Commentary on the Psalms

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. In addition, 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.”