What is psalmen?
Psalms, also known as the Psalter, is a book of Hebrew poetry found in the Old Testament of the Bible. It is a collection of 150 individual psalms, traditionally attributed to King David, though modern scholarship suggests various authors and time periods. The psalms cover a wide range of human emotions and experiences, making them relatable across cultures and time.
Here are some important subjects covered in the Psalms:
- Praise: Many psalms are hymns of praise, celebrating God's greatness, power, and goodness. They often call upon all creation to join in the worship.
- Thanksgiving: Related to praise, these psalms express gratitude to God for specific blessings, answered prayers, or deliverance from trouble.
- Lament: These psalms express sorrow, grief, and complaint to God, often in the face of suffering, persecution, or injustice. They typically include a plea for God's help and deliverance.
- Trust: Many psalms focus on the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness and provision, even in difficult circumstances.
- Confession: These psalms acknowledge sin and seek God's forgiveness. They often express remorse and a desire for cleansing and renewal.
- Wisdom: Some psalms offer instruction on how to live a righteous life, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's law and seeking his guidance.
- Kingship: Several psalms focus on the Davidic kingship and sometimes have messianic interpretations, pointing to the coming Messiah. They celebrate God's reign over all the earth.