Psalms

Books of the Psalms

1. Psalms 1 to 41

- Most of these are attributed to David.

- The Divine Name (LORD) is used more often than El or Elohim.

Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel,

from all eternity and forever.

Amen. Amen. (41:14)

2. Psalms 42 to 72

- 31 psalms.

- 18 attributed to David

- 1 to Solomon (72)

- 8 to sons of Korah

- 5 unattributed

- El or Elohim is used more often than the Divine Name.

Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel,

who alone does wonderful deeds.

Blessed be his glorious name forever;

may he fill all the earth with his glory.

Amen and amen.

The end of the psalms of David, son of Jesse. (72:18-20)

3. Psalms 73 to 89

- 17 psalms.

- Most attributed to Asaph.

- Psalm 86 is attributed to David, 88 to Heman the Ezraite, and 89 to Ethan the Ezraite.

- El or Elohim is used more often than the Divine Name.

Blessed be the LORD forever! Amen and amen! (89:53)

4. Psalms 90 to 106

- 17 psalms.

- All anonymous except for Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, and Psalms 101 and 103 attributed to David.

- The Divine Name (LORD) is used more often than El or Elohim.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,

from everlasting to everlasting!

Let all the people say, Amen!

Hallelujah! (106:48)

5. Psalms 107 to 150

- 44 psalms.

- The Divine Name (LORD) is used more often than El or Elohim.

I have given the titles of the Psalms as in the New American Bible Revised Edition.

1. Psalms 1 to 41

Psalm 1

TNK

True Happiness in God's Law
attributed to:	n/a
date composed:	Second Temple?
date of events:	n/a
genres:	wisdom, torah
comments:	Deliberately composed as a preface to the Psalter?

Books of the Psalms

1. Psalms 1 to 41

- Most of these are attributed to David.

- The Divine Name (LORD) is used more often than El or Elohim.

Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel,

from all eternity and forever.

Amen. Amen. (41:14)

2. Psalms 42 to 72

- 31 psalms.

- 18 attributed to David

- 1 to Solomon (72)

- 8 to sons of Korah

- 5 unattributed

- El or Elohim is used more often than the Divine Name.

Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel,

who alone does wonderful deeds.

Blessed be his glorious name forever;

may he fill all the earth with his glory.

Amen and amen.

The end of the psalms of David, son of Jesse. (72:18-20)

3. Psalms 73 to 89

- 17 psalms.

- Most attributed to Asaph.

- Psalm 86 is attributed to David, 88 to Heman the Ezraite, and 89 to Ethan the Ezraite.

- El or Elohim is used more often than the Divine Name.

Blessed be the LORD forever! Amen and amen! (89:53)

4. Psalms 90 to 106

- 17 psalms.

- All anonymous except for Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, and Psalms 101 and 103 attributed to David.

- The Divine Name (LORD) is used more often than El or Elohim.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,

from everlasting to everlasting!

Let all the people say, Amen!

Hallelujah! (106:48)

5. Psalms 107 to 150

- 44 psalms.

- The Divine Name (LORD) is used more often than El or Elohim.

I have given the titles of the Psalms as in the New American Bible Revised Edition.

1. Psalms 1 to 41

Psalm 1

TNK

True Happiness in God's Law
attributed to:	n/a
date composed:	Second Temple?
date of events:	n/a
genres:	wisdom, torah
comments:	Deliberately composed as a preface to the Psalter?

Psalm 2

TNK

A Psalm for a Royal Coronation
attributed to:	A king of Israel: "I will proclaim the decree of the LORD; he said to me, 'You are my son; today I have begotten you.'"
date composed:	United Kingdom of Israel?
date of events:	On the day of the anointing of a King? Future: when the King of Israel reigns over all kings.
genres:	royal, Messianic
comments:	NAB: "Anointed: in Hebrew mashiah, “anointed”; in Greek christos, whence English Messiah and Christ. In Israel kings (Jgs 9:8; 1 Sm 9:16; 16:12–13) and high priests (Lv 8:12; Nm 3:3) received the power of their office through anointing."

Psalm 3

TNK

Threatened but Trusting
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	war with Absalom
genres:	lament
comments:	"A psalm of David, when he fled from his son Absalom" (2 Samuel 15:14–16).

Psalm 4

TNK

Trust in God
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	individual lament emphasizing trust in God.
comments:	"A psalm of David." "In peace I will lie down and fall asleep, for you alone, LORD, make me secure" (9).

Psalm 5

TNK

Prayer for Divine Help
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 6

TNK

Prayer in Distress
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	penitential lament
comments:	"A psalm of David." "For in death there is no remembrance of you. Who praises you in Sheol?" (6). NAB: "A motive for God to preserve the psalmist from death: in the shadowy world of the dead no one offers you praise. Sheol is the biblical term for the underworld where the insubstantial souls of dead human beings dwelt. It was similar to the Hades of Greek and Latin literature. In the second century B.C., biblical books begin to speak positively of life with God after death (Dn 12:1–3; Wis 3)." xref: Isaiah 38:18-19, Psalm 49:14-16. NAB: "The psalmist does not, as in many laments, claim to be innocent but appeals to God’s mercy (Ps 6:5)."

Psalm 7

TNK

God the Vindicator
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during war with Saul?
genres:	individual lament
comments:	"A plaintive song [shiggayon] of David, which he sang to the LORD concerning Cush, the Benjaminite." Wikipedia: This Cush is mentioned only in this psalm and "is believed to be a follower of Saul." "God is a just judge, powerful and patient, not exercising anger every day" (12).

Psalm 8

TNK

Divine Majesty and Human Dignity
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	David's reign
genres:	creation meditation
comments:	"A psalm of David." "What is man that you are mindful of him, and a son of man that you care for him? Yet you have made him little less than a god, crowned him with glory and honor" (5-6).

Psalm 9

TNK

Thanksgiving for Victory and Prayer for Justice
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	NAB: "Ps 9 and Ps 10 in the Hebrew text have been transmitted as separate poems but they actually form a single acrostic poem and are so transmitted in the Greek and Latin tradition. Each verse of the two Psalms begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet (though several letters have no corresponding stanza)."
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 10

TNK

Psalm 9 continued
attributed to:	Should be counted as part of Psalm 9, therefore would be attributed to David.
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	NAB fn to Psalm 9: Ps 9 and Ps 10 in the Hebrew text have been transmitted as separate poems but they actually form a single acrostic poem and are so transmitted in the Greek and Latin tradition. Each verse of the two Psalms begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet (though several letters have no corresponding stanza).
comments:

Psalm 11

TNK

Confidence in the Presence of God
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	song of trust
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 12

TNK

Prayer against Evil Tongues
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 13

TNK

Prayer for Help
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	NAB: A typical lament, in which the psalmist feels forgotten by God (Ps 13:2-3). ... The heartfelt prayer (Ps 13:4–5) passes on a statement of trust (Ps 13:6a), intended to reinforce the prayer, and a vow to thank God when deliverance has come (Ps 13:6b).
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 14

TNK

A Lament over Widespread Corruption
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament; wisdom literature? NAB: The lament (duplicated in Ps 53) depicts the world as consisting of two types of people: “the fool” (equals the wicked, Ps 14:1–3) and “the company of the just” (Ps 14:4–6; also called “my people,” and “the poor”). The wicked persecute the just, but the Psalm expresses the hope that God will punish the wicked and reward the good.
comments:	"Of David." All have gone astray; all alike are perverse. Not one does what is good, not even one. (3)

Psalm 15

TNK

The Religious Israelite
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	NAB: "A liturgical scrutiny at the entrance to the Temple court."
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 16

TNK

God the Supreme Good
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A miktam of David."

