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Psalm Ps. 72. The last psalm of Book 2 is a royal psalm. It is a prayer that David’s heirs might be faithful kings. That means ruling God’s people well, protecting the poor and needy, and bringing blessing to all nations of the earth. Like Psalm 2, this song looks forward to a worldwide rule that embraces in full what the Messiah will accomplish. The OT anticipates the ultimate heir of David, who will take the throne and bring God’s light to all nations (see Isa. 2:1–5; 11:1–10).
Ps. 72:1–4 justice, righteousness, judge. The ideal Davidic king must provide justice for all Israelites. He also must be an example for the people in his faithfulness to God. The psalm begins, then, with a prayer for the character and rule of the Davidic king, knowing that God must give him righteousness and justice to rule (judge).
Ps. 72:5–7 while the sun endures, till the moon be no more (that is, always). This span of time suggests that this psalm ultimately refers to the Messiah. May they fear you. “They” may be God’s people (vv. 1–4), or people in general (vv. 8–11). In either case, the heir of David serves as God’s representative to the people, and is to be honored and obeyed.
Ps. 72:8–11 By submitting to the Davidic king, the Gentile kings bring themselves and their peoples under God’s own rule (see note on 2:12).
Ps. 72:8 See Zech. 9:10.
Ps. 72:12–14 These verses emphasize the needy, the poor, and the weak (see vv. 2–4). These are the people most easily subjected to oppression and violence by those in power. precious is their blood in his sight. The Davidic king will not allow the powerful to harm the defenseless.
Ps. 72:17 be blessed in him, all nations. This closely follows Gen. 22:18, speaking of the Messiah (see note on Gen. 22:15–18).
Ps. 72:18–20 may the whole earth be filled with his glory. That is, may the whole earth be the sanctuary where God makes his presence known (see note on Isa. 6:3).
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