Psalms 72:10

Authorized King James Version

The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מַלְכֵ֥י

H4428

The kings

a king

תַרְשִׁ֣ישׁ

H8659

of Tarshish

tarshish, a place on the mediterranean, hence, the ephithet of a merchant vessel (as if for or from that port); also the name of a persian and of an i

וְ֭אִיִּים

H339

and of the isles

properly, a habitable spot (as desirable); dry land, a coast, an island

מִנְחָ֣ה

H4503

presents

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

יָשִׁ֑יבוּ

H7725

shall bring

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

מַלְכֵ֥י

H4428

The kings

a king

שְׁבָ֥א

H7614

of Sheba

sheba, the name of three early progenitors of tribes and of an ethiopian district

וּ֝סְבָ֗א

H5434

and Seba

seba, a son of cush, and the country settled by him

אֶשְׁכָּ֥ר

H814

gifts

a gratuity

#10

יַקְרִֽיבוּ׃

H7126

shall offer

to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?