Psalm 17

TNK

Prayer for Rescue from Persecutors
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	individual lament
comments:	"A prayer of David." "Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings."

Psalm 18

TNK

A King's Thanksgiving for Victory
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	at the end of the war with Saul?
genres:	A royal thanksgiving for a military victory, duplicated in 2 Sm 22.
comments:	"Of David, the servant of the LORD, who sang to the LORD the words of this song after the LORD had rescued him from the clutches of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul" (1 Samuel 24:11–12). I believe the opening statement, "I love you," is rare in the Scriptures. I heard this in one of my Hebrew classes, but have no other source for the claim at the moment.

Psalm 19

TNK

God's Glory in the Heavens and in the Law
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	creation, torah, wisdom (?)
comments:	"A psalm of David." He has pitched in them a tent for the sun; it comes forth like a bridegroom from his canopy, and like a hero joyfully runs its course" (5-6).

Psalm 20

TNK

Prayer for the King in Time of War
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	for the king
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 21

TNK

Thanksgiving and Assurances for the King
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	royal, thanksgiving, confidence
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 22

TNK

The Prayer of an Innocent Person
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament, confidence, praise
comments:	"A psalm of David." Applied to Jesus' suffering on the Cross (Mk 15:34, Mt 27:46): "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?"

Psalm 23

TNK

The Lord, Shepherd and Host
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 24

TNK

The Glory of God in Procession to Zion
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of David." NAB: The Psalm apparently accompanied a ceremony of the entry of God (invisibly enthroned upon the ark), followed by the people, into the Temple. The Temple commemorated the creation of the world (Ps 24:1–2). The people had to affirm their fidelity before being admitted into the sanctuary (Ps 24:3–6; cf. Ps 15). A choir identifies the approaching God and invites the very Temple gates to bow down in obeisance (Ps 24:7–10).

Psalm 25

TNK

Confident Prayer for Forgiveness and Guidance
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	NAB: A lament. Each verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Such acrostic Psalms are often a series of statements only loosely connected. The psalmist mixes ardent pleas (Ps 25:1–2, 16–22) with expressions of confidence in God who forgives and guides. A final verse beginning with the Hebrew letter pe is added to the normal 22-letter alphabet. Thus the letters aleph, lamed, and pe open the first, middle (Ps 25:11), and last lines of the Psalm. Together, they spell aleph, the first letter of the alphabet, from a Hebrew root that means “to learn.”
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 26

TNK

Prayer of Innocence
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	liturgical--washing before entering the Temple: "I will wash my hands* in innocence so that I may process around your altar, Lord" (6).
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 27

TNK

Trust in God
attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"Of David." "One thing I ask of the LORD; this I seek: To dwell in the LORD’s house all the days of my life, To gaze on the LORD’s beauty, to visit his temple" (4). NAB: Tradition has handed down the two sections of the Psalm (Ps 27:1–6; 7–14) as one Psalm, though each part could be understood as complete in itself. Asserting boundless hope that God will bring rescue (Ps 27:1–3), the psalmist longs for the presence of God in the Temple, protection from all enemies (Ps 27:4–6). In part B there is a clear shift in tone (Ps 27:7–12); the climax of the poem comes with “I believe” (Ps 27:13), echoing “I trust” (Ps 27:3).

Psalm 28

TNK

Petition and Thanksgiving
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament, thanksgiving
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 29

TNK

The Lord of Majesty Acclaimed as King of the World
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of David." "Give to the LORD, you sons of God, give to the LORD glory and might" (1). Thunder: "voice of the LORD." "The LORD sis enthroned above the flood!" (10).

Psalm 30

TNK

Thanksgiving for Deliverance
attributed to:	David
date composed:	First or Second Temple period? The psalm itself says that it is "a song for the dedication of the Temple." Solomon's Temple (the First Temple) was built long after David's death; the Second Temple, of course, is post-exilic (sixth-century BC).
date of events:	164 BC: purification of the Temple by the Maccabees.
genres:	individual thanksgiving, adapted for the cleansing of the Second Temple
comments:	"A psalm. A song for the dedication of the Temple. Of David." "What gain is there from my lifeblood, from my going down to the grave? Does dust give you thanks or declare your faithfulness?" (10). "At dusk weeping comes for the night; but at dawn there is rejoicing" (6).

Psalm 31

TNK

Prayer in Distress and Thanksgiving for Escape
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament, declaration of trust, thanksgiving
comments:	"A psalm of David." "Into your hands I commend my spirit" (6).

Psalm 32

TNK

Remission of Sin
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during David's reign
genres:	penitential lament; thanksgiving
comments:	Some associate this with David being forgiven for his sins against Uriah (2 Samuel 12:13–14). Nothing in the text confirms or denies that association.

Psalm 33

TNK

Praise of God's Power and Providence
attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	creation (heavens, waters, earth--verses 6-9)
comments:	"By the LORD’s word the heavens were made; by the breath of his mouth all their host" (6). "For he spoke, and it came to be, commanded, and it stood in place" (9). "A vain hope for safety is the horse" (17).

Psalm 34

TNK

Thanksgiving to God Who Delivers the Just
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during war with Saul
genres:	NAB: A thanksgiving in acrostic form, each line beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. In this Psalm one letter is missing and two are in reverse order.
comments:	"When he feigned madness before Abimelech [Achish]], who drove him out and he went away" (1 Samuel 21:13).

Psalm 35

TNK

Prayer for Help against Unjust Enemies
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament of a person betrayed by friends
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 36

TNK

Human Wickedness and Divine Providence
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	post-exilic?
genres:	wisdom, hymn, lament
comments:	"Of David, the servant of the LORD."

Psalm 37

TNK

The Fate of Sinners and the Reward of the Just
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	post-exilic?
genres:	acrostic, theodicy
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 38

TNK

Prayer of an Afflicted Sinner
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	penitential lament
comments:	"A psalm of David. For remembrance."

Psalm 39

TNK

The Vanity of Life
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament of a mortally ill person
comments:	"For the leader, for Jeduthun. A psalm of David." "Turn your gaze from me, that I may smile before I depart to be no more" (14).

Psalm 40

TNK

Gratitude and Prayer for Help
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	thanksgiving (2-13) combined with lament (14-17)
comments:	"A psalm of David." "Sacrifice and offering you do not want; you opened my ears. Holocaust and sin-offering you do not request" (7). NAB: Psalm 70 is "almost identical to Ps 40:14–17."

Psalm 41

TNK

Thanksgiving after Sickness :
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	thanksgiving for rescue from illness
comments:	"A psalm of David." "Even my trusted friend, who ate my bread, has raised his heel against me" (10). Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, from all eternity and forever. Amen. Amen. (14)

2. Psalms 42 to 72

Psalm 42

TNK

Longing for God's Presence in the Temple :
attributed to:	The Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	"A maskil of the Korahites." "As the deer longs for streams of water, so my soul longs for you, O God" (42). NAB: Ps 42–43 form a single lament of three sections, each section ending in an identical refrain (Ps 42:6, 12; 43:5). The psalmist is far from Jerusalem, and longs for the divine presence that Israel experienced in the Temple liturgy. Despite sadness, the psalmist hopes once again to join the worshiping crowds. Why are you downcast, my soul; why do you groan within me? Wait for God, for I shall again praise him, my savior and my God.

