This book offers a unique focus on the psalms for the English-reading world. Konrad Shaefer presents a mental snapshot of each psalm, then zeroes in on the contours of the poetry, the phrases and images that risk being lost on the reader who approaches the psalms in translation. The commentary identifies the dynamics of the poetic discourse to enhance the reader's appreciation of the rhetoric and imagery, which are major keys to unlocking the meaning of the psalms. With these literary observations the reader can enter each psalm and reflect on the environment and aspects of personal life and faith that the poet projects. By isolating the inner dynamics of the poem, Schaefer provides insight and invites the reader to enjoy the poem and the prayer. "Incline your ear, and come to me; listen, so that you may live. I will make with you an everlasting covenant." -Isaiah 55:3 As they have for centuries, people still turn to the Hebrew Bible to hear afresh the life-giving words of God's everlasting covenant. Berit Olam ("The Everlasting Covenant"): Studies in Hebrew Narrative and Poetry brings to all interested in the Bible, be they lay people, professional biblical scholars, students, or religious educators, the latest developments in the literary analysis of these ancient texts. This multi-volume commentary reflects a relatively new development in biblical studies. The readings of the books of the Hebrew Bible offered here all focus on the final form of the texts, approaching them as literary works, recognizing that the craft of poetry and storytelling that the ancient Hebrew world provided can be found in them and that their truth can be better appreciated with a fuller understanding of that art. The authors reflect a variety of religious traditions, professional backgrounds, and theoretical approaches. Yet they share a common desire to make available to all of God's people the words of the everlasting covenant in all of their beauty. 448 pages.