One category of Psalms from the book of Psalms that is quite interesting is a Maskil. It’s interesting because we have no idea what the term “maskil” means. It has been proposed by some scholars that it’s a literary or musical term. It likely relates to the purpose of specific Psalms or how they were performed or recited. The word only appears in the book of Psalms and one other book of the Old Testament.
There are twelve Psalms categorized as a Maskil. The writers of these Psalms are David, Asaph, sons of Korah, Heman, and Ethan. These Psalms include Psalm 32, 42, 44, 45, 52, 53, 54, 55, 74, 78, 88, 89, and 142. These can also double as a prayer. This is why certain Bible translators have rendered the word in English, referring to it as “a contemplation” (NKJV).
The Hebrew word “maskil” is also found in Amos 5:13. It is translated “prudent” (ESV) or having “insight” (CSB). Some commentators have speculated that a maskil is meant to be meditative and to impart wisdom. It has even been suggested that these Psalms were sung as a form of teaching in the tabernacle and later the temple. They serve well as teachings when prayerfully considered, which lead to godly understanding and action.
Asaph’s Psalm 78 is an example of a Maskil. This Psalm teaches Israel’s history. In recounting events from their past, this Psalm shows how God preserved His people, even when they disbelieved. The Psalm has selected events from the Pentateuch (first five books of the Bible), Joshua, Judges, and Samuel.
The Psalm is clear about its purpose, “Give ear, O my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth! I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old, things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, but tell them to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the LORD, and his might, and the wonders that He has done” (Psalm 78:1-4). This Psalm’s purpose is to recount these events in song so that future generations of God’s people will learn from the past so that they will not follow the paths of the unbelieving and rebellious people described. Throughout the Psalm, words like “remember” and “forget” are found. The psalmist desires that those who sing this song will never forget.
The final section declares God’s enduring commitment through His gift to them of King David. Believers will see this as important since David’s heir, Jesus, now occupies the eternal throne. Foreshadowing of God’s preserving work through Christ can be seen throughout this Psalm.
Even today, this Psalm reminds believers of God’s patient preservation of His people. As God was faithful to Israel, so too He is faithful to His church today. Followers of Christ today are beneficiaries of God’s patience. Today we can be confident that God will continue His purposes for His people from today and throughout eternity.
Even though we are uncertain of the meaning of “maskil,” there is no doubt this category of Psalm has been a major source of instruction and encouragement to God’s people. It’s one of the eight categories of Psalms representing different styles for different purposes. There is little doubt that Maskils, as well as the other categories of Psalms found in the largest book in the Bible, express how God values songs and the truths they impart. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!