How to Read and Understand the Psalms

by Bruce K. Waltke, Fred G. Zaspel

An Introduction to the Psalms from Biblical Scholars Bruce K. Waltke and Fred G. Zaspel  Written over the course of 1,000 years, the book of Psalms is a collection of religious poetry voicing a wide variety of human emotions expressed in different genres―imprecatory psalms, psalms of praise, and more. It has become one of the most popular books of the Bible, but most readers have only a surface level understanding of the Psalms and how it fits into the larger historical and scriptural context. In  How to Read and Understand the Psalms , Bruce K. Waltke and Fred G. Zaspel give readers tools to learn how to properly interpret and internalize the Psalms. Developed primarily from decades of lectures by Waltke, they explain the various types of psalms, Hebrew poetry, rhetorical techniques, and more. Armed with these tools, believers will discover how the 150 psalms can further fuel their knowledge and love of God. 

Genres: Theology, Christian, Spirituality, Christianity, Christian Living, Old Testament, Nonfiction

608 pages, Hardcover

Published June 20, 2023

About the author

Bruce K. Waltke is Distinguished Professor of Old Testament at Knox Theological Seminary, Fort Lauderdale, and professor emeritus of biblical studies at Regent College, Vancouver.

Reviews

[Peyton Gunter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful content that’s arranged very poorly imo.
The chapters are long and seem unorganized to me, but I’m glad I have this book.
The cover is also really pretty, and I love judging books by their cover.

[Kevin Halloran · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic, comprehensive introduction to the Psalms. Scholarly yet accessible, I found this book a treasure trove of information for the head and heart. I unfortunately had to skip many of the expositions of psalms this first read through, but I hope to finish them soon.

This book was based on a free course on the Psalms available at biblicaltraining.org.

[Brother Brandon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read! Read it every morning along with my psalm readings. The authors (Waltke and Zaspel) cover a lot of ground in these 600 pages, but it's very readable. Scholarly and critical, but not dry. It ignited my praying of the Psalms and deepened my relationship with them quite a lot. I would recommend this as a good introduction to the Psalms and contemporary scholarship on it.

They touch on the different kinds of Psalms (praise, lament, messianic, liturgical, royal, etc.) and give expositions for examples of each; a canonical approach to the Psalter; and, literary devices of Hebrew poetry and how it shapes our interpretation of the Psalms.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was excited about this book as the introduction mentioned the aim of this book was to make the knowledge therein accessible to the lay person. This is a very good book, but it misses the mark on making the information accessible to all— it reads like a text book and it requires focus to read for comprehension. It’s worth the effort, but make no mistake, it does require effort.

I’d like to thank both Crossway and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sam Hensel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a helpful review but I really feel like this helped me read and understand the psalms

[Josh Anders · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this one! The first section of the book was most helpful for me. The latter 2/3 basically act as a soft commentary to put the tools you’re learning into practice. This book is a superb gift to the church.

[Ryle]

Such a helpful book for anyone looking to get a better idea of how to approach the Psalms. It's not a commentary, but in a sense it does something more valuable than any individual commentary, because it teaches the audience how to read Psalms for themselves.

[Conrade Yap · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Psalms is the most if not one of the most beloved books in the Bible. Many preachers love to preach from the Psalms. Containing a rich compendium of praise, poetry, prayer, theology, and worship, many people identify deeply with the Psalms as they go through the ups and downs of life. Many New Testament writers have also referenced the Psalms. The Psalms have inspired many songs. They are the official Prayer Book of the Jews. They teach us how to pray. They encourage us to be completely honest with God. The five major sections of the Psalms parallel the Pentateuch. In that sense, they mark out a brief history of Israel. While it is one thing to read and cherish the Psalms, interpreting and preaching on it can be tough. That is why it is also one of the most difficult to understand. The intent of this book is to equip readers, preachers, and laypersons with some fundamental skills in reading and understanding the Psalms. The content is mostly credited to the highly respected Dr. Bruce Waltke, who has spent the bulk of his life as an Old Testament scholar. In this book, readers are treated to a rich collection of fundamental tips to remember when reading the Psalms. Covering many important segments of the 150 Psalms, we learn about the Psalter in broad terms. We learn the different interpretive frameworks for understanding the Psalms. this is in line with the type of psalms. While many people would follow the Psalms in a chronological manner, or refer to them by their psalm numerical notations, there is a better way to interpret the Psalms. That is via the nature of the psalm concerned. For instance, there are the didactic psalms (of instruction), those that instruct us on the righteous way of life. There are various forms of praise psalms that teach us the power of worship. There are the psalms of trust which inspire us to be assured in the promises of God. There are also the lament psalms that show us how much God understands our human conditions. There are the royal psalms of David as well as the Psalms of Ascents which are also pilgrimage psalms. Apart from the genre concerned, there are the superscripts and postscripts that tell us about the composition and intent of the psalm.

