This landmark volume covers the main aspects of modern Psalms study from the formation of individual Psalms down into the first centuries of the Common Era: the formation of the Psalter, individual Psalms and smaller collections, social setting, literary context, textual history, nachleben, and theology.

The Book of Psalms is the most-read and most-quoted book of the Bible. Psalms or "songs" give expression to every human emotion and the timeless words still bring hope and healing. Let your spirit be renewed and your heart uplifted as you realize the relevance of these inspirational reminders. The Smart Guide to the Bible: The Book of Psalms covers the meanings of the psalms and their impact today, the power of prayer, praise, trust, and obedience, and how to be smart about God's purpose, protection, deliverance, and direction. Every page contains handy features or learning aids like these: cross-references to other Scriptures brief commentaries from experts points to ponder the big picture of how passages fit with the entire Bible practical tips for applying biblical truths to life simple definitions of key words and concepts interesting maps, charts, and illustrations wrap-ups of each biblical passage study questions Whether you're new to the Bible, a long-time student of Scripture, or somewhere in between, you'll appreciate the many ways The Smart Guide to the Bible: The Book of Psalms goes far beyond your typical Bible study tool. The practical, relevant helps on each page lead you to get the most out of God's word.

Reflecting the combined insights and strengths of three superior biblical scholars, this book is the most complete and detailed one-volume commentary available on the Psalms. Nancy deClaisse-Walford, Rolf Jacobson, and Beth LaNeel Tanner offer a succinct introduction to the Psalter, a new translation of all the psalms that takes special account of the Dead Sea Scrolls, and individual entries on each psalm unit. Throughout their commentary they drew on state-of-the-art research on the canonical shape and shaping of the Psalter and give nuanced attention to the poetic nature of the psalms.

One of Newsweek’s Best Books of the Year and winner of the Robert Kirsch Award for Lifetime Achievement. A cornerstone of the scriptural canon, the Book of Psalms has been a source of solace and joy for countless readers over millennia. This timeless poetry is beautifully wrought by a scholar whose translation of the Five Books of Moses was hailed as a “godsend” by Seamus Heaney and a “masterpiece” by Robert Fagles. Alter’s The Book of Psalms captures the simplicity, the physicality, and the coiled rhythmic power of the Hebrew, restoring the remarkable eloquence of these ancient poems. His learned and insightful commentary illuminates the obscurities of the text.