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The Old Testament Book of Psalms has been a great source of inspiration in both Christian and non Christian spiritualities. It is copiously cited in various parts of the New Testament. The author presents in this volume a basic introduction to the Psalms. This work, which is meant to be a guide to the understanding of the message of the Psalms, begins with the etymology of the word ´Psalm´, and related words, in Greek, Latin and English. It also includes a brief survey of how this Old Testament Book is called in its original Hebrew language. The aim of these preliminary considerations is to prepare prospective readers for a better understanding and appreciation of the Psalms. Other aspects of the study of the Old Testament Psalms that feature in this book include: literary genres, poetic techniques employed in the Psalms, some major theological themes, the use of the Psalms in the New Testament and in Christian Liturgy. This introduction to the Psalms is designed for all Christians, particularly students of theology, catechists and pastors who might need a handy book in their pastoral activities.

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Mary Jerome Obiorah, IHM, is a member of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ. She has her doctoral degree from the Pontifical Biblical Institute, Rome, Italy, where she specialized in the study of Sacred Scripture. Currently, she is a senior lecturer at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.

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