g. Ps. 137). Psalms are poetry by definition, and many different subcategories are observed below.

Common Categories of Psalms

Category Praise Description Proclaims Gods greatness for His character or actions (creation; acts on Israels behalf). Wisdom Emphasizes the importance fearing God and studying His law in order to successfully navigate the path of life. Lament Cries out to God because of suffering, sin, or injustice, looking to God for deliverance. Thanksgiving Praise God for His specific acts in day-to-day life. Royal Focus on Gods covenant with David and the responsibilities of Israels king (i.e., Messiah). Pilgrim Sung during Israelites pilgrimages for encouragement and focus on their goal of worship in Zion. Enthronement Focus on Gods role as King of the Universe, and the responsibility of all Creation to worship Him accordingly. Example Psalm 104 Psalm 49 Psalm 13 Psalm 116 Psalm 2 Psalm 121 Psalm 47

Theological Themes
Kingship: God is King of the Universe and deserves all worship. Moreover, He has appointed His representative on earth, the Son of David, to restore Creation under His perfect rule. Nature/Creation: Gods acts in nature reveal His power and are one of the most frequent topics of the praise psalms. Worship: The psalms reveal opportunities for worshipping God in any occasion of life. Since God is King, He deserves to be acknowledged in everything we do. Lament: God can be worshipped in the good and the bad. Worship does not always equal praisesometimes the best way to worship God is to tell Him whats wrong.