Which two roles are attributed to Ezra in relation to Psalms?

• A. Author and compiler
• B. Only author
• C. Only compiler
• D. Neither

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is Ezra’s traditional roles with the Psalms: he is viewed as both an author and a compiler. In older traditional lines, Ezra, the post-exilic scribe and reformer, is seen as shaping sacred writing after the return from exile. As an author, some traditions attribute to him the composition of certain psalms or at least a shaping of their theological perspective. More consistently, he is regarded as a compiler—organizing and finalizing the Psalter, bringing together diverse psalms into a cohesive collection for worship. So, the two roles attributed to Ezra in relation to Psalms are that he is considered both an author (in some traditions) and a compiler (in broader traditional view).