An Overview of the Psalms

The Psalms and their Authorship:

73 Psalms are ascribed to David.
12 to Asaph.
10 to the sons of Korah.
2 to Solomon.
1 to Ethan.
1 to Heman and
1 to Moses.

There are 5 Books of Psalms corresponding in theme to the 5 Books of Moses –

Book 1 Psalms 1-41 to Genesis (The Book for Sinners – Rebellion/Ruin)
Book 2 Psalms 42-72 to Exodus (The Book for Sons – Redemption)
Book 3 Psalms 73-89 to Leviticus (The Book for Saints – Worship/Communion)
Book 4 Psalms 90-106 to Numbers (The Book for Sojourners – Experiences)
Book 5 Psalms 107-150 to Deuteronomy (The Book for Students – Inheritance)

Many Psalms are:

Alphabetical – Psalms 9, 10, 25, 34, 37, 111, 112, 119, 145.

Devotional – Psalms 3, 16, 54, 61, 86, 122, 144.

Didactic – Psalms 1, 5, 7, 15, 50, 73, 94, 101.

Messianic (The Messiah) – Psalms 2, 8, 16, 22, 23, 24, 34, 35, 40, 45, 68, 69, 72, 89, 102, 110, 118.

Millennial (1,000-year reign and rule of The Lord Jesus) – Psalms 47, 65, 66, 67, 72, 97, 98, 110.

Paeans of Praise – Psalms 106, 111, 112, 113, 117, 135, 146-150.

Penitential – Psalms 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143.

Pilgrims’ Songs – Psalms 120-134 are called the 15 Songs of Degrees or Ascents up to Jerusalem.

Supplicatory – Psalms 17, 86, 90, 102, 142.

Messiah in the Psalms:

His Sonship – Psalm 2:7; 110:1.
His Manhood – Psalm 8:4-5.
His Deity – Psalm 45:6, 11.
His Kingship – Psalm 2:6; 89:18-19, 29; 110:1.
His Sovereignty – Psalm 72:8; 103:19.
His Holiness – Psalm 89:18-19.
His Conquests – Psalm 110:5-6.
His Return in Glory – Psalm 98.

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