A Commentary on the Psalms, Psalms 1-41: Volume 1

Commentary on the Psalms #1

by Allen P. Ross

For thousands of years, the Book of Psalms has been one of God's people's richest resources for expression of worship and development of the spiritual life. At the same time it is one of the more complex and challenging sections of the Bible for expositors. Pastors, teachers, and all serious students of the Bible will find this commentary invaluable for developing their understanding of the Psalms and for improving their ability to expound it with precision and depth.

For each psalm, Dr. Allen Ross guides the reader through a detailed exegetical outline, proposes a homiletical outline, and offers a summary expository idea of the message of the whole psalm.

The commentary includes discussion throughout of three primary challenges to understanding the Psalms: Textual issues: Every major textual difficulty is addressed in order to help the expositor understand the interpretive issues and make decisions when there are multiple available readings.Poetic language: The Psalms are full of poetic imagery, devices and structures. Ross discusses this "language" of Hebrew poetry in its context with each psalm, specifying the precise devices being used and how they work in the psalm.The Psalms' Hebrew grammar and syntax pose a challenge to many expositors, whether they are familiar with Hebrew or not. This commentary illuminates Hebrew constructions word meanings in a way that is helpful both to readers who are comfortable with Hebrew and those who are not.

Genres: Biblical Studies, Old Testament, Theology

944 pages, Hardcover

First published January 31, 2011

Reviews

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a lay person who is a 'serious student of the Bible'. I read the exposition of Genesis by Ross entitled Creation and Blessing and became a fan of him and his style. That exposition was perfect for me and my level of development as is this commentary/exposition of the Psalms. According to Ross it's "for pastors, teachers and all serious students of the Bible." This commentary isn't quite as academic as Goldingay's, but is very beefy and didn't leave me wanting at all. In fact, he answers questions I didn't know I had. It would be a little much for a new Christian, especially the introduction. At nearly 900 pages for volume 1 of 3, it may also look a little intimidating.

I find introductions to commentaries extremely helpful. This one is fairly long and extremely informative, and even motivating. One of the most 'valuable' parts of the Introduction is The Value of the Psalms. He quotes quite a few people from different time periods, including Calvin, and writes about the importance of the Psalms, how this importance used to be realized, and how the church in general has lost the value and stopped using the Psalms as a model for prayer and use in worship, beyond a cursory reading here and there. This has inspired me to spend more time with the Psalms and this is the type of commentary that can be used in sort of a devotional way, for lack of a better term.

There are quite a few subjects dealt with using just the right amount of words, a few of them being Literary Forms, Theology of the Psalms and a guide to Exposition of the Psalms should you want to tackle one yourself if you're not up to that level.

Ross is experienced in teaching the exposition of the Psalms in the seminary classroom and expounding them in churches, and has gained a good sense of what needs to be explained in a concise way, which I think shows in this commentary.

As opposed to taking a verse or line from a Psalm for a message (or plaque?) Ross says, "the exposition should cover the entire psalm, and that it should not only explain the text verse-by-verse but also show how the message of the psalm unfolds section-by-section. After all, a psalm is a piece of literature and therefore has a unified theme and a progression of thoughts developing that theme." He has "not included views down the history of interpretation" but mainly sticks to his own exposition except for various quotes from others used sparingly. This is definitely not a 'commentary on commentaries'.

Some Hebrew words are shown and explained. There are no transliterations, which aren't helpful anyway. For those who don't know the language, he describes the words in a pretty understandable way. Footnotes deal further with Hebrew, Greek (Septuagint) and various English translations.

Each Psalm has his own fairly literal/formal translation along with textual variant issues dealt with in the footnotes. Then Composition and Context, Exegetical Analysis (an outline), Commentary in Expository Form, and Message and Application.

He seems to answer most or all of my questions as mentioned before. Ross explains many of the terms, phrases and Hebrew idioms that people like me can learn from. For pastors it can help in wording explanations. In Psalm 13 for example, Ross explains why it is a lament, how the text shows that the trouble is ongoing, what the significance of an asposiopesis is, and explains what 'remember' means in this context.

