Psalms 72:15

Authorized King James Version

And he shall live, and to him shall be given of the gold of Sheba: prayer also shall be made for him continually; and daily shall he be praised.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וִיחִ֗י

H2421

And he shall live

to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive

וְיִתֶּן

H5414

and to him shall be given

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

לוֹ֮

מִזְּהַ֪ב

H2091

of the gold

gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky

שְׁ֫בָ֥א

H7614

of Sheba

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

וְיִתְפַּלֵּ֣ל

H6419

prayer also shall be made

to judge (officially or mentally); by extension, to intercede, pray

בַּעֲד֣וֹ

H1157

in up to or over against; generally at, beside, among, behind, for, etc

תָמִ֑יד

H8548

for him continually

properly, continuance (as indefinite extension); but used only (attributively as adjective) constant (or adverbially, constantly); elliptically the re

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#10

הַ֝יּ֗וֹם

H3117

and daily

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

#11

יְבָרֲכֶֽנְהֽוּ׃

H1288

shall he be praised

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
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?