Psalm 105 is a song of praise, as indeed are 106 and 107 that follow. The opening lines sound familiar, as such phrases occur throughout the Bible: Confitemini Domino et invocate nomen ejus Give glory to the Lord, and call upon his name The next verse narrows the focus to set the theme as historical narrative, evidence that has provided confidence for … Continue reading Psalm 105, 27 July 14
Tag: history
historical aspect of music or psalm
David and Da’ud
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 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 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 80, 22Dec13
Psalm 80 is a cry for restoration by the 'Shepherd of Israel, leading Joseph like a flock'. As strife continues all around, the singer seeks a more peaceable zone, perhaps by the still waters and safe pastures of other familiar psalms. The psalmist invokes the Creator's strength and justice to intervene and bring safety to the … Continue reading Psalm 80, 22Dec13
Psalms – a summary <140
The title reference to less than 140 is nothing to do with psalm numbering: it's short tweets. Thanks to Rachel for this fantastic RT from Ben Myers, who is summarising the books of the bible in a few words on Twitter. His take on the psalms: The invention of antiphony: when my heart broke in two, … Continue reading Psalms – a summary <140
The feather flew
The feather flew, not because of anything in itself but because the air bore it along. Thus I am a feather on the breath of God. - Hildegard of Bingen Word and song from a thousand years ago flew easily and lightly again today, carrying our imaginations and spirits with them. We are grateful for all … Continue reading The feather flew
Psalm 104, 22 Sep 13
On 22 September 2013, we feature the inspirational work, music and thought of Hildegard of Bingen To support this theme with a psalm presented in a historically consistent setting, we are using the Gregorian chant as it might have been heard in monasteries and nunneries in the Rhine Valley in her time, the 12th century. … Continue reading Psalm 104, 22 Sep 13
Psalms in the South 