I have been given a copy of the book by Kregel Publications for an unbiased review. I'm afraid I sound like it's not very unbiased because the review is all so positive. The only possible negative thing I can find at this point is the typeface is a little on the large size for me. A bit smaller and the book wouldn't be so large and wouldn't have as much of a "rudimentary" look, because it's not. The quality of the paper is very good and the cover design bound to the hard cover (no need for a silly dust jacket) is very classy.

I think this commentary would be valuable for nearly anyone. I would only rule out new Christians as mentioned before because they might get lost with many of the theological terms and subjects, especially in the introduction, even though it isn't at a high academic or technical level. For those who are motivated though, I'm sure they would benefit in some way and it would be a good investment for the future.

Ross mentions that volume 3 will have a bibliography and writes about how important it is to have more than one source and emphasized that this isn't the only commentary one should own. If I can afford it, I plan on acquiring the other volumes if and when they come out, maybe by the time you read this.

Buy it at Amazon

[Caleb Stallings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rather helpful in terms of exegetical heavy lifting, and also helpful with organizing the overarching themes in the individual Psalms, but felt a bit anemic in Christological readings and application. Ross is unparalleled in structuring outlines of Scripture, but I wish there would have been more of an ecclesial application in mind. Very good, still.

[Craig Hurst · Rating 4 out of 5]

When it comes to the Psalms, like some other books, it seems that commentaries are all over the map and there are few and far between that are worthy of ones time. Let’s be honest though, it is the longest book in the Bible and is not at the center of many, if any, theological debates. For many it provides great comforting devotional material and for others it is the hymnal of the church. I dare say that many, if any, preachers have not preached through the Psalms. And maybe there is good reason for this.

When it comes to deeply exegetical commentaries on the Psalms there is very little to offer. Outside of the Word, Tyndale, NACOT (only the 2nd so far)and NIVACOT series there are not many and there is nothing within the NICOT to date. In an effort to provide a solid exposition of the Psalms Allen P. Ross has turned his years of research and study on the Psalms into a commentary for Kregel, A Commentary on the Psalms: Vol. 1 (1-41). This is the first of three volumes by Ross.

The introduction of the book covers a number of issues related to the Psalms. Among other things there is a short history of the interpretation of Psalms, discussion on the various types of Psalms (praise, lament, etc.), a guide on types of literary features within the various Psalms and a short intro to the theology of the Psalms. Concluding the introduction is a brief overview of the exegetical method employed throughout the book. Ross offers a number of helpful tips and guidelines for the exegesis process. Each chapter follows the same structure:

1. Introduction – The Psalm itself, including textual variants in the footnotes.
2. Composition and Context – This looks at the overall features of the Psalm and the historical, theological, biblical and literary context of each individual Psalm.
3. Exegetical Analysis – This includes a one line summary of the message of the Psalm and the basic outline.
4. Commentary in Expository Form – This is the bulk of each chapter and is an exposition of the Psalm following the exegetical analysis outline.
5. Message and Application – As the heading states this is the application section. Here contemporary application is drawn while looking towards the New Testament as well.

As an exegetical commentary time will tell how well received it will be but I trust it will be well liked and recommended by exegetes, scholars, teachers and pastors. This commentary is written for the pastor with the layman in mind as well. The only area in which it might have improved was in the theology of the Psalms as a book and as individuals but that is not the primary purpose of the book. Ross is keen on exegesis and models it well. He has a good grasp of how the Psalms speak to all of life’s experiences and how the Psalms still speak to the church today. I recommend Psalms by Ross for all pastors, Bible students and laymen alike.

NOTE: I received this book from Kregel in return of a review but was under no obligation to provide a favorable review.

