This introduction to the interpretation of the Psalms encourages in-depth study of the text and genuine grappling with the historical, literary and theological questions that it poses. It draws on a range of methodological approaches as complementary rather than mutually exclusive ways of understanding the text. It also reflects the growing scholarly attention to the reception history of the Psalms, increasingly viewed as a vital aspect of interpretation rather than an optional extra. 'This introduction to the Psalms, by a scholar who has been studying them and praying them for decades, amply demonstrates their potential to feed our worship and revolutionize the way we pray.'John Goldingay, Professor Emeritus of Old Testament, Fuller Theological Seminar, California 'The best introduction to the Psalms that I have ever seen.'J. Clinton McCann Jr., Evangelical Professor of Biblical Interpretation, Eden Theological Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri 'A valuable resource for ministry students and any Christian who wants to go deeper with the Psalms.'Jenni Williams, Vicar of St Matthew with St Luke, and former Tutor in Old Testament at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford 'An eminently readable introduction.' Sue Gillingham, Professor of the Hebrew Bible, University of Oxford