What is the meaning of Psalms 72:20?

The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.

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Psalms 72:20 Bible Verse Meaning

Psalms 72:20 - Understanding the Conclusion of a Prayer for the King

The verse Psalms 72:20 states, “The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.” This verse serves as a concluding statement to the entire Psalm and reflects the end of a significant prayer focusing on God’s blessing and guidance for the king.

Summary of Biblical Insights

This concluding verse calls attention to several key themes prevalent throughout the psalm:

  • Divine Governance: Throughout the Psalm, David prays for a righteous and just king, reflecting a desire for God's presence in governance.
  • Hope for the Future: The psalm anticipates a time of peace and prosperity under a wise and benevolent ruler.
  • Human Intercession: David’s prayers indicate the importance of human intercession in seeking divine favor.

Commentary Insights

Utilizing public domain commentaries, we can extract deeper meanings surrounding this verse:

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of prayer in David’s life, portraying it as essential in seeking God’s blessing not just for himself, but chiefly for the people he ruled. He points out that this concluding remark underlines the importance of acknowledging the end of official prayers and the call to reflect on God’s past dealings.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Albert Barnes elaborates on the notion that the closing of David’s prayers indicates a period of transition and fulfills the purpose for which they were spoken. He notes the importance of recording prayers as a testament to faith and reliance on God’s providence, illuminating a model for effective prayer life.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke reflects on the historical context, suggesting that David’s prayers were aimed at ensuring that future rulers would continue in the same line of faithfulness to God. Clarke highlights the significance of this closing remark as an instruction that prayer must be a consistent part of leadership.

Application and Reflection

This verse encourages us to consider our own prayer life and the impact of our petitions on our communities and leadership. It invites meditation on how we seek God’s guidance in positions of authority and influence.

Cross References

  • Psalms 1:1-3: The importance of righteous living.
  • Psalms 72:1-4: A prayer for the king’s justice and mercy.
  • Psalms 37:5: Trust in the Lord and commit your way to Him.