[Jason Gardner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ross’s introductory section (180 pages!) covers some of the typical issues (date, authorship, provenance, etc.) encountered in most commentaries, but he doesn’t devote whole sections to them. He instead intersperses discussion of these issues throughout the commentary itself as he finds them relevant. His attention then is paid to matters that are more particular to the psalter: abbreviations, the psalms’ value, the text and versions of the psalms, and titles and headings. Reading through these chapters shows the reader the psalms’ truly variegated nature. Following these chapters, Ross attends to other matters that are more broadly applicable, but important for understanding the psalms. These chapters cover the history of interpretation (which shows quite a diversity of approaches), biblical poetry (a notoriously untamable beast!), literary forms and functions in the psalms, theology of the psalms, and an exposition of the psalms. I won’t deal with these sections except to say they are helpful in equipping the reader with the appropriate tools necessary to begin the interpretive process in the psalter.

The first psalm I chose to evaluate is arguably the most important in the entire collection—Psalm 1. It’s place at the head of the psalter is not accidental and, as Ross argues, it along with Psalm 2 sets the theme for the whole psalter: the way the righteous are to live among the ungodly and the salvation the righteous have in their divinely chosen king (182). Psalm 1 is indeed concerned with the comparison of the righteous and the wicked and Ross ably works through the details so that the reader is clear on some of the important nuances in the descriptions. One aspect here I appreciate is his attention to the description of the ungodly (which plays out primarily in the footnotes). Discussing each of the three terms used to describe these “ungodly” each bear a slightly different nuance and drawing such distinctions can prevent unnecessary and inaccurate depictions of those outside the faith. Ross also draws attention to the apparent escalation of the descriptions of the two groups as well as to the verbs used to describe their actions (or inaction in the case of the righteous). All this reinforces the point—to enjoy the “heavenly blessedness” of God is to pursue life in the fashion of the righteous and abstain from undue influence from the ungodly. In general, Ross’s interpretation of this psalm is fairly consistent with how I understand it (not a claim to the veracity of said interpretation!) and there’s nothing here that one probably wouldn’t find in most standard commentaries.

Psalm 2 is a regal psalm that serves to remind God’s people of His plan for them in the absence of a Davidic king (199-200). Here, as in the previous psalm, Ross offers a fairly straightforward interpretation that would find resonance with more conservative interpreters, though I don’t know that those who are less conservative would find much to disagree about. I certainly don’t consider that a bad thing, for I myself am in that camp more times than not. One thing that readers will notice here is that Ross does not spend a great deal of time tackling matters of how this psalm (or part of it) is used in the NT, specifically in Hebrews 1. While he addresses the language of sonship in footnote 25 (p. 208), he leaves it at that and focuses on the psalm itself in the commentary.

Psalm 22 presents several challenges to interpreters, a couple of which are understanding the textual variants and how it (the psalm) is interpreted Christologically. Ross gives some attention to the text-critical questions, but keeps things fairly manageable due to the nature of the commentary, namely to remain accessible. Though I personally do not enjoy reading about and sorting through text-critical issues, it is a good and necessary part of exegesis and Ross makes the issues fairly understandable without oversimplifying them. As to the matter of Christological appropriation of the psalm, Ross claims that though Christians will find it nearly impossible to read the psalm and not think of Christ’s suffering, we must first read it in light of the psalmist’s experience of suffering. Once readers can interpret the psalm in its original context can the parallels and Christological overtones be seen and heard. Ross handles this psalm in the same erudite manner as those before and after it, providing a solid interpretation supplemented with abundant discussions of various theologically significant vocabulary in the footnotes.

Psalm 23, arguably the most well-known psalm of the whole collection, is also ably handled by Ross. In fact, of the four psalms I focused on, this was the most enjoyable to read. This is due partly to the general familiarity I have of the psalm, but also because of Ross’ explanation of the text (what’s a commentary for if not that!). While certainly this psalm is committed to the memories of many in the KJV or other older translation, Ross demonstrates a number of points concerning how one translates the psalm that show more accurate ways in which to translate it. As with the previous psalms (and others I skimmed), there are grammatical references aplenty! Overall, Ross’ exegesis of the 23rd psalm is solid and thoroughly readable.

