Psalms 72 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of Psalms 72

The Book of Psalms is a collection of sacred songs and prayers attributed to various authors, including King David, the renowned ruler of ancient Israel. Psalm 72, in particular, is believed to have been written by Solomon, David’s son and successor to the throne.

This psalm offers a glimpse into the ideal characteristics and responsibilities of a righteous king. It foreshadows the coming of a just and compassionate ruler who will bring peace, prosperity, and justice to the people. As we delve into this passage, we will see how it echoes the themes of wisdom, mercy, and the universal reach of God’s kingdom, as found in other biblical texts such as the book of Proverbs and the prophecies of Isaiah.

The psalm begins by invoking God’s guidance and blessing for the king, that he may judge the people with righteousness and the poor with justice. It then describes the bountiful blessings that will flow from such a ruler, including the flourishing of the land, the protection of the weak, and the adoration of all nations. The passage culminates in a profound declaration of the eternal and all-encompassing nature of God’s dominion, a truth that is further emphasized in the writings of the prophets.

Psalms 72:1-4

The verses in Psalms 72:1-4 can be broken down into several important sections. The first part of the verse begins with a prayer for the king, “Give the king your judgments, O God, and your righteousness to the king’s son.” This sets the tone of the psalm, emphasizing the importance of God’s guidance and righteousness for the king. The king’s responsibility is not just to rule with his own judgments, but to seek God’s wisdom and righteousness in his decisions and governing.

This concept of seeking God’s guidance in leadership is an important theme throughout the Bible. Kings and leaders in the Old Testament often faced challenges and had to make difficult decisions. Those who turned to God for wisdom and righteousness, like King Solomon, were often blessed with success and prosperity (1 Kings 3:5-14). On the other hand, kings who relied on their own understanding, like King Rehoboam, faced consequences for their pride and disobedience to God’s commands (1 Kings 12:6-17).

The next part of the verse emphasizes the purpose of righteous leadership, stating, “May he judge your people with righteousness, and your poor with justice.” This highlights the role of the king to not only lead the people with righteousness but also to ensure justice for the poor and vulnerable in society. This reflects the biblical theme of God’s concern for the oppressed and marginalized, as seen throughout the Old Testament in verses like Isaiah 1:17, which calls for justice for the oppressed.

Furthermore, the mention of the poor and needy in these verses is significant. Throughout the Bible, God’s heart for the poor is evident, with many verses emphasizing the importance of caring for the marginalized in society (Proverbs 14:31, James 2:5). Jesus Himself also spoke about the importance of showing compassion and providing for those in need (Matthew 25:35-40). Thus, the psalmist’s prayer for the king to judge the people with righteousness and the poor with justice aligns with God’s heart for justice and compassion. Psalms 72:1-4 sets a powerful example of the kind of leadership that honors God. These verses remind us of the timeless message of the Bible that true leadership is not about power and authority alone, but about humility, righteousness, and a heart for justice and mercy, reflecting the character of God Himself.

Psalms 72:5-7

The verses in Psalms 72:5-7 are as follows: “May they fear you as long as the sun shines, as long as the moon gives light, through all generations.” May the king’s rule be refreshing like spring rain on freshly cut grass, like the showers that water the earth. May all the godly flourish during his reign. May there be abundant prosperity until the moon is no more.”

Starting with the first section, “May they fear you as long as the sun shines, as long as the moon gives light, through all generations,” emphasizes the everlasting fear and reverence that is owed to God, extending beyond just one generation. This reflects the idea that God’s authority and presence should be acknowledged and respected by all people, throughout time, from sunrise to sunset, from moonrise to moonset. It conveys the eternal nature of God’s power and dominion over the earth and all its inhabitants.

Moving on, “May the king’s rule be refreshing like spring rain on freshly cut grass, like the showers that water the earth,” these words paint a picture of a righteous and just ruler whose leadership brings about renewal and growth, much like how rain nourishes and revives the land. This imagery signifies a leader who brings blessings and prosperity to the people under his care, symbolizing the importance of having a ruler who governs with wisdom, fairness, and compassion. This verse not only speaks to the qualities of a good earthly king but also alludes to the ultimate King – God, who provides for His people and showers them with His grace and blessings. All the godly may flourish during his reign in the final section. May there be abundant prosperity until the moon is no more,” the psalmist expresses the desire for the righteous to thrive and prosper under the leadership of a godly king. This highlights the connection between righteousness and prosperity, indicating that a society that follows God’s ways will experience blessings and abundance. The reference to prosperity lasting “until the moon is no more” underscores the idea of enduring prosperity under the reign of a righteous leader, hinting at the everlasting nature of God’s provision and care for His people. These verses in the broader context of the Psalms also tie into the themes of justice, righteousness, and the ideal characteristics of a king as outlined in Psalms 72. They echo the sentiments of other biblical passages that emphasize the importance of fearing God, seeking His guidance in leadership, and the correlation between righteousness and blessings. The imagery of rain and flourishing vegetation is commonly used throughout the Bible to symbolize God’s provision and blessings upon His people (Deuteronomy 32:2, Isaiah 55:10-11), further reinforcing the idea of God as the ultimate source of all goodness and prosperity.