The first part of the book deals with the interpretive frameworks necessary to understand the Psalms. We learn about the need to identify the type of psalm based on the clues available in the texts. We are called to approach the text both as a "scientist and a saint." That means we learn to study as well as to savor the text in worship. This provides us a good balance when we open up the Psalms for devotion.

My Thoughts
==============
There are many things to like about this book. Let me offer three thoughts. First, it gives us a fresh perspective in understanding the Psalms. By teaching us to pay special attention to the superscripts and postscripts, we learn about the little contexts behind each psalm concerned. Whether it is for the choir leader or to give us the origin of the psalm, it gives us helpful preliminary information to aid us in our use. The three appendices themselves contain a treasure of valuable tips and information. The authors generously include in the appendix a detailed description of how to use these devices as well as a canonical approach to the Psalms. There is also a summary of the different types of psalms mentioned. The introduction to the Psalms is one of the best I have ever read. Beginning with the general framework of how to approach the psalms, the authors map out the paths clearly before closing with an illuminating exposition of Psalm 1. Just like how Psalm 1 introduces one to the rest of the 149 Psalms, the introduction gives us a preview of the rest of the book. What is personally helpful for me is the thoughtful explanation of the different kinds of psalms and the respective ways needed to approach them.

Second, I like the point about approaching the psalms both as a scientist as well as a saint. If I might add, it also parallels the approaches of a scholar as well as a worshiper. Both need to be held together. Sometimes, there are people who over-emphasize one over the other. This book provides a good balance, although I suspect some readers might deem this book too scholarly for a layperson's comfort. For that matter, I urge patience. Do not let the technical aspect of the book discourage the reading. That is why the more technical aspects of the book are pushed to the appendices, lest they hold up the reader in technical jargon. I must credit the authors for being sensitive to the general reader, who might not have the Hebrew or Old Testament background to appreciate the texts. For that reason, it might be helpful for laypersons to read this book together with a trained scholar, pastor, or seminary student.

Finally, I recommend this book as a primer to study the Psalms. While preachers and teachers can benefit a lot from the book, laypersons too can appreciate the way this book opens up the study of the Psalms. Apart from the genre notations, there are detailed descriptions of the nature of the genre to show us the meaning and the spirit of the psalm. Rather than individual psalms, the authors have put together the related psalms for us to appreciate how they all fit together. Imagine studying one psalm and seeing how it mirrors and reflects the insights from other psalms. Sometimes, many of us study the psalms in isolation. This book gives us ample tools to go beyond that. The bibliography is a valuable addition to help advanced readers.

This book is a must-have for anyone interested in the Psalms.

Rating: 5 stars of 5.

Bruce K. Waltke (ThD, Dallas Theological Seminary; PhD, Harvard University) is Professor Emeritus of Old Testament Studies at Regent College and Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Old Testament at Knox Theological Seminary. He is the author of An Old Testament Theology and commentaries on Genesis, Micah, and Proverbs. Bruce is a member at Advent Anglican Church in Woodinville, Washington.

Fred G. Zaspel (PhD, Free University of Amsterdam) serves as a pastor at Reformed Baptist Church in Franconia, Pennsylvania, an adjunct professor of systematic theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and executive editor at Books At a Glance. He is the author of The Theology of B. B. Warfield and Warfield on the Christian Life, coauthor of New Covenant Theology, and has published numerous booklets, articles, and book reviews. Rating:

conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Crossway Publishers via NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

[Eva B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great resource for learning about the Psalms.

I found it easy to read and not too technical: I read it over the course of a couple of months.

[Grant Carter]

Very accessible book on the Psalms. A little long but very easy to read.

[James Shrimpton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply tremendous.

An accessible and excellent introduction to the book of Psalms as a whole, along with example expositions of individual texts.

One of the most helpful books I've ever had the pleasure of reading.

[George Herndon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really helpful book and easily accessible. Sometimes his thought process reminded me of Dug from the movie “Up.”

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

How to Read and Understand the Psalms is an outstanding introduction to the Psalms from biblical scholars Bruce K. Waltke and Fred G. Zaspel. This book will help you “get behind” the Psalms to understand the thoughts and intentions of the authors.

I was most interested to learn of the actual liturgical setting of the Psalms, particularly David’s innovations of their use in worship. The authors call the Psalms artistic proclamation. David provided staging and music to accompany Mosaic rituals. Expression and worship was more external, physical, and structured. It entailed more the senses of sight and smell. The Psalter has the setting of singing, stringed instruments, and trumpets. “Essentially, he transformed the sacred ceremonies into opera.” This brought about an entire paradigm shift in the way I read the Psalms and imagining them heard in my head.


Meaning and Message

What makes this book unique is the way that it walks you through individual Psalms. This book is more than a commentary. Walke and Zaspel provide guided instruction in truly getting the meaning and message out of carefully considering the text. I was reminded that we must read the Psalms thoughtfully. This is true of all poetry, but especially because of the particulars of Hebrew poetry. Parallel ism, brevity, and terseness, and imagery, and figures of speech are prevalent.

