In this episode, we examine chapter 135 of Tehillim, which appears in Pesukei D'Zimra for Shabbat and Yom Tov. We survey the Mizmor structurally, discuss its possible meaning as "Hallel Ha-Gadol" in light of two passages in the Gemara, and explain the deeper meaning behind the many verses in our chapter which are "borrowed" from elsewhere in Tanakh.

 In this episode, we examine chapter 91 of Tehillim, which appears in Pesukei D'Zimra for Shabbat and Yom Tov. We examine how the Mizmor was understood by two Talmudic passages, then suggest a different reading which sees the Psalm as portraying a dramatic dialogue between teacher and student about fostering faith in G-d.

 In this episode, we examine chapter 90 of Tehillim, which appears in Pesukei D'Zimra for Shabbat and Yom Tov. We discuss the atribution of this chapter to Moshe Rabbeinu, noting that it seems to be a reflection from the conclusion of his life. We also consider how the author of the Mizmor grapples with the transience and impermanence of human life relative to Hashem's eternity, and the role that service of Hashem plays in giving life meaning.

In this episode, we examine chapter 34 of Tehillim, which appears in Pesukei D'Zimra for Shabbat and Yom Tov. We consider the relationship between this chapter and the story of David's (feigned?) insanity in Sefer Shmuel, as well as the significance of the instructions David leaves for a life of proper Avodat Hashem, and conclude with a discussion of the optimism and vision of Sefer Tehillim.

 In this episode, we examine chapter 19 of Tehillim, which appears in Pesukei D'Zimra for Shabbat. We examine the three major units of the chapter and explore the connection between Hashem's celestial grandeur, manifest in the sun, and the grandeur of Torah. We conclude with one main philosophical "lesson" of the Mizmor.

 In this episode, we examine chapter 137 of Tehillim, Al Naharot Bavel, which is printed before Birkat HaMazon in many bentchers. We discuss the setting of the mizmor, read through it carefully for its literary effect, discuss the overarching structure of the chapter, and address the morally challenging issue of the final verse, which calls for vengeance against the children of our enemies.

In this episode, we examine chapter 126 of Tehillim, the Shir HaMa'alot recited before Birkat HaMazon on festive occasions. We note an apparent tension that lies at the heart of the chapter, and offer two interpretations of the chapter that shed light on redemption, both at the time of Shivat Tziyon and in our own day.

 In this episode, we examine chapter 92 of Tehillim, the Shir Shel Yom for Shabbat. We note the structure of the poem, which centers on verse 9's declaration of Hashem's lofty and eternal status; unpack the agricultural imagery of the chapter; and suggest a relationship between the two central themes of the Mizmor: Hashem's workings within nature and the apparent failure of Divine justice. We conclude with a few perspectives on the relationship between this psalm and the idea of Shabbat, including a creative perspective of R' Yaakov Kamenetsky which connects our chapter to the period of our slavery in Egypt.

In this episode, we examine chapter 93 of Tehillim, the Shir Shel Yom for Friday. After noting some poetic and literary features of the chapter, we explore two modes of reading suggested by the Meiri: one which emphasizes themes of creation and another which highlights the Messianic motif of the Mizmor. We conclude by suggesting a synthetic reading which combines these two elements and presents a unity between Hashem's kingship, Hashem's dominion, Hashem's creation, and Hashem's law.

In this episode, we examine chapter 81 of Tehillim, the Shir Shel Yom for Thursday. We note the Mizmor's unique emphasis on Yetziat Mitzrayim, its references to Jewish history, and the connotations of the Shofar in our chapter. We also discuss this Mizmor as a "Mussar" Mizmor, in which Hashem, so to speak, talks to us instead of the other way around.