Description
Book SynopsisShowing how the Psalms give profound and candid expression to both our highest aspirations and our deepest pain, the late, highly respected Cistercian Abbot M. Basil Pennington shares his reflections on some of the most beloved passages from the Bible's most widely read book. In this companion volume to The Song of Songs: A Spiritual Commentary, Pennington is once again joined by Jewish artist Phillip Ratner, whose evocative works will lead you into more meaningful contemplation of the inner spirit of the Psalms. Pennington describes how the monastic tradition of regular reflection on the Psalms - a technique St. Benedict called the "work of God," or Opus Dei - can help you transform your everyday life into a powerful life of prayer. Enriched by Jewish and Christian faith, the drawings and meditations speak to every person wanting both to connect with their most human longings and to forge a vital connection with the Divine.
Trade Review"An eloquent and moving commentary ... infusing the text with [Pennington's] love for the scriptures and his sense of unity with God.... Unique.... [Pennington’s] eloquence and wonder are fully intact, his feelings of awe emerging on every page.... This is not merely a commentary on the Psalms, but a love letter from a man who immersed himself in their grandeur and majesty." —Publishers Weekly starred review “Inspiring and visually beautiful.... Only a spiritual master like Basil Pennington could express so simply and so powerfully their meaning for believers today.” —Catholic Library World “Has the richness, density, and complexity that will nurture a lifetime of prayer.... A meeting place between God and the heart and soul.” —Cistercian Studies “Attractive ... easy to read.... Original and creative.... Would find a comfortable home in any congregational library.” —Church & Synagogue Library Association Newsletter “Sweet [and] personal.... [Pennington’s] approach, examples, language, and imagery are all easy and accessible.” —Library Journal “Not only a fine companion to prayer, but its artistic format would make it a fine gift.” —Bible Today “Both inspiring and visually beautiful.” —Catholic Library World
Table of ContentsWelcome Blessed Are They: Psalm 1 O Lord, Our Lord: Psalm 8a You Gave Us Dominion: Psalm 8b The Heavens Declare the Glory of God: Psalm 19 May the Lord Hear You: Psalm 20 The Earth Is the Lord's: Psalm 24 Judge Me, O Lord: Psalm 26 The Lord Is My Light: Psalm 27 I Will Extol You, O Lord: Psalm 30 I Will Bless the Lord: Psalm 34 As the Hart Longs: Psalm 42 God Is Our Refuge and Strength: Psalm 46 Give Ear to My Prayer: Psalm 55a It Was Not an Enemy: Psalm 55b Cry Out to God: Psalm 66 In You, O Lord, I Place My Trust: Psalm 71 Hear My Teaching: Psalm 78 You Who Dwell: Psalm 91 The Lord Reigns: Psalm 97 Sing to the Lord: Psalm 98 Hear My Prayer: Psalm 102 Give Thanks to the Lord: Psalm 136 Beside the Rivers of Babylon: Psalm 137 Alleluia: Psalm 150 Suggested Reading
