Writers: David and others
Place Written: Undetermined
Writing Completed: c. 460Â B.C.E.
THE book of Psalms was the inspired songbook of true worshipers of Jehovah in ancient times, a collection of 150 sacred songs, or psalms, set to music and arranged for the public worship of Jehovah God in his temple at Jerusalem. These psalms are songs of praise to Jehovah, and not only that, they also contain prayers of supplication for mercy and help, as well as expressions of trust and confidence. They abound with thanksgivings and exultations and with exclamations of great, yes, superlative, joy. Some are recapitulations of history, contemplating Jehovah’s loving-kindness and his great deeds. They are packed with prophecies, many of which have had remarkable fulfillments. They contain much instruction that is beneficial and upbuilding, all of it clothed in lofty language and imagery that stirs the reader to the very depths. The psalms are a sumptuous spiritual meal, beautifully prepared and spread invitingly before us.
2 What is the significance of the book’s title, and who wrote the Psalms? In the Hebrew Bible, the book is called Se′pher Tehil·lim′, meaning “Book of Praises,” or simply Tehil·lim′, that is, “Praises.” This is the plural form of Tehil·lah′, meaning “A Praise” or “Song of Praise,” found in the superscription of Psalm 145. The name “Praises” is most appropriate, as the book highlights praise to Jehovah. The title “Psalms” comes from the Greek Septuagint, which used the word Psal·moi′, denoting songs sung with a musical accompaniment. The word is also found at a number of places in the Christian Greek Scriptures, such as at Luke 20:42 and Acts 1:20. A psalm is a sacred song or poem used in the praise and worship of God.
3 Many of the psalms have headings, or superscriptions, and these often name the writer. Seventy-three headings bear the name of David, “the pleasant one of the melodies of Israel.” (2 Sam. 23:1) No doubt Psalms 2, 72, and 95 were also written by David. (See Acts 4:25, Psalm 72:20, and Hebrews 4:7.) Additionally, Psalms 10 and 71 appear to be a continuation of Psalms 9 and 70 respectively and therefore may be attributed to David. Twelve psalms are ascribed to Asaph, evidently denoting the house of Asaph, as some of these speak of events later than Asaph’s day. (Ps. 79; 80; 1 Chron. 16:4, 5, 7; Ezra 2:41) Eleven psalms are directly attributed to the sons of Korah. (1 Chron. 6:31-38) Psalm 43 appears to be a continuation of Psalm 42, and therefore it may also be attributed to the sons of Korah. In addition to mentioning “the sons of Korah,” Psalm 88 also accredits Heman in its superscription, and Psalm 89 names Ethan as the writer. Psalm 90 is attributed to Moses, and Psalm 91 is probably Moses’ as well. Psalm 127 is Solomon’s. Over two thirds of the psalms are thus ascribed to various writers.