Deep Dive into Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary by Steve Bond et al. - Psalms Introduction

The book of Psalms, known in Hebrew as praises, contains 150 songs primarily authored by King David, who wrote approximately half of the collection. Other contributors include Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, Moses, Heman, and Ethan, though nearly 48 psalms remain anonymous. David’s work became the standard followed by others, imprinting a Davidic character on the entire book. These writings span a thousand years, from the era of Moses through the postexilic period, with Ezra likely serving as the final editor. The titles of the psalms are considered ancient and reliable, possibly written by the authors themselves. The collection is organized into five distinct books mirroring the Pentateuch, with each section concluding with a doxology. These psalms served as the liturgical hymnbook for Israel, providing a model for worship by internalizing Old Testament law.

Scholars categorize these poems into various forms, including laments, hymns, and songs of thanksgiving,. Laments serve as cries to God during distress, whereas thanksgiving psalms are responses to liberation,. Other types include royal psalms concerning the earthly king, enthronement psalms celebrating Yahweh's sovereignty, and wisdom psalms exploring theodicy or the Torah,. To assist with memorization, some psalms utilize acrostic patterns based on the Hebrew alphabet.

Theologically, the book affirms monotheism and explores divine attributes such as omniscience, holiness, and goodness while condemning atheism as foolishness. It addresses human sinfulness and the necessity of repentance through penitential psalms. Notably, the collection includes imprecatory prayers seeking divine justice and messianic psalms that point toward the incarnation, suffering, and resurrection of Christ,. Ultimately, the book remains a vital source of instruction and comfort, teaching God's people how to serve and glorify Him forever.

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