Psalms 72:17

"Abundance of grain shall be throughout the land. Its fruit sways like Lebanon. Let it flourish, thriving like the grass of the field."

Key Reflection

In Psalms 72:17, the psalmist paints a vivid picture of abundant prosperity under the rule of a righteous king. The imagery of grain fields swaying like Lebanon's trees and flourishing like grass would have resonated deeply with the original audience, evoking scenes of fertile land, rich harvests, and economic abundance that symbolized God’s blessings and the king’s wise governance. This verse reflects the hopes and aspirations for a ruler who brings prosperity, much as nature thrives under favorable conditions.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

His name shall endure for ever -Margin, as in Hebrew, “Shall be forever;” that is, “He” shall endure forever. His name shall be continued as long as the sun -As long as that continues to shine - an expression designed to express perpetuity. See the notes atPsalms 72:5. The margin here is, “shall be as a son to continue his father’s name forever.” The Hebrew word -נוןnûn- means “to sprout, to put forth;” and hence, to “flourish.” The idea is that of a tree which continues always to sprout, or put forth leaves, branches, blossoms; or, which never dies. And men shall be blessed in him -SeeGenesis 12:3;Genesis 22:18.

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