Nutty Numbers ... Here is one of those confusing points of discontinuity between the numbering of the Latin Vulgate Psalter and the modern western translations. 114 and 115 were combined into what is now 116 in our Psalter. This explains why some Ps 116 settings over the years are listed as quoting from Psalms 114 and … Continue reading Psalm 116, 18 Jun 17
Psalm 8, 11 Jun 17
‘Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings‘, according to Psalm 8, come not precocious wisdom and truth – as is the modern common usage of this phrase – but strength, or a bulwark ordained in heaven. The modern rather flippant saying recognises that children pick up and repeat what they hear, and sometimes that … Continue reading Psalm 8, 11 Jun 17
Psalm 104, 4 June 17
Here we have epic demonstrative poetry, the poet overcome by the glory and power of the creation — and the Creator. His or her feelings are quite infectious: You are clothed with honor and majesty, wrapped in light as with a garment. You stretch out the heavens like a tent, you set the beams of your chambers … Continue reading Psalm 104, 4 June 17
Psalm 68, 28 May 17
In the ‘bookends’ at beginning and end of this long psalm, the psalmist calls for the great kingdoms of the earth, their flags proudly flying in the national capitals of the world, to recognise the divine supremacy of ‘the rider in the heavens, the ancient heavens’ and invites us to lift songs of thanks and praise. Between … Continue reading Psalm 68, 28 May 17
Psalm 66, 21 May 17
This psalm is a cry of joy for divine guidance and deliverance. Come and hear, you who fear our maker, as I tell how God rescued my soul. I cried to God and was answered; God’s praise is ever on my lips (vv. 8, 9) The psalmist feels that he has been pulled through the … Continue reading Psalm 66, 21 May 17
Psalm 31, 14 May 17
This psalm, combining many common themes of supplication, distress, trust and courage in diversity, appeared in the Lectionary just last month. It was discussed in a post for Palm Sunday, a summary of which follows. This is a rich psalm, combining feelings of confidence and security together with a sense of danger, sorrow and dismay. Enduring all … Continue reading Psalm 31, 14 May 17
Psalm 23, 7 May 17
Please see a previous post for 26 March 2017.
Psalm 116, 30 Apr 17
Here is one of those confusing points of discontinuity between the numbering of the Latin Vulgate Psalter and the modern western translations. 114 and 115 were combined into what is now 116 in our Psalter. This explains why settings ovr the years are listed as quoting from Psalms 114 and 115. The incipit Credidi of Victoria's … Continue reading Psalm 116, 30 Apr 17
Psalm 16, 23 Apr 17
Like the twenty-third, this is a psalm of trust and protection in divine presence, the source of goodness and guidance. David describes God as his portion and cup, evoking familiar imagery in themes that connect well with daily life. Less familiar but interesting are some other phrases that might easily pass unnoticed in a quick reading. First, in verse 6: "The … Continue reading Psalm 16, 23 Apr 17
Psalm 118, Easter 16 Apr 17
On both Palm Sunday and on Easter Sunday we are invited to hear Psalm 118. There’s a lot to this psalm so the revisit on successive Sundays is worthwhile. Many phrases are familiar, bringing to mind songs that have featured them: steadfast love; open the gates; the cornerstone; this is the day; one who comes … Continue reading Psalm 118, Easter 16 Apr 17
Psalms in the South 