Psalms vs. Psalm: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Aimie Carlson || Updated on May 20, 2024
Psalms refer to the entire collection of 150 sacred songs or hymns found in the Bible, while a psalm refers to an individual song or hymn within that collection.
Key Differences
Psalms is the plural form and refers to the entire Book of Psalms, a collection of 150 sacred hymns and prayers found in the Bible, often attributed to King David. This book is used in both Jewish and Christian traditions for worship, prayer, and meditation. A psalm, on the other hand, is a single hymn or prayer from this collection. For example, Psalm 23 ("The Lord is my shepherd...") is one specific psalm within the Book of Psalms.
Psalms, as a whole, covers a wide range of themes, including praise, thanksgiving, lamentation, and supplication. The Book of Psalms is divided into five sections, each serving different liturgical and theological purposes. A psalm, individually, focuses on a specific theme or subject, providing a detailed expression of emotion or worship.
The term psalms is used when referring to the collective body of these songs, such as when discussing their role in religious services or their impact on theology and literature. When discussing a specific chapter or hymn within the book, the term psalm is used. For example, "Psalms are often read during worship services" versus "Psalm 23 is a popular scripture for comfort."
Comparison Chart
Form
Plural
Singular
Reference
Entire collection of 150 hymns
Individual hymn within the collection
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Usage
Refers to the whole Book of Psalms
Refers to a specific chapter or hymn
Examples
Psalms 23, 51, and 91 are often quoted
Psalm 23: "The Lord is my shepherd..."
Themes
Covers a wide range of themes and emotions
Focuses on a specific theme or emotion
Psalms and Psalm Definitions
Psalms
A set of sacred songs used in religious worship.
Psalms are sung during church services.
Psalm
A single hymn or prayer from the Book of Psalms.
Psalm 23 is one of the most well-known psalms.
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Psalms
The entire collection of 150 hymns in the Bible.
The Book of Psalms is a vital part of both Jewish and Christian liturgies.
Psalm
An individual chapter within the Psalms.
He recited Psalm 91 for protection.
Psalms
A diverse compilation of prayers, praises, and laments.
The Psalms include expressions of joy and sorrow.
Psalm
A song or poem used in worship.
The choir sang a beautiful psalm during the service.
Psalms
The biblical book containing these hymns.
She studies the Psalms every morning as part of her devotion.
Psalm
A prayer or hymn focusing on a particular theme.
Psalm 150 is a song of praise and worship.
Psalms
Often attributed to multiple authors, including King David.
Many Psalms are believed to have been written by King David.
Psalm
A sacred song; a hymn.
Psalms
A sacred song; a hymn.
Psalm
Psalms (used with a sing. verb) See Table at Bible.
Psalms
Psalms (used with a sing. verb) See Table at Bible.
Psalm
To sing of or celebrate in psalms.
Psalms
To sing of or celebrate in psalms.
Psalm
A sacred song; a poetical composition for use in the praise or worship of God.
Psalms
Plural of psalm
Psalm
One of the hymns by David and others, collected into one book of the Old Testament, or a modern metrical version of such a hymn for public worship.
Psalms
An Old Testament book consisting of a collection of 150 Psalms
Psalm
To extol in psalms; to make music; to sing
To psalm his praises.
Psalm
A sacred song; a poetical composition for use in the praise or worship of God.
Humus devout and holy psalmsSinging everlastingly.
Psalm
Especially, one of the hymns by David and others, collected into one book of the Old Testament, or a modern metrical version of such a hymn for public worship.
Psalm
To extol in psalms; to sing; as, psalming his praises.
Psalm
One of the 150 lyrical poems and prayers that comprise the Book of Psalms in the Old Testament; said to have been written by David
Psalm
Any sacred song used to praise the Deity
Psalm
Sing or celebrate in psalms;
He psalms the works of God
Psalm
A specific text within the biblical collection.
Psalm 51 is a plea for forgiveness and mercy.
FAQs
Can psalms be used in both Jewish and Christian worship?
Yes, psalms are used in both Jewish and Christian worship practices.
How many psalms are in the Book of Psalms?
There are 150 psalms in the Book of Psalms.
Who is traditionally credited with writing many of the psalms?
King David is traditionally credited with writing many of the psalms.
How are psalms typically used in religious services?
Psalms are often read, sung, or chanted during religious services as part of liturgy or personal devotion.
What is the difference between Psalms and a psalm?
Psalms refer to the entire collection of 150 hymns in the Bible, while a psalm refers to an individual hymn from this collection.
What are the themes covered in the Psalms?
The Psalms cover themes such as praise, thanksgiving, lamentation, and supplication.
Can psalms be used for personal meditation?
Yes, psalms are often used for personal meditation and reflection.
Are all psalms meant to be sung?
While many psalms are intended to be sung, others are recited or used as prayers.
What is the structure of the Book of Psalms?
The Book of Psalms is divided into five sections, mirroring the five books of the Torah.
What is a well-known example of a psalm?
Psalm 23, which begins with "The Lord is my shepherd," is a well-known example.
What is the purpose of the Psalms in the Bible?
The Psalms serve as prayers, hymns, and expressions of worship, reflecting a range of human emotions and spiritual experiences.
What is an example of a psalm of lament?
Psalm 22, which begins with "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" is an example of a psalm of lament.
Is there a difference in the numbering of psalms between different Bible translations?
Yes, there can be differences in the numbering of psalms between Hebrew, Greek, and Latin versions of the Bible.
Are psalms considered poetry?
Yes, psalms are considered a form of Hebrew poetry.
What language were the original psalms written in?
The original psalms were written in Hebrew.
What is the shortest psalm?
Psalm 117 is the shortest psalm, consisting of only two verses.
What is the longest psalm?
Psalm 119 is the longest psalm, with 176 verses.
What is an example of a psalm of praise?
Psalm 150, which calls for praise with various musical instruments, is a psalm of praise.
Do psalms have specific titles or attributions?
Many psalms have titles or attributions indicating their authorship or the occasion for which they were written.
Can psalms be set to music?
Yes, many psalms have been set to music and are performed as hymns in religious services.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