Psalm 43

TNK

Psalm 42 continued :
attributed to:	If part of Ps 42, then the Korahites.
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	NAB: Ps 42–43 form a single lament of three sections, each section ending in an identical refrain (Ps 42:6, 12; 43:5). Why are you downcast, my soul; why do you groan within me? Wait for God, for I shall again praise him, my savior and my God.

Psalm 44

TNK

God's Past Favor and Israel's Present Need
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:	in exile or post-exilic?
date of events:	586 BC?
genres:	community lament, history
comments:	"A maskil of the Korahites." "Awake! Why do you sleep, O Lord?" (24).

Psalm 45

TNK

Song for a Royal Wedding
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:
date of events:	A song for the Davidic king’s marriage to a foreign princess from Tyre in Phoenicia.
genres:	royal, Messianic
comments:	"For the leader; according to 'Lilies.' A maskil of the Korahites. A love song." NAB commentary on verse 7, "O God": the king, in courtly language, is called “god,” i.e., more than human, representing God to the people. Heb 1:8–9 applies Ps 45:7–8 to Christ.

Psalm 46

TNK

God, the Protector of Zion
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	song of confidence
comments:	"A song of the Korahites. According to alamoth." NAB comment on verse 5: Jerusalem is not situated on a river. This description derives from mythological descriptions of the divine abode and symbolizes the divine presence as the source of all life (cf. Is 33:21; Ez 47:1–12; Jl 4:18; Zec 14:8; Rev 22:1–2). Streams of the river gladden the city of God, the holy dwelling of the Most High. (5) "Be still and know that I am God!" (11)

Psalm 47

TNK

The Ruler of All the Nations
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	hymn praising God as King of Israel
comments:	"A psalm of the Korahites."

Psalm 48

TNK

The Splendor of the Invincible City
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	Zion hymn
comments:	"A psalm of the Korahites."

Psalm 49

TNK

Confidence in God Rather than in Riches
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:	Second Temple?
date of events:
genres:	confidence, wisdom
comments:	"A psalm of the Korahites."

Psalm 50

TNK

The Acceptable Sacrifice
attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	covenant lawsuit
comments:	A psalm of Asaph. 9 I will not take a bullock from your house, or he-goats from your folds. 10 For every animal of the forest is mine, beasts by the thousands on my mountains. 11 I know every bird in the heights; whatever moves in the wild is mine. 12 Were I hungry, I would not tell you, for mine is the world and all that fills it. 13 Do I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of he-goats? 14 Offer praise as your sacrifice to God; fulfill your vows to the Most High. 15 Then call on me on the day of distress; I will rescue you, and you shall honor me.

Psalm 51

TNK

The Miserere Prayer of Repentance
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during David's reign
genres:	penitential lament
comments:	"A psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came to him after he had gone in to Bathsheba" (2 Samuel 12:13–14).

Psalm 52

TNK

The Deceitful Tongue
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during the war with Saul
genres:	NAB: A condemnation of the powerful and arrogant (Ps 52:3–6), who bring down upon themselves God’s judgment (Ps 52:7).
comments:	"A maskil of David, when Doeg the Edomite entered and reported to Saul, saying to him: 'David has entered the house of Ahimelech'"(1 Samuel 22:9).

Psalm 53

TNK

A Lament over Widespread Corruption
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	individual lament NAB: A lament of an individual, duplicated in Ps 14, except that “God” is used for “the LORD,” and Ps 53:6 is different, cf. Ps 14.
comments:	"For the leader; according to Mahalath. A maskil of David." All have gone astray; each one is altogether perverse. There is not one who does what is good, not even one. (4)

Psalm 54

TNK

Confiden Prayer in Great Peril
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during the war with Saul
genres:	lament
comments:	"A maskil of David, when the Ziphites came and said to Saul, 'David is hiding among us.'" (1 Samuel 23:19).

Psalm 55

TNK

A Lament over Betrayal
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	individual lament
comments:	"For the leader. On stringed instruments. A maskil of David." "I rock with grief" (3). I say, “If only I had wings like a dove that I might fly away and find rest. Far away I would flee; I would stay in the desert. “I would soon find a shelter from the raging wind and storm.” (7-9) For it is not an enemy that reviled me – that I could bear – Not a foe who viewed me with contempt, from that I could hide. But it was you, my other self, my comrade and friend, You, whose company I enjoyed, at whose side I walked in the house of God. (13-15) Cast your care upon the LORD, who will give you support. He will never allow the righteous to stumble. (23) NAB: The wish for a sudden death for one’s enemies (Ps 55:16) occurs elsewhere in the Psalms; an example of such a death is the earth opening under the wicked Dathan and Abiram (Nm 16:31–32). ... The Psalm is not so much for personal vengeance as for a public vindication of God’s righteousness now. There was no belief in an afterlife where such vindication could take place.

Psalm 56

TNK

Trust in God
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during war with Saul
genres:
comments:	"A miktam of David, when the Philistines seized him at Gath" (1 Samuel 21:10). NAB: "Are my tears not stored in your flask?" is a unique saying in the Old Testament. The context suggests that the tears are saved because they are precious; God puts a high value on each of the psalmist’s troubles.

Psalm 57

TNK

Confident Prayer for Deliverance
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during the war with Saul
genres:
comments:	"A miktam of David, when he fled from Saul into a cave" (1 Samuel 24:1).

Psalm 58

TNK

The Dethroning of Unjust Rulers
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament, confidence in God's power
comments:	"For the leader. Do not destroy. A miktam of David." O God, smash the teeth in their mouths; break the fangs of these lions, LORD! (7)

Psalm 59

TNK

Complaint against Bloodthirsty Enemies
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during Saul's reign
genres:	lament
comments:	"A miktam of David, when Saul sent people to watch his house and kill him" (1 Sm 19:11).

Psalm 60

TNK

Lament after Defeat in Battle
attributed to:	David
date composed:	After destruction of Northern Kingdom?
date of events:	During David's reign
genres:	community lament
comments:	"For the leader; according to “The Lily of.…” A miktam of David (for teaching), when he fought against Aram-Naharaim and Aram-Zobah; and Joab, coming back, killed twelve thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt." NAB: 2 Sm 8:2, 3, 13; 1 Chr 18:2, 3, 12. NAB: [60:7–12] These verses occur again as the second half of Ps 108.

Psalm 61

TNK

Prayer of the King in Time of Danger
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	royal lament
comments:	"For the leader; with stringed instruments. Of David."

Psalm 62

TNK

Trust in God Alone
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	confidence
comments:	"For the leader; ‘al Jeduthun. A psalm of David." One thing God has said; two things I have heard: Strength belongs to God; so too, my Lord, does mercy, For you repay each man according to his deeds. (12-13) NAB: [62:12] One thing…two things: parallelism of numbers for the sake of variation, a common device in Semitic poetry. One should not literally add up the numbers, cf. Am 1:3; Prv 6:16–19; 30:15, 18, 21.

Psalm 63

TNK

Ardent Longing for God
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during war with Absalom
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness of Judah" (2 Samuel 16:2).

