Podcasts

A verse expressing longing for Jerusalem and a psalm describing the return to Zion together capture the emotional and spiritual range of the Psalter.

The final psalm speaks more of instruments than of verbal song. There is a striking symbolism to be found therein.

Why do the songs of the Psalms draw to a close by speaking of a "new song?"

The Declaration of Independence and Hebraic America.

One of the most celebrated military figures in recent history is Napoleon Bonaparte, yet he has something of a mixed legacy.

Psalm 148 describes all existence praising God—and the manner in which it does so is very interesting.

An exquisite verse about the stars reveals the story of Abraham.

Many themes come together in one psalm as we come close to concluding this biblical book.

Psalm 145 is very well known to traditional Jews. Why?

David gives gratitude to God for his victory in battle and for the prosperity of his kingdom.

Great books make good citizens.

A word central to biblical ethics is at the heart of this psalm.

The French Revolution was a series of cascading events that would upend the world of modern politics.

Psalm 142 inspires us to contrast two very different texts about caves.

A comparison between prayer and a rite in the Temple illuminates both.

A verb in Psalm 140 has a parallel and a very different context in the sh’ma.

In Psalm 139, David ponders the omniscience and omnipresence of the Almighty.

David speaks of praising God with a "whole heart." What does that mean?

Inside the logistical complexities of the American arsenal.

Psalm 136 may play a special role in the Passover Seder.