The Subjects of the Psalms. It is very difficult to make any sort of
classification of the Psalms and any classification is open to
criticism. For this reason many groupings have been suggested. The
following, taken from different sources, may be of help. (1) Hymns of
praise, 8, 18, 19, 104, 145, 147, etc. (2) National hymns, 105, 106,
114, etc. (3) Temple hymns or hymns for public worship, 15, 24, 87,
etc. (4) Hymns relating to trial and calamity, 9, 22, 55, 56, 109,
etc. (5) Messianic Psalms, 2,16, 40, 72, 110, etc. (6) Hymns of
general religious character, 89, 90, 91, 121, 127, etc.

The following classification has been given in the hope of suggesting
the most prominent religious characteristics of the Psalms. (1) Those
that recognize the one infinite, all-wise and omnipotent God. (2)
Those that recognize the universality of his love and providence and
goodness. (3) Those showing abhorrence of all idols and the rejection
of all subordinate deities. (4) Those giving prophetic glimpses of the
Divine Son and of his redeeming work on earth. (5) Those showing the
terrible nature of sin, the divine hatred of it and judgment of God
upon sinners. (6) Those teaching the doctrines of forgiveness, divine
mercy, and the duty of repentance. (7) Those emphasizing the beauty of
holiness, the importance of faith and the soul's privilege of
communion with God.

Analysis.

1. Davidic Psalms. 1-41. These are not only ascribed to him but
reflect much of his life and faith.

2. Historical Psalms. 42-72.