Deep Dive into Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible by David Brown, A. R. Fausset, and Robert Jamieson - Psalm Introduction

The book of Psalms, known in Hebrew as $Tehilim$, meaning “praises” or “hymns,” is fundamentally a collection of religious lyrics designed for sanctuary worship. The Greek title, $psalmoi$, used in the Septuagint, corresponds to the Hebrew word $mizmoi$. Both terms signify an ode or song accompanied by an instrument, particularly the harp. The collection of 150 Psalms is historically organized into five books, corresponding to the Five Books of Moses, though attempts to find critical value in this structure have been unsuccessful.

The authorship of the Psalms anchors the book in the spiritual history of Israel, centered primarily on King David. David, who appointed 288 Levites for music, including Asaph and the sons of Korah, is the most prolific author and the only one named in the New Testament. Other authors include Moses (Psalm 90) and Solomon. The critical value of the titles or inscriptions is debated, as some writers point out that early Greek and Syriac translators disregarded, altered, or supplied them, sometimes leading to inconsistency with the Psalm’s subject matter.

Theologically and experientially, the Psalms are foundational. They detail God’s nature, attributes, and the doctrines of the covenant of grace. Their devotional character is paramount, laying open the entire inner life of the pious, covering spiritual conflicts, griefs, faith, and joy. Crucially, the Psalms function as a vehicle for prophecy due to David’s role as the lineal ancestor and type of the Messiah. David’s language, inspired by the Spirit, describes suffering and triumph that ultimately find their full meaning in Christ’s incarnation, persecution, death, resurrection, and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. This inspired liturgy has served as a guide for prayer and praise across all Christian lands and creeds for nearly three thousand years.

Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologian

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