Psalm 64

TNK

Treacherous Conspirators Punished by God
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament of a righteous person
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 65

TNK

Thanksgiving for God's Blessings
attributed to:	David
date composed:	First Temple
date of events:
genres:	thanksgiving, creation
comments:	"A psalm of David. A song."

Psalm 66

TNK

Praise of God, Israel's Deliverer
attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	communal and invidual thanksgiving
comments:	"A song; a psalm." You tested us, O God, tried us as silver tried by fire. You led us into a snare; you bound us at the waist as captives. You let captors set foot on our neck; we went through fire and water; then you led us out to freedom. (10-12)

Psalm 67

TNK

Harvest Thanks and Petition
attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	petition for a bountiful harvest
comments:	"For the leader; with stringed instruments. A psalm; a song."

Psalm 68

TNK

The Exodus and Conquest, Pledge of Future Help
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	thanksgiving, confidence
comments:	"A psalm of David; a song." NAB: The translation assumes the Psalm accompanied the early autumn Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkoth), which included a procession of the tribes (Ps 68:25–28).

Psalm 69

TNK

A Cry of Anguish in Great Distress
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	"For the leader; according to 'Lilies.' Of David." NAB: The Psalm prays not so much for personal vengeance as for public vindication of God’s justice. There was, at this time, no belief in an afterlife where such vindication could take place. Redress had to take place now, in the sight of all. Insult has broken my heart, and I despair; I looked for compassion, but there was none, for comforters, but found none. Instead they gave me poison for my food; and for my thirst they gave me vinegar. (21-22)

Psalm 70

TNK

Prayer for Divine Help
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	"For the leader; of David. For remembrance." NAB: The Psalm is almost identical to Ps 40:14–17.

Psalm 71

TNK

Prayer in Time of Old Age
attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	"Lament of an old person whose afflictions are interpreted by enemies as divine judgment" (NAB), confidence, hope and praise
comments:	Bring to a shameful end those who attack me; Cover with contempt and scorn those who seek my ruin. (13)

Psalm 72

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	royal psalm
comments:	"Of Solomon." May the kings of Tarshish and the islands bring tribute, the kings of Sheba and Seba offer gifts. (10) May his name be forever; as long as the sun, may his name endure. May the tribes of the earth give blessings with his name; may all the nations regard him as favored. Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who alone does wonderful deeds. Blessed be his glorious name forever; may he fill all the earth with his glory. Amen and amen. The end of the psalms of David, son of Jesse. (17-20)

3. Psalms 73 to 89

Psalm 73

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	righteous vs. wicked (wisdom?); theodicy?
comments:	"A psalm of Asaph."

Psalm 74

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:	In exile?
date of events:	destruction of First Temple
genres:	communal lament "especially appropriate at the destruction of Jerusalem in 587 B.C."; creation
comments:	"A maskil of Asaph."

Psalm 75

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	thanksgiving, confidence
comments:	"For the leader. Do not destroy! A psalm of Asaph; a song."

Psalm 76

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"For the leader; a psalm with stringed instruments. A song of Asaph." NAB: A song glorifying Zion, the mountain of Jerusalem where God destroyed Israel’s enemies. Zion is thus the appropriate site to celebrate the victory (Ps 76:3–4), a victory described in parallel scenes (Ps 76:5–7, 8–11). Israel is invited to worship its powerful patron deity (Ps 76:12).

Psalm 77

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:	exile? post-exilic?
date of events:
genres:	community lament, creation, trust
comments:	"For the leader; According to Jeduthun. A psalm of Asaph." NAB: The question is thus posed to God: Will you allow the people you created to be destroyed? I consider the days of old; the years long past I remember. At night I ponder in my heart; and as I meditate, my spirit probes: “Will the Lord reject us forever, never again show favor? Has God’s mercy ceased forever? The promise to go unfulfilled for future ages? Has God forgotten how to show mercy, in anger withheld his compassion?” (6-10)

Psalm 78

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:	8th BC? 7th BC? post-exilic?
date of events:	Moses to David? NAB: While the Psalm has been thought to reflect the reunification program of either King Hezekiah (late eighth century) or King Josiah (late seventh century) in that the Northern Kingdom (Ephraim, Joseph) is especially invited to accept Zion and the Davidic king, a postexilic setting is also possible. Notable is the inclusion of the David-Zion tradition into the history of Israel recounted in the sources of the Pentateuch.
genres:	pondering history as a parable for the present
comments:	"A maskil of Asaph." He gave up his might into captivity, his glorious ark into the hands of the foe. (61)

Psalm 79

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:	exile? post-exilic?
date of events:	destruction of Temple in 587 BC
genres:	communal lament
comments:	"A psalm of Asaph."

Psalm 80

TNK

Asaph
attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"For the leader; according to 'Lilies.' Eduth. A psalm of Asaph."

Psalm 81

TNK

Asaph
attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 82

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 83

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 84

TNK

attributed to:	A psalm of the Korahites.
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of the Korahites."

Psalm 85

TNK

attributed to:	The Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	A psalm of the Korahites.

Psalm 86

TNK

attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 87

TNK

attributed to:	The Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of the Korahites. A song."

Psalm 88

TNK

attributed to:	The Korahites (Heman the Ezraite?).
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	:A song; a psalm of the Korahites. For the leader; according to Mahalath. For singing; a maskil of Heman the Ezrahite."

Psalm 89

TNK

attributed to:	Ethan the Ezrahite
date composed:
date of events:	Destruction of Jerusalem and Temple by the Babylonians.
genres:	community lament
comments:	"A maskil of Ethan the Ezrahite." "Blessed be the LORD forever! Amen and amen!" (53).

4. Psalms 90 to 106

Psalm 90

TNK

attributed to:	Moses
date composed:	during or after Exile?
date of events:	Exodus
genres:	communal lament: Seventy is the sum of our years, or eighty, if we are strong; Most of them are toil and sorrow; they pass quickly, and we are gone. (10)
comments:	"A prayer of Moses, the man of God."

Psalm 91

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 92

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 93

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 94

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 95

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 96

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 97

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 98

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 99

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 100

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 101

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 102

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:	After loss of Northern Kingdom? During or after Exile? "The nations shall fear your name, LORD, all the kings of the earth, your glory, Once the LORD has rebuilt Zion" (16-17).
genres:	penitential lament
comments:	"The prayer of one afflicted and wasting away whose anguish is poured out before the LORD."

Psalm 103

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 104

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 105

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 106

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

5. Psalms 107 to 150

Psalm 107

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 108

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 109

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 110

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 111

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 112

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 113

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 114

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 115

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 116

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 117

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 118

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 119

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 120

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 121

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 122

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 123

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 124

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 125

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 126

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:	return from Exile
genres:
comments:

Psalm 127

TNK

attributed to:	Solomon
date composed:	post-exilic?
date of events:
genres:	wisdom
comments:	"A song of ascents. Of Solomon." Unless the LORD build the house, they labor in vain who build. Unless the LORD guard the city, in vain does the guard keep watch. It is vain for you to rise early and put off your rest at night, To eat bread earned by hard toil— all this God gives to his beloved in sleep. (1-2)

Psalm 128

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 129

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 130

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	penitential lament, pilgrimage
comments:	* "A song of ascents." "Out of the depths I call to you, LORD" (1)--De profundis. "My soul looks for the Lord more than sentinels for daybreak. More than sentinels for daybreak, let Israel hope in the LORD, For with the LORD is mercy, with him is plenteous redemption, And he will redeem Israel from all its sins" (6-8).

