Establishing Righteous Judgment: Exploring Psalm 72

Executive Summary ✨

Psalm 72, a prayer for the king, traditionally attributed to Solomon or David, resonates deeply with themes of justice, compassion, and divine rule. It is a profound supplication that the king may govern with righteousness, defend the poor and needy, and usher in an era of peace and prosperity. This prayer, far from being merely a historical document, points to the ultimate King, Jesus Christ, whose reign transcends earthly limitations and embodies perfect justice and love. The Psalm calls us to examine our own hearts and roles in promoting justice, to pray for those in authority, and to anticipate the coming of Christ’s Kingdom where righteousness dwells. It’s a call to establish righteous judgment in all aspects of our lives, echoing the divine mandate for justice and compassion.

Introduction: Psalm 72 is more than just a royal prayer; it is a prophetic vision of God’s ideal ruler and a plea for divine guidance in earthly governance. We often read scriptures with the lens of our modern world, but delving into the original context and the rich history of interpretation unlocks deeper meaning. It’s a testament to the enduring power of prayer and a timeless reminder of the qualities that define a just and righteous reign. Establishing righteous judgment is not just a political aspiration but a spiritual imperative.

Commentary on Psalm 72

Psalm 72:1 (KJV) Give the king thy judgments, O God, and thy righteousness unto the king’s son. (NKJV) Give the king Your judgments, O God, And Your righteousness to the king’s Son.

This opening verse establishes the divine source of true justice. The Psalmist recognizes that the king’s ability to rule justly does not stem from his own wisdom or power, but from God’s grace. The phrase “thy judgments” implies understanding and applying God’s law with wisdom and discernment. “Thy righteousness” signifies moral perfection and adherence to God’s standards. The mention of “the king’s son” hints at the hereditary nature of the Davidic line, but also foreshadows the ultimate King, the Son of God, Jesus Christ.

Spiritual Application: We should seek God’s wisdom and righteousness in all our decisions, remembering that true justice originates from Him. Pray for leaders to govern with wisdom and integrity, guided by God’s principles.

Psalm 72:2 (KJV) He shall judge thy people with righteousness, and thy poor with judgment. (NKJV) He will judge Your people with righteousness, And Your poor with justice.

The core duty of a king, according to this verse, is to administer justice with righteousness, especially towards the vulnerable. The word “poor” here encompasses not only material poverty but also spiritual and social vulnerability. The king is called to be a protector of the marginalized, ensuring they receive fair treatment and are not exploited. This verse echoes the prophetic call for justice found throughout the Old Testament, particularly in the writings of Isaiah and Amos. The concept of judging “with righteousness” emphasizes the need for impartiality and fairness.

Spiritual Application: We are called to advocate for the voiceless and defend the rights of the vulnerable. Examine our own biases and strive to treat everyone with fairness and compassion, reflecting God’s love for all.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria notes, “Δικαιοσύνη γὰρ ὁ Θεὸς, καὶ δικαιοσύνην ἀγαπᾷ” (Dikaiosynē gar ho Theos, kai dikaiosynēn agapa) – “For God is righteousness, and He loves righteousness” (Commentary on Psalms). This reinforces the idea that just governance reflects God’s own character.

Psalm 72:3 (KJV) The mountains shall bring peace to the people, and the little hills, by righteousness. (NKJV) The mountains will bring peace to the people, And the little hills, by righteousness.

This verse uses poetic imagery to describe the prosperity and peace that result from righteous governance. “Mountains” and “little hills” are symbols of stability, strength, and provision. The idea is that when righteousness prevails, even the natural world seems to participate in the blessing, bringing peace and abundance to the people. This resonates with the concept of *shalom*, which encompasses not only peace but also wholeness, well-being, and harmony in all aspects of life. The urban context is that justice in the royal courts and the government would allow for peaceful expansion into the hinterlands and trade development, fostering prosperity.

Spiritual Application: Strive to create environments of peace and harmony in our own lives and communities, reflecting the transformative power of righteousness. Recognize that justice and peace are interconnected and work to promote both.

Consider how you can use the services of our [dohost](https://dohost.us) partners to foster peace in your own life.

Psalm 72:4 (KJV) He shall judge the poor of the people, he shall save the children of the needy, and shall break in pieces the oppressor. (NKJV) He will judge the poor of the people; He will save the children of the needy, And will break in pieces the oppressor.

