Psalms 72:1

Give the king thy judgments, O God, and thy righteousness unto the king’s son.

Psalms 72:1 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 72 is a royal psalm attributed to Solomon, the son of David. It is a prayer for the righteous rule of a king, expressing hope for a just and prosperous reign. While it primarily refers to Solomon, it also carries messianic implications, pointing to the future reign of Jesus Christ. The verse asks God to give the king His judgments and His righteousness. God’s judgments refer to His righteous decisions and discernment; as the ultimate authority and judge, God possesses perfect wisdom and justice. The psalmist acknowledges that true wisdom and righteousness come from God alone, and the king is to be an instrument of God’s justice on earth.

Meaning

The phrase “king’s son” is parallel to “the king,” likely referring to Solomon as David’s son, and in the messianic sense, to Christ as the Son of God. The request is for the king to be endowed with divine justice and righteousness, not merely human abilities. This verse sets the foundation for the rest of the psalm, which describes the king’s righteous judgment, care for the poor, and the prosperity of his reign. The prayer recognizes that a ruler’s justice and righteousness are gifts from God, and that human rulers are representatives of God’s reign on earth.

Biblical connections

This verse foreshadows the messianic hope in the future King, Jesus Christ. Jesus, as the Son of God, is the ultimate King and the embodiment of divine justice and righteousness. He perfectly fulfils the prayer expressed in this verse, as His reign brings forth true justice, righteousness, and peace. The Targum interprets “the King” as the King Messiah, and some Jewish interpretations see this as a prayer concerning Christ.

Application

As believers, we can draw several lessons from this verse. Firstly, it reminds us to pray for our leaders, that they may govern with wisdom, justice, and righteousness. We should seek God’s guidance and righteousness in our own lives as well. Additionally, the verse invites us to reflect on the reign of Jesus Christ, who exemplifies the perfect King. By following His teachings and imitating His character, we can contribute to a more just and righteous society.

Reflection

This verse is a model for praying for leaders, that they would be granted God’s wisdom and righteousness. It also reminds believers that all true justice and righteousness originate in God and are to be sought from Him. The prayer recognizes that a ruler’s justice and righteousness are gifts from God, and that human rulers are representatives of God’s reign on earth.