The singing of psalms, as mentioned at the home page, is a longstanding and wide-spread tradition. The psalms, like the Torah or Tawrat, are recognised in many major religions besides Christianity (1): As tehillim they appear, of course, in the Jewish scriptures. In Islamic writings frequent reference may be found to the zabur. The zabur are often referred to … Continue reading David and Da’ud
Psalm 130, 6 Apr 14
This psalm, which we last sang in August 2012, is another song of ascent (psalms 120 to 134). Just for interest, click on the tag for 'ascent' at right, revealing that we have not actually sung many of them. (The tag including psalm 15 just recognises its similar theme.) It's also apparently the sixth of seven penitential psalms: not that it matters … Continue reading Psalm 130, 6 Apr 14
Psalm 151
151? There are only 150 psalms in the recognised canon. It depends on who you ask. Another text, not actually numbered 151 and a sort of annex to the collection, appeared in the Septuagint, an early (3rd C.) translation of Hebrew texts into Greek. Later, a copy was found in the Dead Sea Scrolls, indicating … Continue reading Psalm 151
Psalm 23, 30 March 14
The 'Shepherd Psalm' needs no introduction or commentary here, so none is offered. Music You may imagine this one to be irrevocably associated with Jessie Irving's famous tune CRIMOND. This week however, being the last Sunday of the month, we take advantage of the presence of a male voice quartet to do something different. Remaining respectful … Continue reading Psalm 23, 30 March 14
Psalm 95, 23 March 14
This psalm rewards the reader with new dimensions each reading. The first half starts with a song, indeed a shout, of praise and thanks to the creator of a fantastic world; and not just any old song but; let us come before God with thanksgiving / and raise a loud shout with psalms (v. 3) … Continue reading Psalm 95, 23 March 14
Psalm 121, 16 March 2014
I will lift up my eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. (v.1) Or so went this familiar line from Psalm 121 in that old dusty King James version on the top shelf somewhere. This is a song of ascent or access - like Psalm 15 that we sang on 2 February: who … Continue reading Psalm 121, 16 March 2014
Where’s that text?
A housekeeping post. The psalm text You will have your own way of dipping into the Bible: was it somewhere in the bookshelf? That well-thumbed black one by the bed? Or even an automatic feed to your smart-phone calendar from the Vanderbilt lectionary web-site? You should also find the readings on the South Woden web-site … Continue reading Where’s that text?
Psalm 32, Lent, 9 Mar 14
The psalm. This one could be called a psalm of penitence (this theme taking up the first half of the song), or of refuge (vv. 6 -7). But then it changes direction, breaks into other riffs of guidance or wisdom (8-9) and finally thanksgiving. And how are they related, pray tell? So many ideas tumbling one after … Continue reading Psalm 32, Lent, 9 Mar 14
Psalm 2, 2 March 2014
Psalm 2 has a very modern message, as nations conspire and people plot in vain; the rulers of the earth set themselves and leaders take counsel together ... 'Let us cast their cords from us'. (v.1-3) Rulers seeking to throw off the 'bonds' of God. This author will be the first to recognise that there … Continue reading Psalm 2, 2 March 2014
Psalm 119 continued, 23 Feb 14
We thank the carers' group for leading this worship on 23 February. The carers work diligently behind the scenes to keep in touch with all our members, to respond to their needs or just to be there in times of stress. We are thankful for their dedication and faithfulness. The psalm This week we continue … Continue reading Psalm 119 continued, 23 Feb 14
Psalms in the South 