Though I’ve not read many commentaries on the psalter (and what I have read has been on particular psalms, never a whole volume), I’ve worked with them enough to know what I expect from the commentary in general and whether or not it will be helpful to the overall interpretive process. I can say that after my examination of Ross’s commentary I am assured that many will find great help in this volume (and presumably the coming volumes 2 and 3), even those whose training in Hebrew far exceed my own.

Perhaps the most commendable aspect of this commentary is its accessibility, a goal that many commentators either eschew or miss altogether. To benefit from Ross’ commentary one need not have advanced knowledge of Hebrew to work through the exegetical discussions. However, some facility in Hebrew will be beneficial, perhaps even necessary, to fully benefit from Ross’s work. Ross, whom I know primarily through his introductory Hebrew grammar, offers plenty in the way of grammatical analysis and categorization of usage. While for me this is helpful, it may not be to some, only because some of the categories require minor explanations (which are standard fare in Hebrew grammars). In fact, it’s the one element that stands out about this volume in comparison to other commentaries on the same level, which is why I say some facility in Hebrew will help gain the fullest benefit from the commentary (just keep Ross’s grammar handy and you’re good to go!).

Another feature that I appreciate is the absence of transliterations. I am no fan of them so I was glad to see that Ross does not employ it, but rather puts terms/phrases being discussed in quotes as a translation and provides the Hebrew in parentheses. I also appreciate the relegation of more technical discussion to the footnotes (and by implication the absence of endnotes!), which of course is the whole purpose of footnotes, thereby providing opportunities for deeper study for those interested. I must admit that at times I was a little frustrated that the information I was after was in the footnotes and didn’t receive quite the attention I would have liked, but again this is in a way a commendation for Ross for keeping more technical points and discussions out of the main text.

One other interesting aspect of the commentary is its layout—each psalm is arranged structurally according to the Hebrew text, yet Ross takes another step and arranges the discussion homiletically. For those teaching or preaching through the psalms, this could be a great help.

I did encounter a few minor annoyances while reading through the commentary. For one, there is the occasional use of rather esoteric vocabulary. Because of the nature of Hebrew poetry, some technical jargon is to be expected and thankfully Ross keeps it to a minimum; yet, the presence of words such as epizeuxis and tapeinosis aren’t really necessary in a commentary written on this level, even with brief definitions provided. Second, there were a few instances in which I was hoping for a more helpful discussion in the footnotes (as I mentioned above). For example, in the discussion of Psalm 22, Ross claims that Jesus’ enemies knew Psalm 22 as a messianic psalm and thus quoted from it in order to mock and deride Jesus as he suffered (536). While I find it very likely that by the time of Christ’s death this psalm was being read through a messianic lens, Ross only points to one example from Jewish literature that substantiates this idea. I only wish there were more discussion of this. Again, this is comparatively minor complaint, especially given the detail some Hebrew words/concepts are given, but I hoped for a little more here. Third and finally, I had hoped for a little more background to explain the figurative language that permeates many of the psalms. I am certainly not saying such was entirely absent—hardly! The literal reality that stands behind figurative speech can really bring the text to life and such is the case when Ross fills us in, but it’s not quite enough to satisfy me. Again, this is more a personal preference and not necessarily a critique of Ross.

You might think that a commentary that addresses 41 psalms in just over 700 pages (for the commentary proper) would be verbose, but not so. Part of this is due to the length of some of the psalms themselves and part is due to Ross’s extensive footnoting (as previously mentioned), but in general he provides rather concise discussion for each psalm. Ross’s style is easily read and never comes across as pedantic and that makes this particular volume quite handy. Again, this series is not going to be as helpful to some (those whose own scholarly pursuits intersect with the material presented), but there is more than enough insight and exposition to benefit the vast majority of those for whom it was written. I would recommend this volume to any who are studying the psalms, but especially for those whose training in Hebrew and OT is/has been minimal.

