Chronicles of a Journeyman

Psalm 72

Prayers for the King

1-4: Make him a just and righteous ruler

5-7: Let him promote godly fear forever

8-11: Give him dominion over the nations

12-14: May he protect the poor and needy

15-17: May he prosper with a lasting legacy

18-19: Praise to the LORD God of Israel

20: Closing of psalm and Book 2 of Psalms

This psalm, written seemingly by David for Solomon (or by Solomon himself) reflects the desire of the king for his royal lineage.

He prays for justice, righteousness, dominion, equity, godly fear, compassion, prosperity and an enduring legacy for the king and his sons after him.

Ultimately, it is a pointer to the coming reign of the Messiah who will be a seed of David, whose reign will be over all nations (vs 11), and whose name lasts forever (vs 17).

The psalm concludes with praise to the God of Israel (YHWH), and a postscript indicates an end to the prayers (requests) of David. This concludes Book 2 of Psalms.