Psalms- Part 1: Volume XIV, The Forms of the Old Testament Literature (FOTL)

Erhard Gerstenberger begins this volume with an examination of the nature of cultic poetry, its role in ancient Near Eastern religion, and more specifically its role in the religion of Israel. He goes on to survey the genres of cultic poetry, including lament, complaint, and thanksgiving. He then focuses on the book of Psalms as an example of cultic poetry, first analyzing the book as a whole and then working through Psalms 1-60 unit by unit, discussing structure, genre, setting, and intention. Extensive bibliographies and a glossary of genres and formulas further enhances the work. This volume provides the background information and framework from which scholars and serious students can make informed interpretations of the Psalms.