from ψάλλω; a set piece of music, i.e. a sacred ode (accompanied with the voice, harp or other instrument; a "psalm"); collectively, the book of the Psalms:--psalm. Compare ᾠδή.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **psalmós**, represented by `{{G5568}}`, refers to a set piece of music or a sacred ode, often accompanied by an instrument like a harp. It appears 7 times across 7 unique verses. The term can denote an individual **psalm** or collectively refer to the book of the Psalms.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5568}}` is used in two primary contexts. It frequently refers to the Old Testament "book of **Psalms**" as a collection of prophetic writings, as when Jesus states that all things written about him "in the **psalms**" must be fulfilled [[Luke 24:44]]. Specific verses are cited from "the book of **Psalms**" ([[Luke 20:42]], [[Acts 1:20]]) or from a particular **psalm**, such as "the second **psalm**" [[Acts 13:33]]. Secondly, a **psalm** is identified as a component of Christian worship, where believers are instructed to speak to one another in **psalms**, hymns, and spiritual songs ([[Ephesians 5:19]], [[Colossians 3:16]]). In this context, having a **psalm** is presented as a contribution to the edifying of the church gathering [[1 Corinthians 14:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature of musical worship:
* `{{G5567}}` **psállō** (to twitch or twang...): As the root verb for psalmós, this term means to play on a stringed instrument or make melody. It is used in the command to be "making melody" in your heart to the Lord [[Ephesians 5:19]].
* `{{G5215}}` **hýmnos** (a "hymn" or religious ode): This word is used in direct parallel with psalmós to describe a category of musical worship [[Ephesians 5:19]].
* `{{G5603}}` **ōidḗ** (a chant or "ode"): Defined as the general term for any words sung, it appears alongside psalms and hymns as a form of spiritual expression for believers [[Colossians 3:16]].
* `{{G103}}` **áidō** (to sing): This verb describes the action performed with psalms, hymns, and songs, emphasizing the vocal aspect of worship [[Colossians 3:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5568}}` is significant.
* **Prophetic Authority:** The term is used to designate the book of Psalms as a source of divine prophecy. Jesus himself affirms that its contents concerning him "must be fulfilled" [[Luke 24:44]], and the apostles quote from it to explain the Sonship of Jesus [[Acts 13:33]] and the fate of Judas [[Acts 1:20]].
* **Mutual Edification:** Psalms are presented as a vital tool for the spiritual life of the church. They are a means by which believers teach and admonish one another, with the stated goal that "all things be done unto edifying" ([[1 Corinthians 14:26]], [[Colossians 3:16]]).
* **Internal Worship:** The use of psalms is explicitly connected to the inner state of the believer. This form of worship is to be done "with grace in your hearts" [[Colossians 3:16]] and involves "making melody in your heart to the Lord" [[Ephesians 5:19]], indicating it is more than an external ritual.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5568}}` **psalmós** carries a dual significance. It refers to the divinely inspired collection of the Psalms, a book rich with prophecy concerning Christ, and also to individual sacred odes used in Christian worship. As a tool for teaching and admonishing, the psalm serves to edify the church community, expressing a heart-level worship that is directed to the Lord.
TRV