Psalms 72:13
He shall spare the poor and needy, and shall save the souls of the needy.
Original Language Analysis
יָ֭חֹס
He shall spare
H2347
יָ֭חֹס
He shall spare
Strong's:
H2347
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, to cover, i.e., (figuratively) to compassionate
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 7
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
דַּ֣ל
the poor
H1800
דַּ֣ל
the poor
Strong's:
H1800
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, dangling, i.e., (by implication) weak or thin
Cross References
Ezekiel 34:16I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.Psalms 109:31For he shall stand at the right hand of the poor, to save him from those that condemn his soul.Matthew 5:3Blessed are the poor in spirit: for their's is the kingdom of heaven.
Historical Context
Saving 'souls' uses Hebrew 'nephesh,' meaning life or person—the whole being, not just spiritual aspect. Biblical salvation is holistic, addressing spiritual, physical, emotional, and social needs.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's salvation address your whole person, not just spiritual dimension?
- What is the relationship between evangelism (saving souls) and mercy ministry (meeting physical needs)?
- How can you reflect Christ's compassion by 'sparing' and 'saving' the vulnerable around you?
Analysis & Commentary
The king 'shall spare the poor and needy' and 'save the souls of the needy,' showing both compassion and power. 'Spare' means treat with mercy; 'save' means deliver from danger. This goes beyond charity to actual rescue and transformation. Christ saves not just bodies but souls—providing eternal salvation, not mere temporal relief. Yet spiritual salvation often includes tangible care for physical needs, as Jesus's ministry demonstrated (healing, feeding, etc.).