King James Version
What Does Psalms 72:5 Mean?
“They shall fear thee as long as the sun and moon endure, throughout all generations.”
Context
3
The mountains shall bring peace to the people, and the little hills, by righteousness.
4
He shall judge the poor of the people, he shall save the children of the needy, and shall break in pieces the oppressor.
5
They shall fear thee as long as the sun and moon endure, throughout all generations.
6
He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers that water the earth.
7
In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth. so long: Heb. till there be no moon
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(5) **They shall . . .**—Literally, *may they fear Thee *(coevally) *with the sun, and in the face of the moon, generation of generation. *For the preposition, “coevally with,” see Dan. 3:33; (Hebrew) and comp. the Latin use of *cum*—
“Cum sole et luna semper Aratus erit.”
OVID: *Amor., *xv. 16.
The phrase “in the presence of the moon” (see the same expression, Psalm 72:17, and compare Job 8:16), means, not by the moonlight, but as long as the moon shines. (Comp. Psalm 72:7.) On the other hand, our phrase “under the moon” refers to space. With this passage Psalm 89:36-37, alone in Hebrew poetry exactly compares, or may perhaps have been borrowed from here.
Whether God or the king is the object of the “fear*” *spoken of in this verse is a question that must remain unanswered.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 72:5 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 72:5
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge