It's important to note that the reasons for learning the Psalms can vary widely among individuals and religious denominations. Some people may find great spiritual solace in the Psalms, while others may appreciate them primarily for their cultural and historical significance or literary beauty. Ultimately, the decision to learn the Psalms should align with one's personal beliefs, interests, and spiritual journey.
Within Central Psalms to Know, you will learn 10 significant psalms worth fully knowing. Each psalm in this book will let you compare the text of the Tanakh, NIV and KJV of each. Each psalm will also provide you with some light commentary, historical facts and even some fun and interesting facts that you didn’t know. After each psalm are a few reflective questions.
It's important to note that the reasons for learning the Psalms can vary widely among individuals and religious denominations. Some people may find great spiritual solace in the Psalms, while others may appreciate them primarily for their cultural and historical significance or literary beauty. Ultimately, the decision to learn the Psalms should align with one's personal beliefs, interests, and spiritual journey.
Within Central Psalms to Know, you will learn 10 significant psalms worth fully knowing. Each psalm in this book will let you compare the text of the Tanakh, NIV and KJV of each. Each psalm will also provide you with some light commentary, historical facts and even some fun and interesting facts that you didn’t know. After each psalm are a few reflective questions.
Psalm 23
*Psalm 23 is one of the Bible’s most well-known and beloved passages, and it holds significant religious and spiritual meaning for Christians and Jews alike.
*Psalm 23 is attributed to King David, who was a king and a renowned psalmist and songwriter. According to tradition, David wrote many of the Psalms found in the Book of Psalms, including this one. However, among scholars, the author of this psalm is debated, as Solomon, David’s son, built the temple mentioned in the last line of the psalm after David was deceased.
*It is thought of that Moses passed away the afternoon of Shabbat, and he was known for being the faithful shepherd of the Jews, therefore Psalm 23 is recited during Shabbat.
*Psalm 23 is often recited or quoted in times of comfort, solace, or reflection. It is a powerful expression of faith, trust in God’s guidance, and the assurance of God’s presence even in difficult times. Many people find great comfort and inspiration in the words of this psalm.
*What is a marriage without Psalm 23? Psalm 23 is a significant prayer that is said prior to the union of a husband and wife to ensure the marriage stays holy and pure and offers comfort and assurance, guidance and direction.
*The first four verses contain an extended metaphor: God is the shepherd, and the psalmist is a sheep belonging to his flock. The fundamental points expressed in the metaphor are the interrelated dimensions of protection and provision.[1]
*This psalm has profoundly impacted art, literature, and music throughout history. It has been referenced and incorporated into numerous works of art and literature and set to music by composers in various traditions.
*The term rod used in verse 4 is typically improperly interpreted. Most assume it is interpreted to be an instrument solely for discipline. A rod is an instrument carried around the waist to be used to fend off predators of the sheep to protect them. The rod was also used to bring unruly sheep back into the flock. Lastly, the shepherd used the rod to assist in counting sheep. As the sheep passed under the rod, they were counted (Lev 27:32).
*Many oils are used throughout the Old Testament, and the direct translation of the term oil is often referred to as olive oil. However, there is more to having olive oil poured over one’s head than meets the eye. Exodus 30 tells us precisely what was used for anointing oil. Yes, olive oil is just one ingredient and the main ingredient. Cassia oil, calamus oil, cinnamon oil, and myrrh oil were added. If you want to make some, here are the estimated ratios that were used: 35 drops of olive oil, 26 drops of cassia oil, 13 drops of calamus oil, 13 drops of cinnamon oil, and 26 drops of myrrh oil.
*Psalm is commonly taught using the 6 ‘S’ method:
He provides:
Satisfaction (23:1)
Serenity (23:2)
Strength (23:3)
Safety (23:4)
Sustenance (23:5)
Security (23:6)
Psalm 23, Tanakh
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He causes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Even when I walk in the valley of darkness, I will fear no evil for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff - they comfort me.
You set a table before me in the presence of my adversaries; You anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows.
May only goodness and kindness pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for length of days.
Psalm 23, NIV
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Psalm 23, KJV
The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord
Forever.
When comparing the Tanakh, NIV and the KJV for this psalm, what differences do you notice?
What verse stands out to you? Why?
How should I live my life based on what I have read?
Why do you think this psalm was written?
What are the key words in this psalm?
What did you learn about God in this psalm?
Endnotes
[1] Peter C. Craigie, Psalms 1–50, 2nd ed., vol. 19, Word Biblical Commentary (Nashville, TN: Nelson Reference & Electronic, 2004), 205.
Central Psalms to Know by D.G. Reagle is a carefully curated selection of religious psalms, which encourages readers to engage with wider conversations and debates. Think "religious book club", for smaller congregations.
Each of the ten psalms are prefaced with a short introduction with analysis between the variations presented in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh), the New International Version (NIV) and the King James Version (KJV) scriptures. Reagle's analysis is presented in the format of bullet points spanning between one and two pages. Introductory notes include observations and titbits of information readers might not be aware of, giving the impression of direct and punchy insights, a lot like the pop-up format often deployed by film and TV. Following the introduction, there are the three differing versions of the psalms, and then a follow-up page of questions which aim to promote healthy conversation within groups, or spiritual reflection for solo readers. The psalms contained in this collection are 23, 27, 51, 46, 139, 91, 22, 1, 150, 119.
The book as a whole is a well considered collection by Reagle and nicely formatted in such a way that makes the psalms engaging. It is a book which anyone can enjoy, regardless of individual religious perspective or outlook. It opens up educational access to religious texts to a broad spectrum of audiences. The bullet point format feels more geared up to readers wanting to drop in and out of the book, as opposed to those wanting to read the book cover to cover in one sitting.
Central Psalms to Know is a good book, presented by a well-informed and accredited author on theological studies. A solid starting point for new and established readers of theological texts, the only piece of feedback would be that the lack of an overarching introduction does Reagle's talents a disservice. A rationale behind why these ten psalms were selected for the collection specifically would have helped.
It's a thumbs up from me!
AEB Reviews