Psalms 72

20 verses

TL;DR

A prayer for a righteous king whose reign brings justice, peace, and universal praise, culminating in God’s ultimate blessing.

Summary

Psalm 72 is a prayer for a king who administers justice to the poor and protects the vulnerable. It portrays the king as a symbol of divine righteousness, with his rule extending from sea to sea. The psalm envisions a reign marked by abundance, peace, and the worship of nations. It emphasizes the king’s compassion for the needy, the redemption of the oppressed, and the protection of life. The psalm concludes with praise to God for His wonders, and the prayers of David are declared finished.

Outline

Prayer for righteous kingship
King’s reign from sea to sea and universal worship
Praise to God and completion of David’s prayers

Themes

Divine justiceRighteous kingshipUniversal worship

Keywords

righteousnessjudgmentpeacejusticereignworshipblessingcompassion

People

kingking’s sonDavid the son of Jesse

Places

TarshishislesShebaSebaseariverwildernessmountainsLebanon

Things

raingold of Shebacornfruitprayerglory

Key Verses

Psalm 72:12: Highlights the king’s compassion toward the needy.
Psalm 72:8: Describes the king’s dominion extending from sea to sea.
Psalm 72:18: Concludes with praise to God for wondrous acts.

Questions

What does the psalm suggest about the relationship between earthly kingship and divine justice?
How does Psalm 72 use geographic imagery to convey the scope of the king’s reign?
In what ways does the psalm portray the king’s care for the poor and oppressed?

Sentiment

positive
Hopeful tone praising divine righteousness and kingdom blessings.