Psalms 72:20
The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.
Original Language Analysis
כָּלּ֥וּ
are ended
H3615
כָּלּ֥וּ
are ended
Strong's:
H3615
Word #:
1 of 5
to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitive (to complete, prepare, consume)
תְפִלּ֑וֹת
The prayers
H8605
תְפִלּ֑וֹת
The prayers
Strong's:
H8605
Word #:
2 of 5
intercession, supplication; by implication, a hymn
Cross References
2 Samuel 23:1Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said,Job 31:40Let thistles grow instead of wheat, and cockle instead of barley. The words of Job are ended.Jeremiah 51:64And thou shalt say, Thus shall Babylon sink, and shall not rise from the evil that I will bring upon her: and they shall be weary. Thus far are the words of Jeremiah.Luke 24:51And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.
Historical Context
This editorial note indicates Psalms were compiled over time from various sources. David's psalms formed a core collection, later supplemented with psalms from other authors and periods.
Questions for Reflection
- How do David's prayers—honest, raw, faithful—model authentic communication with God?
- What can you learn from how David's personal prayers became universal Scripture for all believers?
- In what ways should your prayers reflect David's combination of desperation, faith, and worship?
Analysis & Commentary
The note 'The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended' marks the conclusion of a major psalm collection. Yet Psalms attributed to David appear later (e.g., 86, 103), suggesting this marks an earlier compilation's end. The personal note reminds us these weren't abstract theological statements but prayers from a real man—shepherd, warrior, king, sinner, and saint. David's prayers became Scripture, modeling honest, passionate communication with God for all generations.