Psalm 131

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 132

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 133

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 134

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 135

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 136

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 137

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 138

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 139

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 140

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 141

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 142

TNK

attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during war with Saul
genres:	lament
comments:	"A maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A prayer" (1 Samuel 22:1).

Psalm 143

TNK

attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	penitential lament
comments:	"A psalm of David." "In your mercy put an end to my foes; all those who are oppressing my soul, for I am your servant" (12).

Psalm 144

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 145

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 146

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 147

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 148

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 149

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 150

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Genres

Penitential Psalms

These seven psalms were identified during the seventh century AD as "suitable to express repentance" (NAB, Ps 6).

• Psalm 6
• Psalm 32
• Psalm 38
• Psalm 51
• Psalm 102
• Psalm 130
• Psalm 143

Hebrew Poetry

Duplication: Zech 9:9.

Acrostics

Rhythm?

Assonance?

Alliteration?

Alphabetical structure--Acrostics

Psalm 9 2 verses for each of the 22 Hebrew consonants

Psalm 10 2 verses each

Psalm 25 1 verse each

Psalm 34 1 verse each

Psalm 37 2 verses each

Psalm 111 ½ verse each

Psalm 112 ½ verse each

Psalm 119 8 verses each

Psalm 145 1 verse each

To do?

• Add traditional titles to the psalms?
• Note the daily Psalms from the Temple period
• Note the acrostic psalms in my commentary ...

Links

Psalm 3

Threatened but Trusting TNK
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	war with Absalom
genres:	lament
comments:	"A psalm of David, when he fled from his son Absalom" (2 Samuel 15:14–16).

Psalm 4

TNK

Trust in God
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	individual lament emphasizing trust in God.
comments:	"A psalm of David." "In peace I will lie down and fall asleep, for you alone, LORD, make me secure" (9).

Psalm 5

TNK

Prayer for Divine Help
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 6

TNK

Prayer in Distress
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	penitential lament
comments:	"A psalm of David." "For in death there is no remembrance of you. Who praises you in Sheol?" (6). NAB: "A motive for God to preserve the psalmist from death: in the shadowy world of the dead no one offers you praise. Sheol is the biblical term for the underworld where the insubstantial souls of dead human beings dwelt. It was similar to the Hades of Greek and Latin literature. In the second century B.C., biblical books begin to speak positively of life with God after death (Dn 12:1–3; Wis 3)." xref: Isaiah 38:18-19, Psalm 49:14-16. NAB: "The psalmist does not, as in many laments, claim to be innocent but appeals to God’s mercy (Ps 6:5)."

Psalm 7

TNK

God the Vindicator
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during war with Saul?
genres:	individual lament
comments:	"A plaintive song [shiggayon] of David, which he sang to the LORD concerning Cush, the Benjaminite." Wikipedia: This Cush is mentioned only in this psalm and "is believed to be a follower of Saul." "God is a just judge, powerful and patient, not exercising anger every day" (12).

Psalm 8

TNK

Divine Majesty and Human Dignity
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	David's reign
genres:	creation meditation
comments:	"A psalm of David." "What is man that you are mindful of him, and a son of man that you care for him? Yet you have made him little less than a god, crowned him with glory and honor" (5-6).

Psalm 9

TNK

Thanksgiving for Victory and Prayer for Justice
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	NAB: "Ps 9 and Ps 10 in the Hebrew text have been transmitted as separate poems but they actually form a single acrostic poem and are so transmitted in the Greek and Latin tradition. Each verse of the two Psalms begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet (though several letters have no corresponding stanza)."
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 10

TNK

Psalm 9 continued
attributed to:	Should be counted as part of Psalm 9, therefore would be attributed to David.
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	NAB fn to Psalm 9: Ps 9 and Ps 10 in the Hebrew text have been transmitted as separate poems but they actually form a single acrostic poem and are so transmitted in the Greek and Latin tradition. Each verse of the two Psalms begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet (though several letters have no corresponding stanza).
comments:

Psalm 11

TNK

Confidence in the Presence of God
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	song of trust
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 12

TNK

Prayer against Evil Tongues
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 13

TNK

Prayer for Help
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	NAB: A typical lament, in which the psalmist feels forgotten by God (Ps 13:2-3). ... The heartfelt prayer (Ps 13:4–5) passes on a statement of trust (Ps 13:6a), intended to reinforce the prayer, and a vow to thank God when deliverance has come (Ps 13:6b).
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 14

TNK

A Lament over Widespread Corruption
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament; wisdom literature? NAB: The lament (duplicated in Ps 53) depicts the world as consisting of two types of people: “the fool” (equals the wicked, Ps 14:1–3) and “the company of the just” (Ps 14:4–6; also called “my people,” and “the poor”). The wicked persecute the just, but the Psalm expresses the hope that God will punish the wicked and reward the good.
comments:	"Of David." All have gone astray; all alike are perverse. Not one does what is good, not even one. (3)

Psalm 15

TNK

The Religious Israelite
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	NAB: "A liturgical scrutiny at the entrance to the Temple court."
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 16

TNK

God the Supreme Good
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A miktam of David."

Psalm 17

TNK

Prayer for Rescue from Persecutors
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	individual lament
comments:	"A prayer of David." "Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings."

Psalm 18

TNK

A King's Thanksgiving for Victory
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	at the end of the war with Saul?
genres:	A royal thanksgiving for a military victory, duplicated in 2 Sm 22.
comments:	"Of David, the servant of the LORD, who sang to the LORD the words of this song after the LORD had rescued him from the clutches of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul" (1 Samuel 24:11–12). I believe the opening statement, "I love you," is rare in the Scriptures. I heard this in one of my Hebrew classes, but have no other source for the claim at the moment.

Psalm 19

TNK

God's Glory in the Heavens and in the Law
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	creation, torah, wisdom (?)
comments:	"A psalm of David." He has pitched in them a tent for the sun; it comes forth like a bridegroom from his canopy, and like a hero joyfully runs its course" (5-6).

Psalm 20

TNK

Prayer for the King in Time of War
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	for the king
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 21

TNK

Thanksgiving and Assurances for the King
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	royal, thanksgiving, confidence
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 22

TNK

The Prayer of an Innocent Person
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament, confidence, praise
comments:	"A psalm of David." Applied to Jesus' suffering on the Cross (Mk 15:34, Mt 27:46): "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?"

Psalm 23

TNK

The Lord, Shepherd and Host
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 24

TNK

The Glory of God in Procession to Zion
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of David." NAB: The Psalm apparently accompanied a ceremony of the entry of God (invisibly enthroned upon the ark), followed by the people, into the Temple. The Temple commemorated the creation of the world (Ps 24:1–2). The people had to affirm their fidelity before being admitted into the sanctuary (Ps 24:3–6; cf. Ps 15). A choir identifies the approaching God and invites the very Temple gates to bow down in obeisance (Ps 24:7–10).

