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Scripture Guide

Psalm 8 (Guide B)

AIM Commentary

Ancient Lens

What’s the historical context?

Background Structure

This Psalm of David is unique. “It is the only hymn in the Old Testament composed completely as a direct address to God.” [1] It expresses an intimate relationship between the Psalmist and God, one in which the author stands in wonder of the majesty of his Creator. He pinches himself to think that the Maker of the universe would desire a relationship with such a fragile and finite human being. 

In verses 1 and 10, the Psalmist employs what biblical scholars call an “inclusio,” a fancy word for a refrain, “Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!” These bookends of declarative praise are the teaser and tagline for the…

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