The Hebrew Bible, better known as the Old Testament, is a collection of tomes that are part of the biblical canon. Many scholars around the world do not think that a single author wrote the books contained in the Hebrew Bible, but rather that they represent centuries of stories often compiled after the events they describe. The stories were created with visions for the future, in order to allow the audience to understand the communities and beliefs that were commonly thought during their era. The stories responded to the issues and problems of their time, but also addressed contemporary climates. While the stories themselves may not be true, they convey the truth without the need for literal readings. For example, the creation stories in Genesis describe God as creating the universe, and although this is considered not "literally true"; the stories communicate theological truths about humanity's relationship with God through the eyes of Jewish writers. The Book of Psalms is divided into five books depending on the material they contain. There are 150 psalms in the entire book and together they form the “hymn of Israel”. The word “psalm” means “praise,” a common theme throughout the book. Most conservative Jewish and Christian theologians believe that 73 psalms were written by David, 12 by Asaph (a musician in David's court), 10 by the "Sons of Korah"; 2 of Solomon; 1 each from Ethan, Heman and Moses. Most were written in the hundred years after 1030 BC. In contrast, most religious liberals believe that the form and use of the psalms in worship services originated from the pagan nations surrounding Israel. Psalm 89 of the Book of Psalms, supports the message of consequentialism, highlighted by man's relationship with God, with a direct connection... ... middle of paper ......Davies, Eds.) Journal for the Study of Old Testament Supplement Series.Deffinbaugh, B. (n.d.). Wisdom Literature: The Psalms Part 1. Retrieved May 9, 2011, from Bible.org: http://bible.org/seriespage/wisdom-literature-psalms-part-iMain Events in the History of Jerusalem. (n.d.). Retrieved May 8, 2011, from Century One Educational Bookstore: http://www.centuryone.com/hstjrslm.htmlRobinson, B. A. (2008, March 30). Books of the Hebrew Scripture. Retrieved May 7, 2011, from Religious Tolerance: http://www.religioustolerance.org/chr_otb3.htmSailhamer, J. H. (1999). NIV Compact Bible Commentary. Zondervan.Smith, D. (n.d.). Why did God punish King David for taking a census? Retrieved May 17, 2011, from BibleSudy.org: http://www.biblestudy.org/question/why-did-god-punish-king-david-for-taking-a-census.htmlVardy, P. (n.d.) . The Book of Jonah.