This verse further emphasizes the king’s role as a defender of the vulnerable. “Judge the poor” implies providing them with justice and protection from exploitation. “Save the children of the needy” highlights the king’s responsibility to care for orphans and ensure their well-being. “Break in pieces the oppressor” signifies the king’s duty to confront injustice and protect the people from those who would exploit them. This verse resonates with the Exodus narrative, where God delivered the Israelites from the oppression of the Egyptians. The verb break in pieces uses a word which can also mean to discourage.

Spiritual Application: Actively confront injustice and stand up for the oppressed. Use your resources and influence to protect the vulnerable and advocate for their rights. Support organizations that work to alleviate poverty and provide care for those in need.

Psalm 72:5 (KJV) They shall fear thee as long as the sun and moon endure, throughout all generations. (NKJV) They shall fear You as long as the sun and moon endure, Throughout all generations.

This verse speaks to the enduring nature of the king’s influence, but ultimately points towards the eternal reign of God. “Fear thee” does not imply terror but rather reverence, respect, and obedience. The phrase “as long as the sun and moon endure” suggests a perpetual and unchanging reality. However, earthly kings are mortal, and their reigns are limited. Therefore, this verse ultimately points to the eternal reign of God, whose kingdom will never end. The repetition of throughout all generations shows a lineage of kings, but also foreshadows the eternal nature of Christ’s Kingdom.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a deep reverence for God and seek to live in obedience to His will. Remember that earthly authorities are temporary and ultimately accountable to God. Focus on building an eternal legacy through faith, love, and service.

Psalm 72:6 (KJV) He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers that water the earth. (NKJV) He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass, Like showers that water the earth.

This verse uses agricultural imagery to describe the king’s beneficial influence. “Rain upon the mown grass” signifies refreshment, renewal, and growth. Just as rain nourishes the earth and allows new life to spring forth, the king’s righteous rule brings blessing and prosperity to the people. The image of “showers that water the earth” emphasizes the abundance and transformative power of the king’s reign. This is especially poignant when considering the arid climate of the region, where rain was essential for survival.

Spiritual Application: Be a source of refreshment and renewal to those around you. Seek to bring blessing and prosperity to your community through acts of kindness, compassion, and service.

Psalm 72:7 (KJV) In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth. (NKJV) In His days the righteous shall flourish, And abundance of peace, Until the moon is no more.

The righteous flourishing and abundant peace are direct consequences of just leadership. It’s a world where virtue is rewarded and harmony prevails. The phrase “so long as the moon endureth” suggests a long period of peace, but also hints at the ultimate and eternal peace that will be established in God’s Kingdom. This flourishing is not just material but also spiritual, with righteousness becoming the norm rather than the exception. This abundance of peace is what the church teaches as true salvation and communion with God.

Spiritual Application: Pursue righteousness in your own life and strive to create environments of peace and harmony. Trust in God’s promise of abundant peace and work to build a world where righteousness flourishes.

Psalm 72:8 (KJV) He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth. (NKJV) He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, And from the River to the ends of the earth.

This verse speaks of the king’s universal dominion, extending “from sea to sea” and “from the river unto the ends of the earth.” While this may have initially referred to the geographical boundaries of the Davidic kingdom, it ultimately points to the universal reign of Christ, whose kingdom encompasses all nations and peoples. The “river” is likely a reference to the Euphrates, which marked the eastern boundary of Israel’s promised land. It’s important to understand that this dominion is not based on force or coercion, but on righteousness, justice, and love.

Spiritual Application: Recognize that God’s kingdom is universal and embraces all nations and peoples. Pray for the spread of the Gospel to the ends of the earth and seek to build bridges of understanding and reconciliation between different cultures and communities.

Psalm 72:9 (KJV) They that dwell in the wilderness shall bow before him; and his enemies shall lick the dust. (NKJV) Those who dwell in the wilderness will bow before Him, And His enemies will lick the dust.

Even those who dwell in the wilderness, symbolizing the marginalized and isolated, will acknowledge the king’s authority, while his enemies will be utterly humiliated. The phrase “lick the dust” is an idiom signifying complete defeat and submission. This is not necessarily a call for violence but rather a symbolic representation of the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It also speaks to the king’s ability to reach even the most remote and isolated communities, bringing them under his righteous rule.

Spiritual Application: Remember that God’s love extends to even the most marginalized and isolated. Reach out to those who feel forgotten or overlooked and offer them hope and encouragement.

Psalm 72:10 (KJV) The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. (NKJV) The kings of Tarshish and of the isles Will bring presents; The kings of Sheba and Seba Will offer gifts.

