Fr. John-Pierre Prevost gives an etymology of and a definition of key words that form the characteristic vocabulary of the psalms, thus providing a tool to understanding and appreciating the Psalter. He suggests also how the psalms fit into one's prayers.

This book contains the classic Coverdale version of the Psalms, alongside the classic Latin version.

Taking his point of departure from the newest frontier of research, McCann reads the psalms in the context of their final shape and canonical form. He interprets the psalms as scripture as well as in their character as songs, prayers, and poetry from Israel's history. McCann's intent is to contribute to the church's recovery of the psalms as torah--as instruction, as a guide to prayer, praise of God, and pious living. The explicit connections which McCann draws from the psalms to the New Testament and to Christian faith and life are extensive, making his work suitable for serious study of the psalms in academic and in church settings. An appendix examines the tradition of singing the psalms and offers suggestions for the use of the psalms in worship.