the Psalms
Dr. John Goldingay began tonight’s course about the Psalms by mentioning a former student’s linguistic invention: a psalmster is a person who writes psalms. The mere sound of this evolutionary term reminds me of the controversial online music distribution program which came under regulation in the past decade. Unlike Napster, the Psalms are currently available to read (and hear, even) without monetary cost. What are some of the reasons for the Psalms?
Psalms are a tool of expression. The root hll, meaning praise, from the Hebrew word that is ascribed to the groupings we call the Psalms. It is also the root for a word common to religious traditions in many languages today: hallelujah.
The Psalms can also be a source of comfort. My mother used to read the Psalms to me at night, when scary things seemed to attempt to disrupt my rest, keeping sleep from my tired mind. I carry on this tradition with my own children. When my six year old son found himself worried about bothersome dreams a few weeks ago, I read to him from the Psalms. The next morning he came to me and stated that we should read together from the book of God more often.
Conclusive thoughts: while modern advertisements recommend medications with ironic lists of side effects, perhaps we may find better rest in an ancient way of reflection.