Αυτω η δοξα

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for an evangelical commentary on the Hebrew of the Psalms, then A Commentary on the Psalms Volume 1 (1-41), by Allen P. Ross published by Kregel Publishers is the commentary you are looking for. This volume is the first in a three volume work in the very growing Kregel Exegetical Library series (KEL). KEL is a series which is synonymous with excellent exegesis and superior application, this volume continues the long legacy. This volume is one of the most in depth exegetical studies on the Psalms that I have have the privilege to read. While Ross is no stranger to Biblical commentaries this is his first foray into this first-rate commentary series, which he follows up with the final to volumes of this work.

A Commentary on the Psalms Volume 1 (1-41), begins with a through yet accessible introduction to the entire Psalter. Ross gives a spectacular see you want Circle study on the value of Psalms not only to an individual or to the rest of the Bible but to the modern-day reader. To further this and his introduction he takes painstaking effort to place the entire Pslater in the original context it was intended. This helps the student of scripture understand the original intent of the psalm instead of placing his own contextualisation on top of it. Also included in this introduction is a study on the titles and headings of the songs themselves. Concluding his introduction Ross gives a valiant defense of using Psalms in corporate worship as well as the functions of the Psalms themselves and as individual Psalms.

With regard to the commentary on individual Psalms themselves Ross gives a detailed analysis of the Hebrew text, including its composition and contacts. Furthermore he also examines any textual variants that are present in a particular song. This is particularly helpful to the Hebrew student who wishes to give a proper treatment of the Hebrew text. When Ross begins to to get his exegetical analysis on the psalm he gives a very pastoral summary as well as a detailed exegetical outline, which is gold to the exegetical preacher. Furthermore the commentary on the text itself is thorough yet not overwhelming. Each is dealt with intern foregoing the modern tendency to do passage by passage or thought by thought. What was of the greatest joy to see in this commentaries was his section on how to apply the psalm to preaching / teaching. Ross has this section at the end of each song which turns this commentary from solely exegetical commentary to an application based commentary hybrid. There are few commentaries like this on the market that are of high scholarly caliber, conservative nature, yet pastorally focused.
With regard of recommending, A Commentary on the Psalms Volume 1 (1-41), to others I would whole heartily recommend this commentary to students of scripture, with one caveat. By this I mean I recommend this work to Pastors, Bible Teachers, Bible College Students, there is enough scholarly weight to this work to understand a particular issue in the text while giving aid to pastors in preaching the text. The caveat is in rearguard to laymen, unless a person has a basic understanding of Biblical Hebrew, a person can not dive into the meat of the commentary.

There are many commentaries about the second book of the Pentateuch available at this moment but A Commentary on the Psalms Volume 1 (1-41) of the Kregel Exegetical Library series are a giant leap above all other commentaries on the first 41 Psalms of the Psalter.

These books was provided to me free of charge from Kregel Press in exchange for an unbiased, honest review.

A Commentary on the Psalms Volume 1 (1-41)

© 2012 by Allen P. Ross

Publisher: Kregel Press

Page Count: 936 Pages

ISBN: 9780825425622

[David Barnett · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the purpose of translation this was a really helpful commentary. Ross provides his own very literal translation with detailed exegetical notes on problem verses and words.
His theological message and application at the end of each exposition can feel a little cold at times - they don’t really add much to his exegetical analysis of each Psalm. But I’ll continue to refer to these commentaries for help in translating.

[Josh Shelton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful commentary that does everything that I hoped it would.

Nothing is especially exceptional, but overall this is a great resource to study The Psalms.

Great Introductory section as well.

[Carisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would give this 10 stars if I could. Well put together. Informative. On to volume 2 & 3!!

[Jon Anderson]

Used to preach on Psalms 1-10 in summer 2021. Decent. Best help was expositional outlines. But actual content can be found in other commentaries

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent exegetical commentary with good expository notes and comments.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was particularly excited about reviewing A Commentary on the Psalms, Volume 1 (1-41), part of the Kregel Exegetical Library. The Psalms are the book of the Bible I have spent the most time investigatin,g both academically and personally. I’ve studied the psalms to have them shape my prayer life and collect thoughtful commentaries, devotionals, studies and introductions to the Psalms. So Allen Ross’s commentary looked interesting to me and wanted to see what insights he gleaned from his years of study in the psalms.