While calling the Psalter a "hymnbook" is justified, we must remember that this is a book that has been carefully arranged to proclaim a message. The book ends by looking at the big picture, and seeing how the book of Psalms moves from lament to praise. The flow of the Psalter can be read redemptive-historically, pointing us to the confirmation of God’s kingdom under the rule of the King.


I received a media copy of How to Read and Understand the Psalms and this is my honest review.

[Travis Wise · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not lacking in insight, but organizationally it just can’t decide what it wants to be. The title points to a semi-laymen, non-scholarly audience—and the approachability of the writing confirms this—but the 500+ pages says otherwise. It positions itself as an introduction to the Psalms, but then it exegetes—to varying degrees of thoroughness—a third of the Psalter (50+ psalms), making you wonder, is this a cover-to-cover read, or a reference?? (The answer: neither, really; not well, at least). As an introduction, it’s incredibly long (again, those 500+ pages), and uneven (the result of it being based on a lifetime of Waltke lectures, now being organized and penned by Zaspel as editor); but as a reference, it’s incomplete… at least if you were going to it as a traditional commentary. A big consistent good: it centers the Psalms on the Messiah; for someone looking for resources on how the Psalter approaches that issue (and in more than just the Messianic psalms), you could do a lot worse.

[Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

For many years I have been recommending William Binnie's 19th century treatise on the Psalms (A Pathway into the Psalter) as an excellent general introduction to the Book of Psalms and their teaching. I now have a modern work to complement Binnie. This is a superb work, providing a careful overview of the Psalms and their significance for the Christian church. The book deals with the hermeneutics of the Psalms, the royal orientation of the book, and the different types of psalms. In the process, the authors provide clear and helpful expositions of many psalms. Those expositions alone are worth the price of the book. There are three appendices, one dealing with superscripts of the psalms, one considering a canonical approach to the psalms, and then a summary of psalm forms. It's probably a difficult read for a layman, particularly one who has little to no background in biblical studies. But for students and pastors interested in the psalms, this book should not be ignored.

[Ben · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Psalter is the most cited Old Testament book by the New Testament authors, and theological giants throughout the centuries have consistently sung its praises. Yet soaking in all that the Psalms have to offer and understanding how its composers intended for it to be read is a daunting challenge.

Yet Waltke has provided a masterful study with 'How to Read and Understand the Psalms'. I cannot recommend this book enough to all looking to study the Psalms. Waltke's balance in theological depth, clarity, and devotional potency will leave the reader in the place the Biblical authors intended through their writings: Worshiping God..

Whether you are preparing for a sermon, looking to counsel a church member, or just studying for personal edification, 'How to Read and Understand the Psalms' is a true friend.

[Ben Clouston · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not read this book entirely, but used it for a sermon series in the Psalms. To that end, I found it helpful for finding the structure of Psalms, and it explains some rules of Hebrew poetry and walks the reader through examples. I would recommend using it on Logos if you are using it as an aide in sermon writing, as it will be more easily navigated.

I plan to return this book one day to read it fully.

[Taylor Bradbury · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful. Profound. Insightful. Waltke and Zaspel provide a survey of the psalms in general, while dropping down and giving detailed exegesis of about 30 individual psalms. The book helps the reader get behind the psalms into their historical context, and also deals with questions regarding genre, forms of different psalms, the shape of the psalter, and the New Testament’s use of the Psalms. I found Waltke’s “canonical process approach” to interpreting the psalms convincing.

4.25/5

[Greg Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good introduction to the Psalms from a Christian perspective. Even though it is authored by a couple of notable Biblical scholars, I think the writing is accessible to most people. It is well-written and comprehensive. It not only provides a framework for understanding the Psalms but can also serve as a good reference when trying to understand a specific Psalm.

I would recommend this to anyone with an interest in the Psalms.

[Pat Phelps · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think “How to Read and Understand the Psalms” has a hard time finding a target audience. The book is a little too advanced for a lay reader, yet probably not academic enough for the savvy theologian.

Most of the Psalms examples the authors outlined by category were helpful, and much appreciated. Otherwise, the book reads more like an intermediate text book. For someone with basic Hebrew this book could be helpful.

[Carol Custer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a detailed look at one of my favorite books of the Bible. The authors have written a book with depth and an obvious amount of research and understanding. Reading this book requires some work and it's well worth the effort.

[Jessica]

This is an amazing book! It explores how we should approach the Psalms and understand their historical setting. This is a valuable book that looks at one of the most beloved books of the Bible.

[Hunter Strength · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did not read in its totality, but found that this book is a brilliant reference work that is invaluably helpful when it comes to understanding the Psalms. I will look to it often.

[Joshua · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful, but also dense. Not an easy read, but enlightening.

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

An important and thorough work that will benefit anyone teaching, preaching or studying the Psalms.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

More academic and less devotional than I had hoped.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars

[Dane Rich · Rating 3 out of 5]

Extremely mid