Psalms 72:8-11

We can break down a few key sections in Psalms 72:8-11 for a more detailed analysis.

“For he shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.”

This part of the verse speaks of the king’s dominion extending from sea to sea, indicating a vast territory under his rule. Many people often see this as a reference to King Solomon, known for his wisdom and vast kingdom, in the context of Psalms 72. Solomon’s reign was marked by prosperity, peace, and justice, fulfilling the ideals of a righteous ruler as described in this passage. The imagery of sea to sea and river to the ends of the earth symbolizes the extent of his authority and the reach of his influence. This theme of universal kingship resonates throughout the Bible, particularly in the prophecies regarding the Messiah who would come from the line of David to rule over all nations.

“They that dwell in the wilderness shall bow before him; and his enemies shall lick the dust.”

This section describes the reverence and submission of those under the king’s rule, even those dwelling in the wilderness. It portrays the idea of all nations, including those on the fringes of civilization, recognizing the authority and greatness of the king. The mention of enemies licking the dust signifies their defeat and humiliation before the king’s might. God’s enemies are vanquished and forced to acknowledge His power and sovereignty in the broader biblical context. Prophetic books like Isaiah and Micah often speak of a future time when all nations would worship and serve the Lord, reflecting a similar vision of universal acknowledgment of God’s reign.

“The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him.”

This segment mentions the tribute and gifts brought to the king by the rulers of distant lands like Tarshish, Sheba, and Seba. These offerings symbolize not only the wealth and acknowledgment of the king’s supremacy but also the desire for peace and alliance with his kingdom. The idea of all kings and nations serving and bowing before the king indicates a universal recognition of his authority and righteousness. This vision of global homage and subservience to the king is a recurring motif in the biblical narrative, pointing towards the ultimate kingship of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. People from all nations can see the wise men from the East bringing gifts to baby Jesus in the New Testament as a foreshadowing of this prophecy, signifying the recognition of Jesus as the rightful King and Savior. Psalms 72:8-11 paints a vivid picture of an ideal king ruling with righteousness and justice, whose dominion extends over all nations and who is universally acknowledged and revered. Through its imagery and prophetic vision, this passage not only celebrates the reign of earthly kings like Solomon but also points towards the fulfillment of God’s ultimate plan for a universal King, Jesus Christ, whose kingdom will encompass all peoples and nations for eternity.

Psalms 72:12-14

The verses in Psalms 72:12-14 can be broken down into the following sections: Section 1 delivers the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help.
He will take pity on the weak and the needy
and save the needy from death. The psalmist in this section is attributing qualities to a king that reflect God’s own character. Here, the king is described as a deliverer of the needy and afflicted, illustrating a leader who is compassionate and just. This portrayal aligns with God’s heart for the marginalized and vulnerable. Throughout the Bible, there are numerous instances where God shows compassion and mercy towards the needy and oppressed. For example, in Psalm 82:3-4, it says, “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” This highlights the importance of caring for those who are in need and how true leadership involves advocating for the marginalized and disadvantaged.

Section 2: “He will rescue them from oppression and violence,
for precious is their blood in his sight.”

This section continues to emphasize the king’s commitment to protecting the vulnerable from oppression and violence. The mention of the preciousness of their blood in his sight underscores the value that God places on every individual. This concept is foundational throughout the Bible, where God’s love for humanity is evident through His actions and sacrifices. The verse in Exodus 22:21-22 states, “Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” Do not take advantage of the widow or the fatherless.” This verse reflects the consistent theme of God’s concern for those who are mistreated and oppressed, and the expectation for His people to act with justice and compassion towards them.

Section 3: “Long may he live!
May gold from Sheba be given him.
May people ever pray for him
and bless him all day long. The psalmist in this final section offers prayers for the king’s long life, prosperity, and blessings. It was common in ancient cultures for people to pray for their rulers and leaders for their well-being and success. This reflects the belief that a leader’s stability and wisdom would bring prosperity and peace to the nation they governed. Similarly, in 1 Timothy 2:1-2, it says, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” This verse highlights the importance of praying for leaders, recognizing the impact they have on society and the need for their guidance to be rooted in righteousness and justice. Psalms 72:12-14 portrays a king who embodies characteristics of compassion, justice, and protection for the needy and oppressed. The psalmist’s depiction of a righteous ruler reflects God’s own heart for His people and sets a standard for leadership that prioritizes caring for the vulnerable and marginalized. These verses serve as a reminder of the importance of leaders who govern with integrity and empathy, seeking the well-being of all individuals under their care.

