Biblical Exegesis of Psalm 89

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The Hebrew Bible, better known as the Old Testament, is a collection of tomes that form part of the Biblical canon. Many scholars around the world do not think that a single author wrote the books contained in the Hebrew Bible, but rather that it represents centuries of stories frequently compiled after the events they describe . The stories were created with visions for the future, in order to allow audiences insight into communities and beliefs that were common thought during their era. The stories responded to the issues and problems of their time, but also addressed contemporary climates. While the stories themselves may not be true, they convey truth without needing literal readings. For example, the creation stories in Genesis, portray God as creating the universe, and while this is considered as not ‘literally true’; the stories communicate theological truths about mankind’s relationship with God through the eyes of Hebrew writers .

The Book of Psalms is split into five books according to the material contained in them. There are 150 psalms in the entire book and together they form the “hymnal of Israel” . The word ‘psalm’ means ‘praise’, a common theme throughout the book. Most Conservative Jewish and Christian theologians believe that 73 psalms were written by David, 12 by Asaph (a musician in David's court), 10 by the "Sons of Korah;" 2 by Solomon; 1 each by Ethan, Heman and Moses. Most were written in the hundred years following 1030 BCE . In contrast, most religious liberals believe that the psalms form and use in worship services originated from Pagan nations surrounding Israel.

Psalm 89 of the Book of Psalms, advocates the message of consequentialism, foreground by man’s relationship with God, with direct lin...

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Sailhamer, J. H. (1999). N.I.V Compact Biblical Commentary. Zondervan.

Smith, D. (n.d.). Why did God punish King David for taking a Census? Retrieved May 17, 2011, from BibleSudy.org: http://www.biblestudy.org/question/why-did-god-punish-king-david-for-taking-a-census.html

Vardy, P. (n.d.). The Book of Jonah.

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