Wisdom Psalms Some psalms are called wisdom psalms because they make a case for the primary importance of wisdom or instruct readers in dealing with questions, issues, and doubts that arise in life (see Pss 1; 14; 25; 34; 37; 39; 49; 73; 78; 90; 91; 111; 112; 127; 128; 131; 133; 139). Many other psalms contain elements of wisdom teaching (see Pss 18; 27; 31; 32; 40; 62; 92; 94; 107; 144; 146). In the other nations of the ancient Near East, wisdom had to do with maintaining order, pleasing the gods and other people, and carefully observing life, society, and nature. In Israel, wisdom shares these concerns but is distinct in the centrality it gives to fear of the Lord. God alone is the center and focus of life, and proper fear of him opens the path of wisdom (111:10). Fear of the Lord is a disposition of absolute submission to and trust in the Lord (115:11; see also 40:3; 112:7), which leads to purity of life (19:9). Psalm 34 connects the fear of the Lord with abundant life. The way of wisdom is the way of godliness. Psalm 1 invites all readers of the psalms to delight in God, his revelation, and the lifestyle that results from his care for the wise. The lives of the godly d...