The Psalms

Oh! the wise invention of the teacher who contrived that while we were singing we should at the same time learn something useful; by this means, too, the teachings are in a certain way impressed more deeply on our minds. Even a forceful lesson does not always endure, but what enters the mind with joy and pleasure somehow becomes more firmly impressed upon it. What, in fact, can you not learn from the pslams? Can you not learn the grandeur of courage? the exactness of justice? The nobility of self-control? the perfection of prudence? A manner of penance? The measure of patience? And whatever other good things you might mention? Therin is perfect theology, a prediction of the coming of Christ in the flesh, a threat of judgment, a hope of resurrection, a fear of punishment, promises of glory, and unveiling of mysteries; all thins, as if in some great public treasury, are stored up in the Book of Pslams.

-St. Basil, Exegetic Homilies