This verse describes the tribute and homage that will be paid to the king by foreign rulers. “Tarshish” likely refers to a distant trading port in Spain, while “Sheba and Seba” were wealthy kingdoms in Arabia. The act of bringing “presents” and “gifts” symbolizes recognition of the king’s authority and a desire for peaceful relations. This verse reflects the economic and political realities of the ancient world, where rulers often sought to establish alliances and secure trade routes through diplomacy and gift-giving.

Spiritual Application: Seek to build bridges of understanding and cooperation with people from different cultures and backgrounds. Offer your gifts and talents in service to God and to others.

Psalm 72:11 (KJV) Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him. (NKJV) Yes, all kings shall fall down before Him; All nations shall serve Him.

This verse emphasizes the universality of the king’s authority, stating that “all kings shall fall down before him” and “all nations shall serve him.” This is not simply a statement of political power but a recognition of the king’s divine mandate and his embodiment of righteousness and justice. Ultimately, this verse points to the universal dominion of Christ, before whom every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that He is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11). It’s a reminder that earthly rulers are ultimately accountable to God.

Spiritual Application: Recognize that all authority ultimately comes from God and that earthly rulers are accountable to Him. Submit to God’s authority in your own life and seek to live in obedience to His will.

Psalm 72:12 (KJV) For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper. (NKJV) For He will deliver the needy when he cries out, The poor also, and him who has no helper.

This verse highlights the king’s compassion and his willingness to help those in need. He “shall deliver the needy when he crieth,” indicating his responsiveness to the cries of the vulnerable. The phrase “him that hath no helper” emphasizes the king’s role as a protector of the marginalized and those who have no one else to turn to. This resonates with the teachings of Jesus, who consistently reached out to the poor, the sick, and the outcast.

Spiritual Application: Be attentive to the cries of those in need and offer your help and support. Remember that every act of kindness and compassion is a reflection of God’s love.

Patristic Insight: St. Basil the Great said, “Τὸ δὲ ἔλεος, θεοειδέστατόν ἐστι τῶν πραγμάτων” (To de eleos, theoeidestaton esti tōn pragmatōn) – “Compassion is the most godlike of all things” (Homily on the Poor). This emphasizes the divine nature of acts of mercy.

Psalm 72:13 (KJV) He shall spare the poor and needy, and shall save the souls of the needy. (NKJV) He will spare the poor and needy, And will save the souls of the needy.

This verse expands on the king’s compassion, stating that he “shall spare the poor and needy” and “shall save the souls of the needy.” This suggests not only physical protection but also spiritual redemption. The phrase “save the souls” implies that the king’s righteous rule extends beyond the material realm and addresses the deeper needs of the human heart. This verse points to the ultimate salvation offered by Christ, who saves us from sin and death and offers us eternal life.

Spiritual Application: Seek to address both the physical and spiritual needs of those around you. Share the Gospel with those who are lost and offer them the hope of salvation through Christ.

Psalm 72:14 (KJV) He shall redeem their soul from deceit and violence: and precious shall their blood be in his sight. (NKJV) He will redeem their life from deceit and violence; And precious shall be their blood in His sight.

The verse emphasizes the king’s protection of his people from harm and exploitation, valuing their lives. This redemption goes beyond physical safety and encompasses freedom from deception and oppression. “Precious shall their blood be in his sight” signifies that the king values the lives of his people and will not allow them to be unjustly harmed. It reminds us of the great value God places on human life.

Spiritual Application: Advocate for justice and protect those who are vulnerable to exploitation and violence. Remember that every human life is precious in God’s sight.

Psalm 72:15 (KJV) 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. (NKJV) And He shall live; And the gold of Sheba will be given to Him; Prayer also will be made for Him continually, And daily He shall be praised.

The continued prosperity and honor given to the king is emphasized by this verse. He “shall live,” suggesting a long and prosperous reign. The “gold of Sheba” symbolizes the wealth and tribute that will be offered to him. “Prayer also shall be made for him continually” and “daily shall he be praised” highlight the importance of intercession and adoration in sustaining righteous leadership. This also symbolizes that we must praise the one who is leading us and always pray for them, asking God to make them worthy of their position.

Spiritual Application: Pray for those in authority and offer them your support and encouragement. Cultivate a heart of gratitude and praise God for His blessings.

Psalm 72:16 (KJV) There shall be an 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. (NKJV) There will be an abundance of grain in the earth, On the top of the mountains; Its fruit shall wave like Lebanon; And those of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth.

This verse describes the abundance and prosperity that will characterize the king’s reign. “An handful of corn in the earth upon the top of the mountains” signifies fertility and agricultural abundance, even in the most challenging environments. The “fruit thereof shall shake like Lebanon” suggests a bountiful harvest and overflowing prosperity. “They of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth” emphasizes the vitality and well-being of the urban population. This shows us how everyone, from the agriculture to the urban areas of the kingdom flourished under a righteous king.

