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    In Context

    What Are the Psalms in the Bible — In Biblical Context

    The Psalms are a collection of 150 songs and poems in the Old Testament expressing praise, prayer, lament, and thanksgiving to God.

    Quick Answer

    The Psalms are a collection of 150 songs and poems in the Old Testament expressing praise, prayer, lament, and thanksgiving to God.

    "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." — Psalm 23:1 (KJV)

    The Biblical Context

    The Book of Psalms is the longest book in the Bible, written by multiple authors including David (who wrote about half), Asaph, the Sons of Korah, Solomon, and Moses. The Psalms cover every human emotion—from ecstatic praise (Psalm 150) to deep despair (Psalm 88), from confident trust (Psalm 23) to honest questioning (Psalm 13). They are organized into five books, possibly mirroring the five books of Moses. Jesus quoted the Psalms more than any other Old Testament book. They remain central to Christian worship, prayer, and devotional life, teaching believers how to honestly communicate with God in every season of life.

    Where It Sits in Scripture

    The core passage for this question, Psalm 23:1, sits inside Psalms 23. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.

    "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want."
    — Psalm 23:1 (KJV)

    Supporting Passages

    Psalm 119:105
    "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
    Psalm 150:1
    "Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power."

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    Meaning

    Plain-language explanation

    Related Verses

    Cross-reference KJV verses

    Full Answer

    The complete Bible answer page

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