Psalms 72:7
In his days may the righteous flourish, and peace abound, till the moon be no more!
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The text doesn't just say the righteous will be righteous, but that "righteousness" itself will "flourish," like a plant springing forth. This means that not only individual believers thrive, but the very principle of right living and justice will become abundant and widespread.
This psalm is a royal prayer for King Solomon, asking for God's blessing on his reign. It envisions an ideal king whose rule will bring justice and peace, extending far beyond the borders of Israel. The prayer anticipates a golden age where righteousness flourishes and conflict ceases, a hope that resonates with David's own legacy and points beyond to an ultimate fulfillment.
What does it mean for the 'righteous' to 'flourish'? This isn't just about personal success, but something deeper.
The verse uses a vivid image of growth, like plants sprouting after rain. It's talking about the flourishing of those who live in right relationship with God.
A Kingdom of Fruitfulness
When a just king reigns, the people who follow God's ways don't just survive; they thrive. Their lives become fruitful, demonstrating God's blessing. This flourishing isn't a fleeting moment but a consistent state under righteous leadership.
More Than Just 'Good People'
Some scholars note that the original wording can also mean 'righteousness itself' flourishes. This suggests that it's God's own standard of right living that will be established and celebrated in this kingdom.
The promise of 'peace' here goes beyond a temporary truce. It speaks of a peace that is vast and unending.
The phrase 'till the moon be no more' is a poetic way of saying 'forever' or 'as long as time exists.' It uses a visible, constant celestial body as a metaphor for enduring existence.
A Peace Beyond Human Making
This isn't the peace of a political treaty that can be broken. It's a profound, deep peace that flows from God's presence and reign. It encompasses harmony between people, with creation, and most importantly, with God Himself.
The Ultimate Fulfillment in Christ
While this Psalm speaks of earthly kings like Solomon, its ultimate fulfillment points to Jesus Christ. His reign brings a spiritual peace that reconciles us to God and a future promise of a new heavens and new earth where peace will reign eternally.
Understand the original words
tsaddiyq · Hebrew Adjective
Refers to the state of being upright, virtuous, or justified in the eyes of God, often characterized by moral integrity and adherence to God's law. In a messianic context, it describes those who live under the blessing of the righteous King.
shalom · Hebrew Noun
A state of wholeness, harmony, welfare, and prosperity, often resulting from God's blessing and rule. It encompasses not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of divine well-being and reconciliation.
While this psalm's language about flourishing righteousness and abundant peace likely reflects the idealized memory or hopes surrounding King Solomon's reign, its ultimate fulfillment is understood to be in the Messianic age brought by Christ.
c. 970 BC— this verse
Solomon's Accession to the Throne
David's son Solomon becomes king of Israel, ushering in an era associated with wisdom, prosperity, and relative peace. This period is often seen as the historical backdrop for the psalm.
During Solomon's Reign
Israel's Golden Age
Solomon's reign is characterized by extensive building projects, international trade, and a period of unprecedented peace and stability for the united kingdom.
c. 931 BC
Division of the Kingdom
Following Solomon's death, the kingdom splits into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah, marking the end of the unified era and its associated peace.
Later Prophets
Messianic Prophecies
Centuries later, prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah expand on the themes of a future righteous king and a lasting kingdom of peace, pointing beyond Solomon to a greater fulfillment.
This passage describes the Messianic age with vivid imagery of peace and harmony, paralleling the flourishing of the righteous and enduring peace mentioned in Psalms 72:7.
Colossians 1:19-20It explains how Christ's work reconciles all things, both in heaven and on earth, bringing about the 'abundance of peace' that surpasses earthly understanding.
Jeremiah 33:15-16This prophecy speaks of a future 'righteous branch' who will execute justice and righteousness, leading to Judah being saved and dwelling securely, echoing the flourishing of the righteous and peace.
Matthew 5:9Jesus calls his followers 'sons of God' and 'peacemakers,' highlighting the spiritual flourishing and peace that comes from living according to His kingdom's principles.
jfbPsalms 72:7: "In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth."
7, and, carrying out the figure, the results are described in an abundant production.the righteous—literally, "righteousness."flourish—literally, "sprout," or, "spring forth."
ellicottPsalms 72:7: "In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth."
(7) Flourish — i.e., spring up and grow like vegetation after rain. Endureth.—See margin, and comp. Job 14:12, “till the heavens be no more.”
The text doesn't just say the righteous will be righteous, but that "righteousness" itself will "flourish," like a plant springing forth. This means that not only individual believers thrive, but the very principle of right living and justice will become abundant and widespread.
This psalm is a royal prayer for King Solomon, asking for God's blessing on his reign. It envisions an ideal king whose rule will bring justice and peace, extending far beyond the borders of Israel. The prayer anticipates a golden age where righteousness flourishes and conflict ceases, a hope that resonates with David's own legacy and points beyond to an ultimate fulfillment.
This psalm is a royal prayer for King Solomon, asking for God's blessing on his reign. It envisions an ideal king whose rule will bring justice and peace, extending far beyond the borders of Israel. The prayer anticipates a golden age where righteousness flourishes and conflict ceases, a hope that resonates with David's own legacy and points beyond to an ultimate fulfillment.
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c. 4 BC - AD 30/33
Jesus' Earthly Ministry
The life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus are understood by Christians as the ultimate fulfillment of the promises of a righteous king who brings enduring peace.
"In his days may the righteous flourish, and peace abound, till the moon be no more!" — The text doesn't just say the righteous will be righteous, but that "righteousness" itself will "flourish," like a plant springing forth. This means that not only individual believers thrive, but t…
