Psalm 22 Introduction

Structure and Formatting

Psalm 22 contains several different but related themes of lament, prayer, trust, and hope for the future. Verses 1–21 are a lament. See the Introduction to Psalms for more information about psalms of lament. Verses 22–31 praise Yahweh for his deliverance and kingship over the nations, and the worship he will receive in the future. Many Bible scholars consider Psalm 22 to be one of the “messianic psalms” because different New Testament authors quote parts of this psalm in relation to Jesus and because Jesus quotes the first line of verse 1 while on the cross. See the Introduction to Psalms for more information about the messianic psalms. (See: christ and crucify and lament) 1. An anguished call to God (1–2) 2. An affirmation of God’s holiness and past deliverance of the Israelites (3–5) 3. David describes his situation (6–18) 4. A prayer for help (19–21) 5. Yahweh’s deliverance of David results in Yahweh being praised (22–26) 6. People from all parts of the world, all people groups, and rich and poor people will turn to Yahweh and worship him as king (27–29) 7. Future generations will praise Yahweh and will be told about his saving acts (30–31)

Note 1 topic: translate-unknown

לַ֭⁠מְנַצֵּחַ

(la⁠mənaʦʦēaḩ)

The word translated as chief musician likely refers to the person in charge of music for worship. Some languages may have a term for a music leader. Alternate translation: [For the music director] or [For the leader of worship music]