King James Version
What Does Psalms 72:8 Mean?
“He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.”
Context
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
8
He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.
9
They that dwell in the wilderness shall bow before him; and his enemies shall lick the dust.
10
The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **He shall have. . . .**—The original is more poetical, recalling the root idea of the verb, “may he tread down (the nations) from sea to sea.”
That the river in the next clause is the Euphrates there can be no question, but are we, therefore, to see precise geographical limits in the expression “from sea to sea” (from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea), as in Exodus 23:31, or is it merely poetical for a wide extent of empire? The vague and general expression, “ends of the earth,” which takes the place of the definite “desert,” in the passage of Exodus, makes in favour of the latter view. So, too, do the hyperbolic expressions in Psalm 72:5; Psalm 72:11; Psalm 72:17. On the other hand, Psalm 72:10 mentions particular places. The same phrase in Zechariah 9:10 describes the Messianic kingdom, and is certainly poetical, but whether that or this passage is the original is doubtful.
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 72:8 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 72:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge