Names of the Book
English: | Psalms |
Hebrew: | תהלים |
Transliterated: | Tehillim |
Other names: | Book of Praises |
Who
Wrote the book: | David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, Heman, Ethan, Moses, and others who are anonymous |
Are the key people: | David |
Is it written to: | The people of Israel |
What
The book of Psalms is not organized by topic but is a collection of 150 songs that praise G-d and speak of the creation, fall, and redemption of mankind. The Psalms can be organized into five sections that roughly correspond to Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. |
Book 1- (Psalm 1-41) |
Book 2- (Psalm 42-72) |
Book 3- (Psalm 73-89) |
Book 4- (Psalm 90-106) |
Book 5- (Psalm 107-150) |
When
Was it written: | c 1440-250 BCE |
Did the events occur: | c 1440-250 BCE |
Was it canonized: | c 499-100 BCE |
(see the Timeline of the Tanakh) |
Where
Was it written: | various places in Israel |
Did the events occur: | various places in Israel |
Why
Psalms was written to inform us that: |
G-d is worthy of our praise. |
G-d is all-powerful. |
G-d is forgiving. |
G-d deserves our thanks. |
G-d is worthy of our trust. |
Introduction
Psalms is a book of songs, poetry, and prayers many of which are attributed to King David. These expressions of praise, faith, sorrow, and repentance cover the depth and breadth that is the landscape of the human experience. Some of the Psalms dwell on G-d's Law and the treasure that it is while others reveal the troubled heart of the writer. Many of the Psalms overflow with an abundance of praise for G-d and His ways. The diversity of these songs is unified by a single focus: the one true and living G-d. The Psalms glorify G-d as Creator, as King, as Redeemer, and as a refuge for all who trust in Him.
Scripture- Book Selection