Psalm 25

TNK

Confident Prayer for Forgiveness and Guidance
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	NAB: A lament. Each verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Such acrostic Psalms are often a series of statements only loosely connected. The psalmist mixes ardent pleas (Ps 25:1–2, 16–22) with expressions of confidence in God who forgives and guides. A final verse beginning with the Hebrew letter pe is added to the normal 22-letter alphabet. Thus the letters aleph, lamed, and pe open the first, middle (Ps 25:11), and last lines of the Psalm. Together, they spell aleph, the first letter of the alphabet, from a Hebrew root that means “to learn.”
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 26

TNK

Prayer of Innocence
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	liturgical--washing before entering the Temple: "I will wash my hands* in innocence so that I may process around your altar, Lord" (6).
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 27

TNK

Trust in God
attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"Of David." "One thing I ask of the LORD; this I seek: To dwell in the LORD’s house all the days of my life, To gaze on the LORD’s beauty, to visit his temple" (4). NAB: Tradition has handed down the two sections of the Psalm (Ps 27:1–6; 7–14) as one Psalm, though each part could be understood as complete in itself. Asserting boundless hope that God will bring rescue (Ps 27:1–3), the psalmist longs for the presence of God in the Temple, protection from all enemies (Ps 27:4–6). In part B there is a clear shift in tone (Ps 27:7–12); the climax of the poem comes with “I believe” (Ps 27:13), echoing “I trust” (Ps 27:3).

Psalm 28

TNK

Petition and Thanksgiving
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament, thanksgiving
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 29

TNK

The Lord of Majesty Acclaimed as King of the World
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of David." "Give to the LORD, you sons of God, give to the LORD glory and might" (1). Thunder: "voice of the LORD." "The LORD sis enthroned above the flood!" (10).

Psalm 30

TNK

Thanksgiving for Deliverance
attributed to:	David
date composed:	First or Second Temple period? The psalm itself says that it is "a song for the dedication of the Temple." Solomon's Temple (the First Temple) was built long after David's death; the Second Temple, of course, is post-exilic (sixth-century BC).
date of events:	164 BC: purification of the Temple by the Maccabees.
genres:	individual thanksgiving, adapted for the cleansing of the Second Temple
comments:	"A psalm. A song for the dedication of the Temple. Of David." "What gain is there from my lifeblood, from my going down to the grave? Does dust give you thanks or declare your faithfulness?" (10). "At dusk weeping comes for the night; but at dawn there is rejoicing" (6).

Psalm 31

TNK

Prayer in Distress and Thanksgiving for Escape
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament, declaration of trust, thanksgiving
comments:	"A psalm of David." "Into your hands I commend my spirit" (6).

Psalm 32

TNK

Remission of Sin
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during David's reign
genres:	penitential lament; thanksgiving
comments:	Some associate this with David being forgiven for his sins against Uriah (2 Samuel 12:13–14). Nothing in the text confirms or denies that association.

Psalm 33

TNK

Praise of God's Power and Providence
attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	creation (heavens, waters, earth--verses 6-9)
comments:	"By the LORD’s word the heavens were made; by the breath of his mouth all their host" (6). "For he spoke, and it came to be, commanded, and it stood in place" (9). "A vain hope for safety is the horse" (17).

Psalm 34

TNK

Thanksgiving to God Who Delivers the Just
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during war with Saul
genres:	NAB: A thanksgiving in acrostic form, each line beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. In this Psalm one letter is missing and two are in reverse order.
comments:	"When he feigned madness before Abimelech [Achish]], who drove him out and he went away" (1 Samuel 21:13).

Psalm 35

TNK

Prayer for Help against Unjust Enemies
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament of a person betrayed by friends
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 36

TNK

Human Wickedness and Divine Providence
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	post-exilic?
genres:	wisdom, hymn, lament
comments:	"Of David, the servant of the LORD."

Psalm 37

TNK

The Fate of Sinners and the Reward of the Just
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	post-exilic?
genres:	acrostic, theodicy
comments:	"Of David."

Psalm 38

TNK

Prayer of an Afflicted Sinner
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	penitential lament
comments:	"A psalm of David. For remembrance."

Psalm 39

TNK

The Vanity of Life
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament of a mortally ill person
comments:	"For the leader, for Jeduthun. A psalm of David." "Turn your gaze from me, that I may smile before I depart to be no more" (14).

Psalm 40

TNK

Gratitude and Prayer for Help
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	thanksgiving (2-13) combined with lament (14-17)
comments:	"A psalm of David." "Sacrifice and offering you do not want; you opened my ears. Holocaust and sin-offering you do not request" (7). NAB: Psalm 70 is "almost identical to Ps 40:14–17."

Psalm 41

TNK

Thanksgiving after Sickness :
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	thanksgiving for rescue from illness
comments:	"A psalm of David." "Even my trusted friend, who ate my bread, has raised his heel against me" (10). Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, from all eternity and forever. Amen. Amen. (14)

2. Psalms 42 to 72

Psalm 42

TNK

Longing for God's Presence in the Temple :
attributed to:	The Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	"A maskil of the Korahites." "As the deer longs for streams of water, so my soul longs for you, O God" (42). NAB: Ps 42–43 form a single lament of three sections, each section ending in an identical refrain (Ps 42:6, 12; 43:5). The psalmist is far from Jerusalem, and longs for the divine presence that Israel experienced in the Temple liturgy. Despite sadness, the psalmist hopes once again to join the worshiping crowds. Why are you downcast, my soul; why do you groan within me? Wait for God, for I shall again praise him, my savior and my God.

Psalm 43

TNK

Psalm 42 continued :
attributed to:	If part of Ps 42, then the Korahites.
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	NAB: Ps 42–43 form a single lament of three sections, each section ending in an identical refrain (Ps 42:6, 12; 43:5). Why are you downcast, my soul; why do you groan within me? Wait for God, for I shall again praise him, my savior and my God.

Psalm 44

TNK

God's Past Favor and Israel's Present Need
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:	in exile or post-exilic?
date of events:	586 BC?
genres:	community lament, history
comments:	"A maskil of the Korahites." "Awake! Why do you sleep, O Lord?" (24).

Psalm 45

TNK

Song for a Royal Wedding
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:
date of events:	A song for the Davidic king’s marriage to a foreign princess from Tyre in Phoenicia.
genres:	royal, Messianic
comments:	"For the leader; according to 'Lilies.' A maskil of the Korahites. A love song." NAB commentary on verse 7, "O God": the king, in courtly language, is called “god,” i.e., more than human, representing God to the people. Heb 1:8–9 applies Ps 45:7–8 to Christ.

Psalm 46

TNK

God, the Protector of Zion
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	song of confidence
comments:	"A song of the Korahites. According to alamoth." NAB comment on verse 5: Jerusalem is not situated on a river. This description derives from mythological descriptions of the divine abode and symbolizes the divine presence as the source of all life (cf. Is 33:21; Ez 47:1–12; Jl 4:18; Zec 14:8; Rev 22:1–2). Streams of the river gladden the city of God, the holy dwelling of the Most High. (5) "Be still and know that I am God!" (11)

Psalm 47

TNK

The Ruler of All the Nations
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	hymn praising God as King of Israel
comments:	"A psalm of the Korahites."

Psalm 48

TNK

The Splendor of the Invincible City
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	Zion hymn
comments:	"A psalm of the Korahites."

Psalm 49

TNK

Confidence in God Rather than in Riches
attributed to:	the Korahites
date composed:	Second Temple?
date of events:
genres:	confidence, wisdom
comments:	"A psalm of the Korahites."

