READ IT! - Introduction to Psalms 42-47

Readings for this week

Monday: Numbers 36

Tuesday: Psalm 42

Wednesday: Psalm 43

Thursday: Psalm 44

Friday: Psalm 45

Saturday: Psalm 46

Sunday: Psalm 47

Introduction to Psalms 42-47

Book II

Psalms 42-43

Several of the psalms that we find starting here in Book II of the Psalms are attributed to a group of people who referred to themselves as “The Sons of Korah.” Many of their psalms deal with some of the darker issues of human existence, such as dealing with death and depression.

Many of these psalms hint at the theme of resurrection from “Sheol” or the realm of the grave.

As the first Korah (see the Book of Numbers) fell into Sheol alive, so “The Sons of Korah” sing of being raised up out of Sheol alive.

In many Hebrew manuscripts Psalms 42 and 43 constitute one psalm.

The writer sings, “As the deer pants for water, so my soul longs for you, O God. Your waves break over me. Why are you downcast, O my soul? Hope in God.”

He continues, “Vindicate me, O God. Why have you rejected me? Send forth your light and your truth. Why are you downcast, O my soul? Hope in God.”

Psalm 44

The Sons of Korah sing, “O God, our fathers have told us how you drove out the nations. But now you have sold your people. Awake, O Lord! Rise up and help us.”

The “ungodly nation” referred to here may have been the Arameans of Damascus. Perhaps the author had been taken captive by the Arameans during one of their incursions into Judah.

Psalm 45

This psalm by the Sons of Korah was to be sung at weddings. It was based on a popular tune at the time that went by the title “Lilies”. This song was probably used at more than one royal wedding in David’s dynasty.

It says, “My heart overflows with verses for the king. Your God has anointed you with gladness. All glorious is the princess in her chamber.”

Psalm 46

The Sons of Korah say, “God is our refuge. We will not fear, though the earth give way. The nations rage, kingdoms fall. For God says, ‘Be still and know that I am God.’"

Psalm 47

The Sons of Korah say, “Clap your hands, you nations. How awesome is the LORD Most High! Sing praises to our God, sing praises. He is king of all the earth.”