Title and Author: The book of Psalms, known in Hebrew as "Tehillim" (meaning "Praises"), is a collection of religious songs, prayers, and poems. Traditionally, King David is credited with composing many of the Psalms, but other authors include Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, Moses, and anonymous contributors. The Berean Standard Bible provides a faithful translation of these ancient texts.

Historical Context: The Psalms were written over a span of several centuries, from the time of Moses (circa 1400 BC) to the post-exilic period (circa 400 BC). They reflect the history of Israel, including the monarchy, the Babylonian exile, and the return to Jerusalem. The Psalms capture the spiritual and emotional life of the Israelites, offering insight into their worship practices and relationship with God.

Audience: The primary audience of the Psalms was the people of Israel, serving as their hymnbook for worship in the Temple and synagogues. However, the universal themes of praise, lament, and thanksgiving make the Psalms relevant to all believers throughout history.

Purpose: The Psalms were composed to facilitate worship, provide comfort, and express the full range of human emotions before God. They serve as a guide for personal and communal prayer, teaching believers how to approach God with honesty and reverence.

Genre and Style: The Psalms are a collection of poetic compositions, utilizing parallelism, metaphor, and vivid imagery. They encompass various genres, including hymns, laments, and thanksgiving songs.1. David (Psalm 3:1)
- David is traditionally attributed as the author of many of the Psalms. He was the second king of Israel and is known for his deep faith and complex character. Psalm 3 is titled "A Psalm of David, when he fled from his son Absalom."

2. The Wicked (Psalm 1:1)
- While not a specific individual, "the wicked" are frequently mentioned throughout the Psalms as those who oppose God and His ways. They are contrasted with the righteous.

3. The Righteous (Psalm 1:1)
- Similar to "the wicked," "the righteous" are not specific individuals but represent those who follow God's laws and live according to His will.

4. The Nations (Psalm 2:1)
- "The nations" often refer to the Gentile peoples or kingdoms that oppose God's chosen people, Israel. They are depicted as rebelling against God's anointed.

5. The Anointed One (Psalm 2:2)
- This term is often understood to refer to the Messiah or a king chosen by God. In Christian interpretation, it is seen as a prophecy of Jesus Christ.

6. The Son (Psalm 2:7)
- In this context, "the Son" is often interpreted as a reference to the king of Israel, and in Christian theology, it is seen as a messianic prophecy referring to Jesus.

7. Enemies (Psalm 3:1)
- Enemies are frequently mentioned in the Psalms as those who oppose the psalmist, often representing broader opposition to God's people.

8. The Fool (Psalm 14:1)
- "The fool" is a term used to describe someone who denies God or lives in a way that is contrary to His wisdom.

9. The Poor and Needy (Psalm 9:18)
- These terms are used to describe those who are oppressed or in need of God's help and justice.

10. The King (Psalm 18:50)
- Often refers to the reigning king of Israel, typically David, who is seen as God's chosen leader.

11. The Servant (Psalm 19:11)
- This term is used to describe those who serve God faithfully, often referring to the psalmist himself.

12. The Shepherd (Psalm 23:1)
- While not a specific person, the shepherd is a metaphor for God, who guides and cares for His people like a shepherd with his sheep.

13. The Lord (Psalm 23:1)
- Refers to God, who is the central figure throughout the Psalms, worshipped and praised for His power, mercy, and justice.

14. The Enemy (Psalm 27:2)
- Similar to "enemies," this term refers to those who oppose the psalmist or God's people.

15. The Wicked Man (Psalm 37:16)
- A specific representation of those who live in opposition to God's ways, often contrasted with the righteous.

16. The Righteous Man (Psalm 37:16)
- Represents those who live according to God's laws and are blessed by Him.

17. The Lord's Anointed (Psalm 45:7)
- Refers to the king of Israel, often seen as a messianic figure in Christian interpretation.

18. The Queen (Psalm 45:9)
- Mentioned in a royal context, symbolizing the bride of the king, often interpreted as the church in Christian theology.

19. The Sons of Korah (Psalm 42:1)
- A group of Levitical singers and authors of several Psalms, known for their role in temple worship.

20. The Godly (Psalm 4:3)
- Refers to those who are faithful to God and live according to His covenant.1. Zion (Psalm 2:6)
- Zion is often used to refer to Jerusalem, the city of David, and the spiritual center of Israel. It symbolizes God's holy dwelling place and the seat of His kingdom. "I have installed My King on Zion, upon My holy mountain."

2. Sheol (Psalm 6:5)
- Sheol is the Hebrew term for the realm of the dead, often depicted as a shadowy place where the dead reside. It is not necessarily a place of punishment but rather a place of silence and forgetfulness. "For there is no mention of You in death; who can praise You from Sheol?"

3. Heaven (Psalm 11:4)
- Heaven is depicted as the dwelling place of God, a realm of divine presence and authority. It is often contrasted with the earthly realm. "The LORD is in His holy temple; the LORD is on His heavenly throne."

4. The Sea (Psalm 8:8)
- The sea represents the vast and powerful natural world created by God. It is often used to symbolize chaos and the unknown. "The birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas."

