▸ AUTHOR: Seventy-five of the psalms in the book are designated as Davidic: 3–9; 11–32; 34–41; 51–65; 68–70; 86; 101; 103; 108–110; 122; 124; 131; 133; and 138–145. The New Testament tells us that the “anonymous” Psalms 2 and 95 were also written by David. In addition to these, twelve are by Asaph, a priest who headed the service of music; ten are by the sons of Korah, a guild of singers and composers; two are by Solomon, Israel’s most powerful king; one is by Moses; one by Heman, a wise man; and one is by Ethan, another wise man. The remaining fifty psalms are anonymous, but tradition attributes them to Ezra.
▸ TIME: c. 1410–430 B.C.
▸ KEY VERSE: Ps. 19:14
▸ THEME: A collection of songs that literally covers hundreds of years of Jewish history from the patriarchs down through the postexilic period, the Book of Psalms is practical and personal as well as scenic and magnificently beautiful. The Psalms teach us how to pray, how to grieve, how to rejoice, and how to worship. Any Christian who makes building a relationship with God a priority in his or her life will find great spiritual nourishment in the Psalms. It is the prayer book for all who believe in the God of the universe. Jesus used it as such, and so should we.