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s provision and seek to create environments of abundance and prosperity. Remember that even small acts of kindness and generosity can have a profound impact on others.

Psalm 72:17 (KJV) 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. (NKJV) His name shall endure forever; His name shall continue as long as the sun; And men shall be blessed in Him; All nations shall call Him blessed.

This verse speaks of the eternal remembrance and blessings associated with the king’s name. “His name shall endure for ever” and “his name shall be continued as long as the sun” emphasize the lasting impact of his reign. “Men shall be blessed in him” suggests that the king will be a source of blessing and prosperity to all who live under his rule. This foreshadows the eternal reign of Christ, whose name will be praised throughout all ages and in whom all nations will be blessed. This is not to say the king is a savior, but that the savior will follow in the example of that great king.

Spiritual Application: Strive to live a life that honors God and blesses others. Remember that our actions have lasting consequences and that we can leave a legacy of faith, love, and service.

Psalm 72:18-19 (KJV) Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen. (NKJV) Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, Who only does wondrous things! And blessed be His glorious name forever! And let the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen, and Amen.

These concluding verses are a doxology, giving praise and glory to God. “Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel” acknowledges God as the source of all blessings. “Who only doeth wondrous things” emphasizes God’s power and His ability to work miracles. “Blessed be his glorious name for ever” signifies the eternal praise and adoration due to God. “Let the whole earth be filled with his glory” is a prayer for the universal recognition of God’s majesty and power. “Amen, and Amen” is a double affirmation, signifying agreement and commitment. This concludes the prayer and all the nations are asked to be in agreement to such a prayer.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a heart of gratitude and praise God for His blessings. Seek to spread His glory to the ends of the earth through your words and actions.

Reflections on Righteous Rule

The concept of righteous rule is a multifaceted one, encompassing various key principles:

• Justice and Fairness: A righteous ruler must administer justice impartially and fairly, without favoritism or discrimination.
• Compassion for the Vulnerable: A righteous ruler must show compassion for the poor, the needy, and the marginalized, protecting them from exploitation and oppression.
• Integrity and Honesty: A righteous ruler must be a person of integrity and honesty, upholding truth and righteousness in all his dealings.
• Humility and Service: A righteous ruler must be humble and serve the people, putting their needs above his own.
• Accountability to God: A righteous ruler must recognize that all authority comes from God and that he is accountable to Him for his actions.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about Psalm 72:

• Q: Is Psalm 72 only about earthly kings?
  A: While it initially refers to earthly kings, it ultimately points to the ultimate King, Jesus Christ, whose reign embodies perfect justice and love.
• Q: How does Psalm 72 relate to the New Testament?
  A: The themes of justice, compassion, and universal dominion found in Psalm 72 are echoed in the teachings of Jesus and the descriptions of His Kingdom in the New Testament. Jesus is seen as the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant and the ultimate King.
• Q: What are some practical ways to apply the teachings of Psalm 72 in my daily life?
  A: Strive to live with integrity and honesty, treat others with fairness and compassion, advocate for the vulnerable, and pray for those in authority.
• Q: Does the Coptic Orthodox Church have special prayers based on Psalm 72?
  A: The Coptic Orthodox Church incorporates themes of Psalm 72 in prayers for the leadership of the church and nation, emphasizing the need for justice, mercy, and divine guidance in governance.

Conclusion

Psalm 72 is a timeless prayer that speaks to the longing for a just and righteous world. It reminds us that true leadership is rooted in humility, compassion, and a commitment to justice. The Psalm, in its call to establish righteous judgment, prompts us to reflect on our own roles in promoting justice and righteousness in our communities. It challenges us to pray for those in authority, to advocate for the vulnerable, and to anticipate the coming of Christ’s Kingdom, where righteousness will dwell forever. Ultimately, the prayer of Psalm 72 calls us to imitate Christ, who is the perfect embodiment of justice, love, and compassion, and to strive to build a world that reflects His Kingdom.

Tags

Psalm 72, righteous rule, justice, compassion, king, Solomon, David, prayer, Coptic Orthodox, Patristic, righteousness, kingdom, Jesus Christ

Meta Description

Explore Psalm 72: A Prayer for the King’s Righteous Rule with Coptic Orthodox insights. Uncover its message of justice, compassion, and foreshadowing of Christ’s Kingdom. Learn how to establish righteous judgment in your life.