5. The Wilderness (Psalm 29:8)
- The wilderness is a place of desolation and testing, often associated with the Israelites' journey and God's provision. "The voice of the LORD shakes the wilderness; the LORD shakes the Wilderness of Kadesh."

6. Mount Hermon (Psalm 42:6)
- Mount Hermon is a prominent mountain in the northern part of Israel, known for its height and snow-capped peaks. It symbolizes majesty and divine presence. "Therefore I remember You from the land of Jordan and the peaks of Hermon—from Mount Mizar."

7. Bashan (Psalm 68:15)
- Bashan is a fertile region east of the Jordan River, known for its strong bulls and lush pastures. It often symbolizes strength and abundance. "A mountain of God is the hill of Bashan; a mountain of many peaks is Mount Bashan."

8. Egypt (Psalm 78:12)
- Egypt is frequently mentioned as the land of Israel's bondage and the site of God's mighty acts of deliverance. It represents oppression and God's power to save. "He worked wonders before their fathers in the land of Egypt, in the region of Zoan."

9. Jerusalem (Psalm 122:2)
- Jerusalem is the capital city of Israel, central to Jewish worship and identity. It is often seen as a place of peace and divine presence. "Our feet are standing in your gates, O Jerusalem."

10. Lebanon (Psalm 92:12)
- Lebanon is known for its majestic cedar trees, symbolizing strength and endurance. It is often associated with beauty and fertility. "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon."1. Praise and Worship of God (Psalm 8:1)
- The Psalms frequently express adoration and reverence for God's majesty and creation. For example, Psalm 8 begins with, "O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!"

2. God as Creator (Psalm 19:1)
- Many psalms celebrate God as the creator of the universe, highlighting His power and wisdom. Psalm 19:1 states, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands."

3. God's Protection and Deliverance (Psalm 23:1)
- The Psalms often depict God as a shepherd who guides and protects His people. Psalm 23 is a well-known example, beginning with, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want."

4. Repentance and Forgiveness (Psalm 51:1)
- Several psalms focus on themes of sin, repentance, and seeking God's forgiveness. Psalm 51 is a penitential psalm where David seeks mercy, starting with, "Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your loving devotion."

5. God's Justice and Righteousness (Psalm 9:7-8)
- The Psalms often affirm God's role as a just and righteous judge. Psalm 9:7-8 declares, "But the LORD abides forever; He has established His throne for judgment. He judges the world with justice; He governs the people with equity."

6. Lament and Suffering (Psalm 22:1)
- Many psalms express deep sorrow and distress, often seeking God's intervention. Psalm 22 begins with a cry of anguish, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?"

7. Thanksgiving and Gratitude (Psalm 30:1)
- Expressions of gratitude for God's blessings and deliverance are common. Psalm 30:1 starts with, "I will exalt You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up and have not allowed my foes to rejoice over me."

8. God's Covenant and Faithfulness (Psalm 89:1-2)
- The Psalms frequently reflect on God's covenant with His people and His unwavering faithfulness. Psalm 89 begins with, "I will sing of the LORD’s loving devotion forever; with my mouth I will proclaim Your faithfulness to all generations."

9. Wisdom and Instruction (Psalm 1:1-2)
- Some psalms provide guidance on living a righteous life, emphasizing the importance of following God's law. Psalm 1 opens with, "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked... But his delight is in the law of the LORD."

10. Messianic Prophecies (Psalm 2:7)
- Certain psalms are considered prophetic, pointing to the coming of the Messiah. Psalm 2:7 is often interpreted as a messianic prophecy: "I will proclaim the decree spoken to Me by the LORD: 'You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.'"1. Praise and Worship
The Psalms frequently call for the worship and praise of God, celebrating His majesty, power, and goodness. This theme emphasizes the importance of acknowledging God's greatness and expressing gratitude.
(First occurrence: Psalm 7:17)
"I will thank the LORD for His righteousness and sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High."

2. Trust in God
Many Psalms express a deep trust in God, even in times of trouble. This theme highlights the belief in God's faithfulness and protection.
(First occurrence: Psalm 4:5)
"Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the LORD."

3. God's Sovereignty
The Psalms often reflect on God's supreme authority over creation and history, affirming His control over all things.
(First occurrence: Psalm 2:4)
"The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord taunts them."

4. Lament and Suffering
The Psalms include expressions of sorrow, distress, and pleas for help, reflecting the human experience of suffering and the search for divine intervention.
(First occurrence: Psalm 3:1)
"O LORD, how my foes have increased! How many rise up against me!"

5. Repentance and Forgiveness
Some Psalms focus on confession of sin and the seeking of God's mercy, emphasizing the themes of repentance and divine forgiveness.
(First occurrence: Psalm 6:1-2)
"O LORD, do not rebuke me in Your anger or discipline me in Your wrath. Be merciful to me, O LORD, for I am frail; heal me, O LORD, for my bones are in agony."