But another reason that makes this book appeal to me is that it is written by Allen P. Ross. In seminary, his Introducing Biblical Hebrew was the text that laid the foundation of what I know of Hebrew grammar and syntax. So in a way I feel like Ross is one of the guys that really opened up the Hebrew scriptures for me in a fresh way and I wanted to see what he did here.

This commentary did not disappoint me. Ross represents some of the best critically engaged confessional scholarship today. Bringing his knoweldge of Hebrew to bear on the text, he translates, notates the text critical issues and makes judicious judgments on the text. Sensitive to elements of Hebrew poetics, psalm genres and life setting of the psalms he draws on a wide range of scholarship, presenting his commentary on the passage in the form of an expository outline on the text and offers brief comments on each psalm’s message and application.

But despite his obvious scholarship, what sets this book apart from other high level critical commentaries, is its readability. Ross is able to craft a commentary which is accessible to the laity and working pastor, but also one that is engaged in scholarly literature and discussion. If you’ve sat down and read commentaries cover to cover, you know that this can be a rare combination.

There are other things I liked. The commentary focuses on book 1 of the Psalms which is full of Psalms of David, royal psalms, personal laments, prayers for victory in battle and didactic hymns. Ross does a good job making this relevant to the modern Christian and his expository outlines give me a little bit of the flavor of how a passage might preach (as an occasional preacher, I like this). But before he comments on the individual psalms, he also has several introductory articles on the whole psalms which discuss the value of the psalms, their headings, the history of interpretation, the interpretation of biblical poetry, literary forms and functions, theology of the psalms and his method of exposition. A lot of this is drawn from other literature I have on my shelf, but Ross does such a good job of summarizing other commentators and representing their insights accessibly. This makes it ideal for a student of the psalms.

What Ross offers in terms of his exegetical work is a careful, attentive reading of the biblical text. I have other commentators on my shelf whose exegesis is more creative and engaging than Ross is. They challenge me to think about the text in new ways, but I disagree with them more. What I get from Ross is a more consistent and solid interpretation, often favoring a traditional understanding (i.e. he accepts the superscriptions as reliable unless a compelling reason dictates that he shouldn’t and reads carefully not suggestively). That isn’t to say that I agree with Ross on every point (or any other commentator for that matter), but I appreciate his style and attentiveness.

This is a helpful addition to the pastor’s or student’s library. I recommend this highly and look forward to the release of the next couple of volumes.

Thank you to Kregel Publications for providing me with a copy of this commentary in exchange for this review.

[Bob Hayton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very few commentaries can function as a single comprehensive resource for the Biblical passage at hand. The wise expositor makes use of theological introductions, critical comments on the Greek or Hebrew, a good exegetical commentary and then a few devotional commentaries – of course he also makes his own personal study of the passage.

What Allen P. Ross does for us in his new book, "A Commentary on the Psalms: volume 1" (Kregel, 2012), is distill the insights of decades of research and study on the book of Psalms into a single tool that can truly be a one-stop-shop for the busy pastor.

Ross provides 180 pages of introduction to the book of Psalms, focusing on structure and theology. He then gives us more than 700 pages of commentary on just the first 41 psalms. Each psalm is covered separately, the text is provided with an eye for meaningful textual variants (which are discussed at some length). The psalm’s composition and context is then briefly sketched and an exegetical analysis is provided. Then comes a detailed commentary focusing on exposition, and all this is wrapped up with a brief recounting of the message and application of the psalm.

Ross aims to help modern preachers and teachers to truly exposit all of the psalms in their entirety (not just a line here and there). He blends contemporary insights with gems of yesterday as he analyzes the Psalms and provides a very useful tool for the modern preacher. Ross with help from the team at Kregel, has crafted his tool to be most user-friendly. The font is large, there are helpful charts and diagrams, and clear section headings which break up the massive book. He uses footnotes throughout for more technical discussions, but chooses not to provide Hebrew transliterations as a rule, preferring just English translations and the Hebrew words themselves.

