A Psalms is a poem which is typically set to music. In fact, some of the psalms give instructions for the musicians (ie. Psalm 4:1, “To the Chief Musician. With stringed instruments. A Psalm of David.).
There are 150 psalms in the book of Psalms. Several of them are labeled as psalms of David (73), the “…sweet psalmist of Israel…” (2 Samuel 23:1). Others are associated with Asaph (12), the sons of Korah (11), Solomon (2), Moses (1), and Ethan (1). The other 50 psalms do not have names linked to them.
The Psalms touch on a wide array of information and topics. They recount historical events, reveal prophecies, and focus on the gamut of the human experience. They explore various characteristics of God and His relationship to humanity. They look at man’s trials and troubles and the loneliness and despair one might experience, but also the elation of praise and worship before God in whom we can trust and find refuge. Several of David’s psalms begin with anguish, gloom and sorrow, but end with comfort, joy and victory.
Several of the psalms are messianic. They foreshadow our Lord’s death and resurrection; they speak of the establishment of the Lord’s kingdom and focus on His triumphant reign; they promise the hope of immortality.
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