Psalms 72:15-17

Several important sections in Psalms 72:15-17 can be dissected for a deeper understanding.

1. “And he shall live, and to him shall be given of the gold of Sheba: prayer also shall be made for him continually; and daily shall he be praised.”
   This verse seems to be pointing towards the long-lasting reign of a righteous king. The mention of the gold of Sheba is significant as it was known for its wealth and beauty. The Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon in the Bible, bringing him gifts of gold and spices, impressed by his wisdom and wealth. This reference could indicate the prosperity and abundance that will accompany this righteous king. The idea of continual prayer and daily praise for him suggests a leader who is held in high regard and whose rule brings blessings and prosperity to his people.

2. “There shall be a handful of corn in the earth upon the top of the mountains; the fruit thereof shall shake like Lebanon: and they of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth.”
   This section paints a vivid image of abundance and fertility under the rule of this righteous king. The mention of a “handful of corn in the earth upon the top of the mountains” signifies a miraculous harvest, even in seemingly inhospitable places. This imagery is reminiscent of the story of Joseph in Egypt, where he interpreted Pharaoh’s dream of seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. The mention of Lebanon, known for its tall and majestic cedar trees, denotes strength and stability. The flourishing of the city like the grass of the earth symbolizes growth and prosperity for the people under the king’s rule.

3. “His name shall endure for ever: his name shall be continued as long as the sun: and men shall be blessed in him: all nations shall call him blessed.”
   This final section emphasizes the eternal impact of the righteous king’s reign. The idea that “his name shall endure forever” echoes the promise made to King David regarding the eternal nature of his kingdom through the coming of the Messiah. The mention of the sun, a symbol of permanence and vitality, reinforces the idea of the enduring legacy of this king. The blessing that he brings to his people and the honor bestowed upon him by all nations further underscore his righteousness and the favor of God upon him. Psalms 72:15-17 paints a picture of a righteous king whose reign brings prosperity, abundance, and blessings to his people. The verses echo themes of justice, wisdom, and divine favor that run throughout the Bible, particularly in the stories of King Solomon and the promises of the Messiah. It serves as a reminder of the importance of righteous leadership and the lasting impact it can have on a nation and its people.

Psalms 72:18-20

The psalmist concludes this beautiful prayer in Psalms 72:18-20 with a heartfelt acknowledgment of praise to the Lord. Let’s break down the important sections of these verses:

1. “Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. The psalmist in this opening section begins by praising the Lord, calling Him the God of Israel. This declaration not only acknowledges God’s sovereignty but also highlights His special relationship with the nation of Israel. The phrase “who only doeth wondrous things” emphasizes the miraculous nature of God’s works. Throughout the Bible, God’s wondrous deeds are a recurring theme, showcasing His power, wisdom, and faithfulness. From the parting of the Red Sea to the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, the Bible is filled with accounts of God’s miraculous works that demonstrate His glory and might.

2. “And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen.”

Here, the psalmist magnifies the name of the Lord, recognizing His everlasting glory. The psalmist’s desire for the whole earth to be filled with God’s glory reflects a universal perspective on the worship of God. This echoes themes found throughout the Bible, such as in Isaiah 6:3 where the seraphim cry out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” The psalmist’s repetition of “Amen, and Amen” signifies a strong affirmation and agreement with the prayer, emphasizing the importance and sincerity of this declaration of praise.

1. “The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.”

Finally, the psalm concludes with this note about the prayers of David, the son of Jesse, being finished. David, a central figure in the Old Testament, was known for his heartfelt prayers, deep faith, and significant contributions to the Israelites as a king and a psalmist. This mention of David serves as a reminder of the importance of prayer and faithfulness in the life of a believer. It also ties this psalm back to the legacy of King David, highlighting his reverence for God and his commitment to seeking Him in prayer. Psalms 72:18-20 encapsulates a beautiful expression of praise and adoration to God, emphasizing His wondrous works, everlasting glory, and the significance of prayer. Through these verses, we are reminded of God’s power and faithfulness, the universal call to worship Him, and the legacy of faithful servants like David. We reflect on these words and are inspired to offer our own prayers of thanksgiving and praise to the Lord who continues to do wondrous things in our lives.

After Psalms 72

The king’s reign had brought justice and prosperity to the land. The poor and needy were cared for, and the oppressed found relief. The people lived in peace, and the king’s name was revered far and wide. Yet, as the sun began to set on this golden age, the wise knew that the true test of the king’s legacy would come in the days to follow. For the true measure of a ruler’s greatness lies not in the splendor of his reign, but in the foundations he lays for those who will come after him. And so, with a heavy heart, the reverend turned the page, knowing that the next chapter would reveal whether this king had built a kingdom that would stand the test of time.