Psalm 50

TNK

The Acceptable Sacrifice
attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	covenant lawsuit
comments:	A psalm of Asaph. 9 I will not take a bullock from your house, or he-goats from your folds. 10 For every animal of the forest is mine, beasts by the thousands on my mountains. 11 I know every bird in the heights; whatever moves in the wild is mine. 12 Were I hungry, I would not tell you, for mine is the world and all that fills it. 13 Do I eat the flesh of bulls or drink the blood of he-goats? 14 Offer praise as your sacrifice to God; fulfill your vows to the Most High. 15 Then call on me on the day of distress; I will rescue you, and you shall honor me.

Psalm 51

TNK

The Miserere Prayer of Repentance
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during David's reign
genres:	penitential lament
comments:	"A psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came to him after he had gone in to Bathsheba" (2 Samuel 12:13–14).

Psalm 52

TNK

The Deceitful Tongue
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during the war with Saul
genres:	NAB: A condemnation of the powerful and arrogant (Ps 52:3–6), who bring down upon themselves God’s judgment (Ps 52:7).
comments:	"A maskil of David, when Doeg the Edomite entered and reported to Saul, saying to him: 'David has entered the house of Ahimelech'"(1 Samuel 22:9).

Psalm 53

TNK

A Lament over Widespread Corruption
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	individual lament NAB: A lament of an individual, duplicated in Ps 14, except that “God” is used for “the LORD,” and Ps 53:6 is different, cf. Ps 14.
comments:	"For the leader; according to Mahalath. A maskil of David." All have gone astray; each one is altogether perverse. There is not one who does what is good, not even one. (4)

Psalm 54

TNK

Confiden Prayer in Great Peril
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during the war with Saul
genres:	lament
comments:	"A maskil of David, when the Ziphites came and said to Saul, 'David is hiding among us.'" (1 Samuel 23:19).

Psalm 55

TNK

A Lament over Betrayal
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	individual lament
comments:	"For the leader. On stringed instruments. A maskil of David." "I rock with grief" (3). I say, “If only I had wings like a dove that I might fly away and find rest. Far away I would flee; I would stay in the desert. “I would soon find a shelter from the raging wind and storm.” (7-9) For it is not an enemy that reviled me – that I could bear – Not a foe who viewed me with contempt, from that I could hide. But it was you, my other self, my comrade and friend, You, whose company I enjoyed, at whose side I walked in the house of God. (13-15) Cast your care upon the LORD, who will give you support. He will never allow the righteous to stumble. (23) NAB: The wish for a sudden death for one’s enemies (Ps 55:16) occurs elsewhere in the Psalms; an example of such a death is the earth opening under the wicked Dathan and Abiram (Nm 16:31–32). ... The Psalm is not so much for personal vengeance as for a public vindication of God’s righteousness now. There was no belief in an afterlife where such vindication could take place.

Psalm 56

TNK

Trust in God
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during war with Saul
genres:
comments:	"A miktam of David, when the Philistines seized him at Gath" (1 Samuel 21:10). NAB: "Are my tears not stored in your flask?" is a unique saying in the Old Testament. The context suggests that the tears are saved because they are precious; God puts a high value on each of the psalmist’s troubles.

Psalm 57

TNK

Confident Prayer for Deliverance
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during the war with Saul
genres:
comments:	"A miktam of David, when he fled from Saul into a cave" (1 Samuel 24:1).

Psalm 58

TNK

The Dethroning of Unjust Rulers
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament, confidence in God's power
comments:	"For the leader. Do not destroy. A miktam of David." O God, smash the teeth in their mouths; break the fangs of these lions, LORD! (7)

Psalm 59

TNK

Complaint against Bloodthirsty Enemies
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during Saul's reign
genres:	lament
comments:	"A miktam of David, when Saul sent people to watch his house and kill him" (1 Sm 19:11).

Psalm 60

TNK

Lament after Defeat in Battle
attributed to:	David
date composed:	After destruction of Northern Kingdom?
date of events:	During David's reign
genres:	community lament
comments:	"For the leader; according to “The Lily of.…” A miktam of David (for teaching), when he fought against Aram-Naharaim and Aram-Zobah; and Joab, coming back, killed twelve thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt." NAB: 2 Sm 8:2, 3, 13; 1 Chr 18:2, 3, 12. NAB: [60:7–12] These verses occur again as the second half of Ps 108.

Psalm 61

TNK

Prayer of the King in Time of Danger
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	royal lament
comments:	"For the leader; with stringed instruments. Of David."

Psalm 62

TNK

Trust in God Alone
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	confidence
comments:	"For the leader; ‘al Jeduthun. A psalm of David." One thing God has said; two things I have heard: Strength belongs to God; so too, my Lord, does mercy, For you repay each man according to his deeds. (12-13) NAB: [62:12] One thing…two things: parallelism of numbers for the sake of variation, a common device in Semitic poetry. One should not literally add up the numbers, cf. Am 1:3; Prv 6:16–19; 30:15, 18, 21.

Psalm 63

TNK

Ardent Longing for God
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:	during war with Absalom
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness of Judah" (2 Samuel 16:2).

Psalm 64

TNK

Treacherous Conspirators Punished by God
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament of a righteous person
comments:	"A psalm of David."

Psalm 65

TNK

Thanksgiving for God's Blessings
attributed to:	David
date composed:	First Temple
date of events:
genres:	thanksgiving, creation
comments:	"A psalm of David. A song."

Psalm 66

TNK

Praise of God, Israel's Deliverer
attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	communal and invidual thanksgiving
comments:	"A song; a psalm." You tested us, O God, tried us as silver tried by fire. You led us into a snare; you bound us at the waist as captives. You let captors set foot on our neck; we went through fire and water; then you led us out to freedom. (10-12)

Psalm 67

TNK

Harvest Thanks and Petition
attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	petition for a bountiful harvest
comments:	"For the leader; with stringed instruments. A psalm; a song."

Psalm 68

TNK

The Exodus and Conquest, Pledge of Future Help
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	thanksgiving, confidence
comments:	"A psalm of David; a song." NAB: The translation assumes the Psalm accompanied the early autumn Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkoth), which included a procession of the tribes (Ps 68:25–28).

Psalm 69

TNK

A Cry of Anguish in Great Distress
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	"For the leader; according to 'Lilies.' Of David." NAB: The Psalm prays not so much for personal vengeance as for public vindication of God’s justice. There was, at this time, no belief in an afterlife where such vindication could take place. Redress had to take place now, in the sight of all. Insult has broken my heart, and I despair; I looked for compassion, but there was none, for comforters, but found none. Instead they gave me poison for my food; and for my thirst they gave me vinegar. (21-22)

Psalm 70

TNK

Prayer for Divine Help
attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	"For the leader; of David. For remembrance." NAB: The Psalm is almost identical to Ps 40:14–17.

Psalm 71

TNK

Prayer in Time of Old Age
attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	"Lament of an old person whose afflictions are interpreted by enemies as divine judgment" (NAB), confidence, hope and praise
comments:	Bring to a shameful end those who attack me; Cover with contempt and scorn those who seek my ruin. (13)

Psalm 72

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	royal psalm
comments:	"Of Solomon." May the kings of Tarshish and the islands bring tribute, the kings of Sheba and Seba offer gifts. (10) May his name be forever; as long as the sun, may his name endure. May the tribes of the earth give blessings with his name; may all the nations regard him as favored. Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who alone does wonderful deeds. Blessed be his glorious name forever; may he fill all the earth with his glory. Amen and amen. The end of the psalms of David, son of Jesse. (17-20)

3. Psalms 73 to 89

Psalm 73

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	righteous vs. wicked (wisdom?); theodicy?
comments:	"A psalm of Asaph."

