Psalms 72:11
Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him.
Original Language Analysis
וְיִשְׁתַּחֲווּ
shall fall down
H7812
וְיִשְׁתַּחֲווּ
shall fall down
Strong's:
H7812
Word #:
1 of 7
to depress, i.e., prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or god)
כָל
H3605
כָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Cross References
Revelation 11:15And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.Psalms 86:9All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O Lord; and shall glorify thy name.Revelation 17:14These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.Revelation 21:26And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it.Revelation 21:24And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it.Isaiah 54:5For thy Maker is thine husband; the LORD of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called.
Historical Context
No Israelite king ever achieved literal worldwide rule. This prophetic language deliberately exceeds historical possibility, pointing to the Messiah's eschatological reign over all earthly powers.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's title 'King of Kings' give perspective on earthly authorities and powers?
- What does it mean to 'serve' King Jesus—how is this different from serving earthly masters?
- How should the certainty that all kings will bow to Christ shape your prayers for political leaders?
Analysis & Commentary
The statement 'all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him' universalizes submission. Not some but ALL kings and nations acknowledge his supremacy. This points beyond any historical king to Christ's ultimate authority (Revelation 19:16—King of Kings). Service rendered to Him isn't oppressive slavery but the freedom and joy of serving the rightful Lord. His reign alone deserves universal allegiance.