King James Version

What Does Psalms 72:20 Mean?

Psalms 72:20 in the King James Version says “The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 72 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.”

Psalms 72:20 · KJV

Context

18

Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things.

19

And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen.

20

The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.

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Commentary

KJV Study 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.

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Historical & Cultural 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do David's prayers—honest, raw, faithful—model authentic communication with God?
  2. What can you learn from how David's personal prayers became universal Scripture for all believers?
  3. In what ways should your prayers reflect David's combination of desperation, faith, and worship?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
כָּלּ֥וּ1 of 5

“are ended”

H3615

to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitive (to complete, prepare, consume)

תְפִלּ֑וֹת2 of 5

“The prayers”

H8605

intercession, supplication; by implication, a hymn

דָּ֝וִ֗ד3 of 5

“of David”

H1732

david, the youngest son of jesse

בֶּן4 of 5

“the son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

יִשָֽׁי׃5 of 5

“of Jesse”

H3448

jishai, david's father

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 72:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 72:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Samuel 23:1Luke 24:51Job 31:40Jeremiah 51:64

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