Customer Reviews

Word Biblical Commentary, Vol. 19: Psalms 1-50

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Here is what to expect with this commentary on Psalms 1-50:
- in-depth analysis of the purpose a psalm played in Israelite liturgy. Its purpose helps the reader today to better understand any psalm
- interaction with other ancient near eastern literature, when relevant
- textual notes on the Hebrew, with his own careful translation. He notes when the text is confusing, for example, but walks the reader through the issues
- a good section called "Comment," in which Craigie covers the important points, theology, and usage of the psalm
- and a concluding section called "Explanation" that connects the psalm to New Testament or Christian theology, to present-day concerns of Christians. He often says something helpful and edifying.

I recommend the volume highly. Even without knowledge of Hebrew, the reader will benefit from it. And for those with Hebrew and some background in the ancient near east (and in the historiography of this literature), it is probably the best, more recent work available.

Peter Craigie was to write the entire commentary on Psalms. His untimely death left this legacy of inspiring, intelligent, faithful survey work of Psalms 1-50 in a commentary series that occassionally gives up scholarship for conservative bias.

This is a superb survey of Psalms interpretation, and his own reflection and hermeneutic is inspiring in the least. Use it above even the likes of Casemann, Mays, and Bruegemann.

Joseph A. Weaks