When we have his entire three volume commentary (at least from reading the introductory material it appears this will be three volumes), we will truly have a single and comprehensive resource for what may be the most important book in all of Scripture. His approach is to stick to the text but not to shy away from reading the text in light of the context of the NT revelation as well (at a later stage in the interpretation). Even if in some respects one differs with Ross, he will still find Ross’s book immensely helpful.

Ross shows how vital the Psalms were both for Hebrew worship and that of the early church. Even in the Reformer’s era, intimate knowledge of the psalter was a prerequisite for anyone aiming to take up a pastorate. How far we have fallen from an age where psalms made up the bulk of corporate worship. May Ross’s work help revive a study and interest in the Psalms today.

Disclaimer: This book was provided by Kregel Publications. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.

[Jimmy Reagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another commentary on the Psalms? Yes, and better than most you already have on your shelves. Mr. Ross has spent a lifetime studying the Psalms and the fruit of it is handed right to us here. The style is pastor-friendly, yet the scholarship is rich. The difference seems to be that he doesn’t feel the need to impress other scholars as he ever aims at those who handle God’s Word. I loved that he had no problem consulting literature of yesteryear thereby avoiding the ridiculous idea that only the latest commentary has anything to say to us.

The first 179 pages give a powerful introduction to the Psalms. Written to be understood, he communicates what other commentaries couldn’t touch in double the pages. When he writes on the value of the Psalms, we find out all we need to know about Mr. Ross. He loves, appreciates, and is in awe of the Psalms. He realizes the special place the Psalms have always help among God’s people. I especially liked his discussion on the titles of the Psalms. He gives good help on the different types of Psalms. These discussions are crucial to understanding the text. He well discusses how to interpret Biblical poetry, without which we are shooting in the dark. His “Psalms in Worship” are eyeopening and a good reminder on how the Lord used the Psalms in Israel. Then, he writes again about the various types of Psalms pulling out their theology.

What’s the last part of the introduction? He tells us how to develop an exposition of the Psalms. Whether you would do an exposition exactly as he would say or not, don’t you appreciate that emphasis?

Pages 181-887 cover Psalms 1-41. The depth is good. You may have some volumes on the Psalms that look thick on your shelves, but they cover all 150 Psalms and can be surprisingly thin and really not cover some verses at all. He gives background on each individual Psalm, an exegetical analysis, commentary in expository form, followed by message and application. That design is superior.

If this is what the Kregel Exegetical Library Series is going to be like, give us more. I hope Mr. Ross will give us the rest of the volumes to cover the Psalms in a timely manner. This is a winner, especially for the pastor!

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 .

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allen P. Ross in his new book, “A Commentary on the Psalms, Volume 1: 1-41″ Volume One in the Five Book Kregel Exegetical Library Series published by Kregel Publications gives us insight into the first 41 Psalms in the Bible.

From the back cover: The Book of Psalms has been the people of God’s richest resource for expressing worship and developing the spiritual life. It is also one of the more complex and challenging sections of the Bible to expound responsibly and meaningfully. Pastors, teachers, and all serious students of the Bible will find this commentary invaluable for developing their understanding of the Psalms and for improving their ability to expound it with precision and depth.

The book of Psalms in the Bible was written by individuals who were going through moments of crisis and cried out to God or moments of great praise. Psalms, at times, can be prophetic as they tell of Jesus’ coming. There is quite a lot packed into each Psalm and most of us don’t really know everything that the Psalm is saying. At least for me that is true. Allen P. Ross has provided a verses by verse, sometime word by word breakdown so that each Psalm can be understood. The more understanding we have the more we learn about God and the more we can praise Him for what we have learned. This book is a resource that will be used over and over again. I recommend this book highly. I am looking forward to the next book in this series!

