Psalm 41
Psalm 41 is the 41st psalm of the Book of Psalms and the final psalm in Book One of the collection. In the slightly different numbering system used in the Greek Septuagint and Latin Vulgate translations of the Bible, this psalm is Psalm 40. Verse 13. This verse is not the final verse of the Psalm itself, but represents a liturgical conclusion to the first segment of the Book of Psalms. Interpretation. Alexander Kirkpatrick suggests that this psalm "ends the first book of the Psalter ... with a hope, destined to be illuminated with a new light by the  revelation of the Gospel". Uses. Judaism. Verse 4 is found in the repetition of the Amidah during Rosh Hashanah. Psalm 41 is one of the ten Psalms of the Tikkun HaKlali of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov. New Testament. Judas Iscariot is seen as the man who "lifts his heel" against his friend with whom he shared bread. This is poignant in the context of the last supper, as Jesus washed Judas' feet, shared bread with him and was repaid by Judas giving 'his heel' figuratively. This imagery is also ironic as the Messiah would crush the serpent's head under  'his heel' in a Christian view of Genesis 3. Catholic Church. This psalm was traditionally performed during the celebration of Matins in abbeys, according to the Rule of Saint Benedict of Nursia established in 530. In the Liturgy of the Hours today, Psalm 41 is sung or recited at Vespers of a Friday of the first week. The main cycle of liturgical prayers takes place over four weeks. Book of Common Prayer. In the Church of England's "Book of Common Prayer", this psalm is appointed to be read on the evening of the eighth day of the month. Psalm