6. God's Justice and Righteousness
The Psalms frequently speak of God's just nature and His commitment to righteousness, often contrasting it with human injustice.
(First occurrence: Psalm 7:9)
"Bring an end to the violence of the wicked, and establish the righteous, O righteous God who searches hearts and minds."

7. Creation and Nature
The beauty and majesty of creation are celebrated in the Psalms, pointing to God's creative power and the natural world's testimony to His glory.
(First occurrence: Psalm 8:3-4)
"When I behold Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place—what is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You care for him?"

8. Thanksgiving
Expressions of gratitude for God's blessings and deliverance are common, encouraging a spirit of thankfulness.
(First occurrence: Psalm 9:1)
"I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart; I will recount all Your wonders."

9. Wisdom and Instruction
Some Psalms provide guidance and wisdom for living a life pleasing to God, often reflecting on the law and its benefits.
(First occurrence: Psalm 1:1-2)
"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers, but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night."

10. Messianic Prophecy
Certain Psalms are seen as prophetic, pointing to the coming of the Messiah and His kingdom.
(First occurrence: Psalm 2:7)
"I will proclaim the decree spoken to Me by the LORD: 'You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.'"1. Son of God
- Description: This title emphasizes the divine nature and authority of Jesus as the Son of God.
- Reference: "I will proclaim the decree spoken to Me by the LORD: 'You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.'" (Psalm 2:7)

2. Anointed One (Messiah)
- Description: The term "Anointed One" or "Messiah" signifies Jesus as the chosen and consecrated leader and savior.
- Reference: "The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together, against the LORD and against His Anointed One." (Psalm 2:2)

3. King
- Description: Jesus is depicted as a sovereign ruler, establishing His kingdom and authority.
- Reference: "I have installed My King on Zion, upon My holy mountain." (Psalm 2:6)

4. Son of Man
- Description: This title highlights the humanity of Jesus and His role as a representative of humankind.
- Reference: "What is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You care for him?" (Psalm 8:4)

5. Shepherd
- Description: Jesus is portrayed as a caring and guiding shepherd, leading and protecting His flock.
- Reference: "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1)

6. Cornerstone
- Description: As the cornerstone, Jesus is the essential and foundational element of the faith and the church.
- Reference: "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone." (Psalm 118:22)

7. Suffering Servant
- Description: This type reflects Jesus' role in enduring suffering and sacrifice for the redemption of humanity.
- Reference: "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1)

8. Priest
- Description: Jesus is seen as a priest, mediating between God and humanity, offering Himself as a sacrifice.
- Reference: "The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind: 'You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.'" (Psalm 110:4)

9. Judge
- Description: Jesus is depicted as a righteous judge who will execute justice and establish righteousness.
- Reference: "He will judge the nations, heaping up the dead; He will crush the leaders far and wide." (Psalm 110:6)

10. Light
- Description: As the light, Jesus brings truth, guidance, and salvation to the world.
- Reference: "The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?" (Psalm 27:1)1. Prophecy of the Messiah's Rejection
- Prophecy: "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone." (Psalm 118:22)
- Fulfillment: "Jesus said to them, 'Have you never read in the Scriptures: "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this is from the Lord, and it is marvelous in our eyes"?' " (Matthew 21:42)

2. Prophecy of the Messiah's Betrayal
- Prophecy: "Even my close friend whom I trusted, the one who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me." (Psalm 41:9)
- Fulfillment: "I am not speaking about all of you; I know whom I have chosen. But this is to fulfill the Scripture: 'The one who eats bread with Me has lifted up his heel against Me.' " (John 13:18)

3. Prophecy of the Messiah's Crucifixion
- Prophecy: "They pierced my hands and my feet." (Psalm 22:16)
- Fulfillment: "So the other disciples told him, 'We have seen the Lord!' But he replied, 'Unless I see the nail marks in His hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.' " (John 20:25)

4. Prophecy of the Messiah's Suffering and Mockery
- Prophecy: "All who see me mock me; they sneer and shake their heads." (Psalm 22:7)
- Fulfillment: "Those who passed by heaped abuse on Him, shaking their heads." (Matthew 27:39)

5. Prophecy of the Messiah's Garments Divided
- Prophecy: "They divide my garments among them and cast lots for my clothing." (Psalm 22:18)
- Fulfillment: "When they had crucified Him, they divided up His garments by casting lots." (Matthew 27:35)

6. Prophecy of the Messiah's Resurrection
- Prophecy: "For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol, nor will You let Your Holy One see decay." (Psalm 16:10)
- Fulfillment: "He was not abandoned to Hades, nor did His body see decay." (Acts 2:31)

7. Prophecy of the Messiah's Ascension
- Prophecy: "You have ascended on high; You have led captives away." (Psalm 68:18)
- Fulfillment: "This is why it says: 'When He ascended on high, He led captives away and gave gifts to men.' " (Ephesians 4:8)

1. Book 1  ( 1:1⁠–⁠41:13 )

2. Book 2  ( 42:1⁠–⁠72:20 )

3. Book 3  ( 73:1⁠–⁠89:52 )

4. Book 4  ( 90:1⁠–⁠106:48 )

5. Book 5  ( 107:1⁠–⁠150:6 )