Abstract
The therapeutic role of the symbolic language in the Psalms is discussed. First, the symbolic language of the psalm allows for the expression of difficulties and emotions not expressible through normal prosaic language. Second, the depth of expression may allow the troubled person to identify with another human being in comparable difficulty and thus find hope through the other's experience. Third, the symbolic language of the psalm may restructure the symbols by which a person lives his life and thus lead to a new manner of living. With the analysis of the language completed, the technique is applied to three psalms by tracing their potential impact on the reader's mind. Finally, suggestions are made for use of the Psalms in individual or group therapy.
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