Psalm 74

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:	In exile?
date of events:	destruction of First Temple
genres:	communal lament "especially appropriate at the destruction of Jerusalem in 587 B.C."; creation
comments:	"A maskil of Asaph."

Psalm 75

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	thanksgiving, confidence
comments:	"For the leader. Do not destroy! A psalm of Asaph; a song."

Psalm 76

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"For the leader; a psalm with stringed instruments. A song of Asaph." NAB: A song glorifying Zion, the mountain of Jerusalem where God destroyed Israel’s enemies. Zion is thus the appropriate site to celebrate the victory (Ps 76:3–4), a victory described in parallel scenes (Ps 76:5–7, 8–11). Israel is invited to worship its powerful patron deity (Ps 76:12).

Psalm 77

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:	exile? post-exilic?
date of events:
genres:	community lament, creation, trust
comments:	"For the leader; According to Jeduthun. A psalm of Asaph." NAB: The question is thus posed to God: Will you allow the people you created to be destroyed? I consider the days of old; the years long past I remember. At night I ponder in my heart; and as I meditate, my spirit probes: “Will the Lord reject us forever, never again show favor? Has God’s mercy ceased forever? The promise to go unfulfilled for future ages? Has God forgotten how to show mercy, in anger withheld his compassion?” (6-10)

Psalm 78

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:	8th BC? 7th BC? post-exilic?
date of events:	Moses to David? NAB: While the Psalm has been thought to reflect the reunification program of either King Hezekiah (late eighth century) or King Josiah (late seventh century) in that the Northern Kingdom (Ephraim, Joseph) is especially invited to accept Zion and the Davidic king, a postexilic setting is also possible. Notable is the inclusion of the David-Zion tradition into the history of Israel recounted in the sources of the Pentateuch.
genres:	pondering history as a parable for the present
comments:	"A maskil of Asaph." He gave up his might into captivity, his glorious ark into the hands of the foe. (61)

Psalm 79

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:	exile? post-exilic?
date of events:	destruction of Temple in 587 BC
genres:	communal lament
comments:	"A psalm of Asaph."

Psalm 80

TNK

Asaph
attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"For the leader; according to 'Lilies.' Eduth. A psalm of Asaph."

Psalm 81

TNK

Asaph
attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 82

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 83

TNK

attributed to:	Asaph
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 84

TNK

attributed to:	A psalm of the Korahites.
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of the Korahites."

Psalm 85

TNK

attributed to:	The Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	A psalm of the Korahites.

Psalm 86

TNK

attributed to:	David
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 87

TNK

attributed to:	The Korahites
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:	"A psalm of the Korahites. A song."

Psalm 88

TNK

attributed to:	The Korahites (Heman the Ezraite?).
date composed:
date of events:
genres:	lament
comments:	:A song; a psalm of the Korahites. For the leader; according to Mahalath. For singing; a maskil of Heman the Ezrahite."

Psalm 89

TNK

attributed to:	Ethan the Ezrahite
date composed:
date of events:	Destruction of Jerusalem and Temple by the Babylonians.
genres:	community lament
comments:	"A maskil of Ethan the Ezrahite." "Blessed be the LORD forever! Amen and amen!" (53).

4. Psalms 90 to 106

Psalm 90

TNK

attributed to:	Moses
date composed:	during or after Exile?
date of events:	Exodus
genres:	communal lament: Seventy is the sum of our years, or eighty, if we are strong; Most of them are toil and sorrow; they pass quickly, and we are gone. (10)
comments:	"A prayer of Moses, the man of God."

Psalm 91

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 92

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 93

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 94

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 95

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 96

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 97

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 98

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 99

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 100

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 101

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 102

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:	After loss of Northern Kingdom? During or after Exile? "The nations shall fear your name, LORD, all the kings of the earth, your glory, Once the LORD has rebuilt Zion" (16-17).
genres:	penitential lament
comments:	"The prayer of one afflicted and wasting away whose anguish is poured out before the LORD."

Psalm 103

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 104

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 105

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

Psalm 106

TNK

attributed to:
date composed:
date of events:
genres:
comments:

5. Psalms 107 to 150

Psalm 107

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Psalm 108

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Psalm 109

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Psalm 110

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Psalm 111

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Psalm 112

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Psalm 113

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Psalm 114

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Psalm 115

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Psalm 116

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Psalm 117

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Psalm 118

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Psalm 119

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Psalm 120

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Psalm 121

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Psalm 122

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Psalm 123

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Psalm 124

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Psalm 125

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Psalm 126

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date of events:	return from Exile
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Psalm 127

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attributed to:	Solomon
date composed:	post-exilic?
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genres:	wisdom
comments:	"A song of ascents. Of Solomon." Unless the LORD build the house, they labor in vain who build. Unless the LORD guard the city, in vain does the guard keep watch. It is vain for you to rise early and put off your rest at night, To eat bread earned by hard toil— all this God gives to his beloved in sleep. (1-2)

Psalm 128

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Psalm 129

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Psalm 130

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genres:	penitential lament, pilgrimage
comments:	* "A song of ascents." "Out of the depths I call to you, LORD" (1)--De profundis. "My soul looks for the Lord more than sentinels for daybreak. More than sentinels for daybreak, let Israel hope in the LORD, For with the LORD is mercy, with him is plenteous redemption, And he will redeem Israel from all its sins" (6-8).

Psalm 131

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Psalm 132

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Psalm 133

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Psalm 134

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Psalm 135

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Psalm 136

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Psalm 137

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Psalm 138

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Psalm 139

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Psalm 140

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Psalm 141

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Psalm 142

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attributed to:	David
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date of events:	during war with Saul
genres:	lament
comments:	"A maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A prayer" (1 Samuel 22:1).

Psalm 143

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attributed to:	David
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genres:	penitential lament
comments:	"A psalm of David." "In your mercy put an end to my foes; all those who are oppressing my soul, for I am your servant" (12).

Psalm 144

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Psalm 145

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Psalm 146

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Psalm 147

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Psalm 148

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Psalm 149

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Psalm 150

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Genres

Penitential Psalms

These seven psalms were identified during the seventh century AD as "suitable to express repentance" (NAB, Ps 6).

• Psalm 6
• Psalm 32
• Psalm 38
• Psalm 51
• Psalm 102
• Psalm 130
• Psalm 143

Hebrew Poetry

Duplication: Zech 9:9.

Acrostics

Rhythm?

Assonance?

Alliteration?

Alphabetical structure--Acrostics

Psalm 9 2 verses for each of the 22 Hebrew consonants

Psalm 10 2 verses each

Psalm 25 1 verse each

Psalm 34 1 verse each

Psalm 37 2 verses each

Psalm 111 ½ verse each

Psalm 112 ½ verse each

Psalm 119 8 verses each

Psalm 145 1 verse each

To do?

• Add traditional titles to the psalms?
• Note the daily Psalms from the Temple period
• Note the acrostic psalms in my commentary ...