METRICAL PSALM Meaning and
Definition
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A metrical psalm refers to a type of religious hymn or sacred poetry that is written in a specific form of meter, often used in worship services and religious gatherings. This term is commonly associated with Christian tradition, particularly in the context of Protestant hymnody.
A metrical psalm typically takes inspiration from the biblical Psalms, which are poetic expressions of praise, prayer, and reflection found in the Old Testament. However, unlike the original Psalms, which were written in Hebrew and sung to specific melodies, metrical psalms are translated into a vernacular language and set to predetermined poetic meter. The meter provides a rhythmic structure, consisting of a pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables, which facilitates congregational singing.
The development of metrical psalms can be traced back to the 16th century Reformation, when there was a growing movement to make worship more accessible to everyday people. By translating the Psalms into the common language and composing them in a metrical form, it allowed congregations to actively participate in the worship experience. Metrical psalms became a significant part of Protestant hymnody, paving the way for congregational singing to become a central practice in Christian worship.
The content of a metrical psalm typically includes themes of devotion, praise, lamentation, and thanksgiving, reflecting the range of emotions expressed in the biblical Psalms. These hymns often serve as a means of communal expression and connection with the divine, fostering a sense of unity and shared faith among worshippers.
Common Misspellings for METRICAL PSALM
- netrical psalm
- ketrical psalm
- jetrical psalm
- mwtrical psalm
- mstrical psalm
- mdtrical psalm
- mrtrical psalm
- m4trical psalm
- m3trical psalm
- merrical psalm
- mefrical psalm
- megrical psalm
- meyrical psalm
- me6rical psalm
- me5rical psalm
- meteical psalm
- metdical psalm
- metfical psalm
- mettical psalm
- met5ical psalm
Etymology of METRICAL PSALM
The etymology of the term "metrical psalm" can be broken down as follows:
1. Metrical: The word "metrical" comes from the Latin word "metrum", which in turn stems from the Greek word "metron", meaning "measure". In English, "metrical" refers to something that follows a fixed rhythm or structure, particularly in poetry. When applied to psalms, it indicates that the psalm is written in a specific metrical form or verse structure.
2. Psalm: The word "psalm" originates from the Old English word "s(e)alm", which is derived from the Latin "psalmus" and the Greek "psalmos". Ultimately, it can be traced back to the Hebrew word "zimrah", meaning "song". In religious contexts, a psalm refers to a sacred song or hymn, particularly from the Book of Psalms in the Bible.