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[G. A. Dietrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ask any Bible teacher out there what the best commentaries on the Psalms are and it is likely you are going to stump them. It isn’t as though there aren’t plenty of commentaries available, it is just that most of them are not always all that helpful or all that exegetically conscience. Now that doesn’t mean there are not exceptions to this generalization, however, it does seem to be the norm.

Enter in Allen P. Ross’ A Commentary on the Psalms: Volume 1 (1-41). In a lot of ways Ross’ work is much more than a commentary. Of the 928 pages in the book nearly 20% of this volume is made of introductory matters. These pages do not detract from the book, however, give it a great introduction! The topics Ross covers include:

The Value of the Psalms
Text and Ancient Versions of the Psalms
Titles and Headings of the Psalms
History of the Interpretation of the Psalms
Interpreting Biblical Poetry
Literary Forms and Functions in the Psalms
Psalms in Worship
Theology of the Psalms
Expositions of the Psalms

These chapters are extremely helpful and valuable and make the purchase of the book worth while, especially the chapters on literary forms and on theology.

Once Ross gets to the individual Psalms themselves he breaks each Psalm chapter down into an introduction looking at the text and textual variants, the composition and context, and an exegetical analysis. From there he moves to a commentary of the text followed then by the message and application of the Psalm. This structure is helpful and is welcomed.

Overall I believe this to be a welcomed addition to the commentaries that already exist on the Psalter. Unfortunately it is only volume 1. We will have to wait for the other volumes.

FTC Rhetoric: I do not receive payment for my book reviews. I do sometimes receive free review and giveaway copies from authors, publishers, and publicists. My first responsibility is to my readers, therefore, I am committed to honest reviews.

[Ron Starcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Allen P. Ross’ A Commentary on the Psalms, Volume 1 (1-41) is a great addition to any pastor, teacher, or student’s library of commentaries on the Psalter. Dr. Ross’s work on the book of Psalms in The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, Vol 5 serves as an appetizer for this current work.

Dr. Ross shows an easy familiarity with the text of the Psalms. He is obviously at home with the biblical text; each Psalm is presented in the author’s own translation from Hebrew.
He comments freely on relevant literature about the text.

The structure of the commentary is: the author’s translation along with brief footnote discussions of textual variants; contextual overview; an exegetical analysis; exposition; and message and application. The exegetical analysis is presented in outline form, although it does not appear that the intent was to produce an outline. While some commentaries strive to condense the text into a simple outline, Ross allows the text to construct its own outline.

Particularly interesting is the section dealing with textual variants. Ross brings to bear variant readings from the Vulgate, LXX, and other Hebrew text traditions.

A Commentary on the Psalms, Vol 1 is not stuffy reading. Ross walks his reader through the garden of the collection of Hebrew worship material and points him to the God who is worshipped through His Son. If volume 1 covers Psalms 1-41, then four or five volumes may be required to complete the Psalter. Regardless, I intend to own each volume and recommend that everyone who loves the Psalms do likewise.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kregel Publications as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Ryan Linkous · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great commentary by Dr. Ross. He writes very clearly and brings a voluminous about amount of knowledge to the table when discussing the Psalms. Volume 1 has his prolegomena which is very helpful, accessible, and practical. The commentary is good for bringing linguistic, literary, and historical knowledge to one's devotion to God. The one area where Ross's commentary is lacking is in Christological and Trinitarian hermeneutics. He has very restricted categories on when a Psalm can be considered Christological or when the New Testament should affect our view of the Old.

Another area where's Ross's commentaries are great are his word studies. Volume 3 has an appendix which shows where to find each one.

[Nate Claiborne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, this is an excellent start to a commentary series on the Psalms, I will look forward to next two volumes, whenever they might be published. As my wife and I continue to read through the Psalms each month, I will keep coming back to Ross' work here to explore and deepen my understanding of the text. His work is clear and extremely well organized, providing enough scholarly and pastoral insight to suit both the average reader and the pastor preparing for a sermon.

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[M.J. Hancock · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those commentaries that you just want to keep reading. Found it insightful, readable, and spiritually nourishing!