Purpose

To provide a songbook for worship and express the full range of human emotions in relationship with God.

Author

Multiple authors over 1,000 years. David wrote nearly half (73 psalms), often during his years as a shepherd, warrior, and king. Other contributors include worship leaders, musicians, and poets.

Historical Context

Written: 1440-400 BC. Israel's worship songs covering 1,000 years of history from Moses to the exile.

Significance

The Bible's prayer book and hymnal, showing us how to relate to God honestly in every circumstance.

Key Themes

Worship, Prayer, God's Character, Trust, Deliverance

Interesting Facts

• Psalms is the longest book in the Bible with 150 chapters
• Jesus quoted Psalms more than any other Old Testament book
• Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Bible (2 verses)

Prophecies

• Messianic psalms predicting Christ's suffering and glory (Psalms 22, 69, 110, etc.) Fulfilled: Jesus fulfilled these in His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension (1000 years later)

Psalm 73, attributed to Asaph, is a profound exploration of the tension between the apparent success of the wicked and the struggles faced by the righteous. The psalm opens with a declaration of God's goodness towards Israel, particularly those who maintain purity of heart. However, the psalmist quickly confesses a personal crisis of faith. He admits that he nearly lost his footing, envious of the apparent ease and wealth of the arrogant and wicked. They seem untouched by suffering, thriving without the troubles that plague others. This disparity leads him to question the value of his own righteousness and purity, as he feels that his efforts to remain faithful have been in vain. The psalmist observes the pride, violence, and mockery of the wicked, and their disdain for God, which only deepens his confusion and frustration. The turning point comes when the psalmist enters the sanctuary of God. In this holy place, his perspective shifts dramatically. He gains insight into the ultimate fate of the wicked, realizing that their seemingly prosperous lives are temporary and will lead to destruction. This revelation brings him peace, as he understands that God has set them in slippery places, destined for ruin. The psalm concludes with a powerful affirmation of God's presence and strength. The psalmist recognizes that even in his doubts and struggles, God remains his ultimate refuge and inheritance. The chapter serves not only as a reflection on human emotions but also as a reminder of divine justice and the transient nature of worldly success.