When and why did the saying of Psalms originate?
According to the Talmud, ten authors composed the Psalms. The authors ranged over a period from Adam to Ezra, though the main author of the Psalms was King David, after whom the whole Book of Psalms is called. Tradition tells us that Adam composed the Hymn to the Sabbath, Psalm 92.
During the time when the Bais Hamikdash was in existence, Psalms were recited at the offering of every sacrifice. In addition, the Levites used to sing the “Psalm of the Day” (Shir Shel Yom) each day of the week. We still recite the Psalm of the Day at the conclusion of the daily morning prayer.
When the Men of the Great Assembly [Anshei Knesses Hagedolah] and the Sages who followed them arranged our daily prayers, certain Psalms of praise were included as a fitting introduction to the main prayer. This was based on the principle that before we present our petition to G-d, we should praise Him first. Hallel was prescribed for Rosh Chodesh and festivals.
In the time of the Second Bais Hamikdash, there were already saintly men who recited the whole Book of Psalms every day.
Penned by Rabbi Dr. Nissan Mindel, one of the Rebbe’s secretaries, who was given the task of preparing letters in English and other languages, in response to letters the Rebbe received
UFARATZTA RABBI SHALOM BER MUNITZ
