How Many Psalms Are in the Old Testament?

The Book of Psalms​ is one of the most beloved and frequently read books in the Bible. It contains poetry, prayers, and praises that have resonated with generations of believers. Found in the Old Testament, the Psalms are often quoted in worship services, personal devotions, and theological discussions. But how many Psalms are there in the Old Testament? And why are they significant? This article explores that question and provides a rich background to help readers understand the context, composition, and count of these sacred writings.

Understanding the Psalms

A Book of Songs and Prayers

The word "Psalms" comes from the Greek word psalmoi, which means "songs sung to a harp." In Hebrew, the book is called Tehillim, meaning "praises." Though the Hebrew title emphasizes praise, the Psalms include a wide range of emotions and topics. They include sorrow, joy, fear, hope, anger, and trust. The Psalms offer words for almost every human experience, expressing deep emotion and heartfelt devotion to God.

Part of the Hebrew Bible

The Book of Psalms is part of the Ketuvim, or "Writings," which is the third major section of the Hebrew Bible, known as the Tanakh. In the Christian Old Testament, the Psalms are placed within the Wisdom Books, often grouped with Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon. Their poetic structure and devotional nature make them distinct from historical and prophetic books.

The Number of Psalms in the Old Testament

A Total of 150 Psalms

There are 150 Psalms in the Old Testament. This count is consistent in most modern Protestant and Catholic Bibles. The Psalms are numbered sequentially from Psalm 1 to Psalm 150. Each Psalm stands as a separate composition, though some are thematically or liturgically linked.

Each Psalm is a complete unit. Some are as short as two verses (like Psalm 117), while others, such as Psalm 119, are very long. Psalm 119, with 176 verses, is the longest chapter in the Bible. These Psalms vary in structure and length but are unified by their spiritual depth and poetic style.

Variations in Numbering

While the total number remains 150 in most traditions, the numbering of the Psalms can differ slightly between the Hebrew (Masoretic Text), the Greek Septuagint, and the Latin Vulgate. In the Septuagint and Vulgate versions, some Psalms are combined or divided differently. For example, Psalms 9 and 10 in the Hebrew Bible are combined in the Septuagint, while Psalm 147 is divided into two in some Greek manuscripts.

Despite these differences in numbering, the total number in all major traditions eventually adds up to 150. Scholars and translators have worked to reconcile these differences so that readers can navigate the Psalms across different versions of the Bible.

The Structure of the Psalms

Five Books Within One

The Book of Psalms is not just one collection but is actually divided into five separate books, each ending with a doxology—a short hymn of praise to God. These five books are:

Book I: Psalms 1–41
Book II: Psalms 42–72
Book III: Psalms 73–89
Book IV: Psalms 90–106
Book V: Psalms 107–150

This fivefold division mirrors the five books of the Torah (Genesis through Deuteronomy), suggesting a deliberate attempt to align the Psalms with the foundational books of Jewish Scripture. Each section concludes with a phrase such as “Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting! Amen and Amen.”

Purpose of the Structure

The division emphasizes themes of God’s kingship, covenant faithfulness, and the spiritual journey of Israel. Book I is deeply personal and focused on the life of David. Book II begins to expand into the life of the nation. Books III and IV reflect times of crisis and exile. Book V returns to praise and restoration, leading to the final Psalm of universal praise in Psalm 150.

Who Wrote the Psalms?

Many Authors, One Spirit

The Psalms were written by multiple authors over several centuries. King David is the most prominent contributor, traditionally credited with writing 73 of the Psalms. His life experiences—ranging from being a shepherd, warrior, fugitive, and king—brought forth heartfelt songs of lament, thanksgiving, and adoration.

Other identified authors include:

• Asaph: A worship leader and musician during David’s reign.

• The Sons of Korah: Temple singers who contributed several psalms.

• Solomon: David’s son and king of Israel, credited with Psalm 72 and Psalm 127.

• Moses: Traditionally linked to Psalm 90, the oldest psalm in the collection.

• Heman and Ethan: Wise men mentioned in the books of Kings and Chronicles.

Many Psalms are anonymous. The editors of the final collection preserved these works with reverence, valuing their spiritual insight even if the author's identity was lost.

Themes and Types of Psalms

Diverse Genres

The Psalms are not uniform in content. They include various types of poems and prayers:

• Laments: Expressions of sorrow or complaint, such as Psalm 13.

• Thanksgiving: Gratitude for God’s help, such as Psalm 30.

• Praise: Celebrations of God’s greatness, such as Psalm 145.

• Royal Psalms: Focused on the king of Israel, especially Davidic kings.

• Wisdom Psalms: Reflections on life, such as Psalm 1 and Psalm 37.

• Imprecatory Psalms: Prayers calling for God’s judgment on enemies.

This variety makes the Psalms a rich spiritual resource. They speak to the heart, guide the soul, and shape both personal and communal worship.

Use of Psalms in Worship

Ancient and Modern Usage

From ancient temple worship in Jerusalem to contemporary Christian services, the Psalms have always played a central role. They are read aloud, chanted, or sung. Early Jewish synagogues incorporated them into liturgical readings. The New Testament frequently quotes the Psalms, and Jesus Himself recited them, even from the cross.

In Christian tradition, the Psalms form a core part of the Liturgy of the Hours, especially in monastic life. Many churches follow a lectionary that includes a Psalm reading in every service. Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd,” is among the most quoted and cherished passages in Scripture.

Conclusion

So, how many Psalms are in the Old Testament? The answer is clear: there are 150 Psalms. These ancient poems continue to inspire, comfort, and challenge readers. They offer words when our own fail. They remind us of God’s enduring faithfulness. They teach us how to pray, how to praise, and how to hope.

The Psalms stand at the heart of the Bible’s spiritual depth. Their count may be finite—just 150—but their impact is infinite. Whether you read them in a moment of crisis or in a time of peace, they always point the way back to God.