Psalms 45:12

KJV

And the daughter of Tyre [shall be there] with a gift; [even] the rich among the people shall intreat thy favour.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the daughter {H1323} of Tyre {H6865} shall be there with a gift {H4503}; even the rich {H6223} among the people {H5971} shall intreat {H2470}{H8762)} thy favour {H6440}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then the daughter of Tzor, the richest of peoples, will court your favor with gifts.

Berean Standard Bible

The Daughter of Tyre will come with a gift; men of wealth will seek your favor.

American Standard Version

And the daughter of Tyre shall be there with a gift; The rich among the people shall entreat thy favor.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 45:12, embedded within a royal wedding psalm, powerfully illustrates the universal homage and tribute rendered to a glorious king. It vividly portrays the "daughter of Tyre," symbolizing powerful foreign entities, and the wealthy elite from all peoples, humbly seeking the king's favor and presenting gifts. This verse not only celebrates the widespread influence of an earthly monarch but also prophetically anticipates the ultimate, undisputed reign of a greater King, whose sovereignty will be acknowledged and sought by all nations and peoples.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 45 is uniquely designated as a "Maskil" (an instructive or contemplative psalm) and "A Song of Loves," primarily functioning as a royal wedding hymn. While it celebrates the marriage of an Israelite king (often associated with Solomon) to a foreign princess, its elevated language imbues it with profound messianic overtones, elevating the king to a divine-like status. The psalm unfolds in distinct movements: an ode to the king's splendor and righteousness in [Psalms 45:1-9](/psalms/45-1-9 "Psalms 45:1-9 - The King's Majesty and Righteousness"), an address to the queen regarding her new allegiance in [Psalms 45:10-11](/psalms/45-10-11 "Psalms 45:10-11 - The Queen's New Allegiance"), and a depiction of universal homage and the king's enduring legacy in [Psalms 45:12-17](/psalms/45-12-17 "Psalms 45:12-17 - Universal Homage and Enduring Legacy"). Verse 12 is strategically positioned within the section highlighting the king's global recognition, serving as a concrete example of the widespread honor and submission he receives from both foreign powers and the wealthy elite.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Tyre was a formidable and immensely wealthy Phoenician city-state, renowned for its extensive maritime trade, skilled artisans, and vast commercial network across the Mediterranean. Located on the coast, it was a major economic and political force in the ancient Near East, often depicted as proud and self-sufficient. The mention of the "daughter of Tyre" (a common Hebrew idiom for the inhabitants or personified city) coming "with a gift" signifies more than a friendly exchange; it represents an act of tribute and submission from a powerful foreign entity. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice where lesser kings or city-states would present gifts to a dominant monarch to "intreat his favour," seeking protection, alliance, or trade benefits. The "rich among the people" would include both the wealthy elite within Israel and influential figures from other nations, further underscoring the king's universal appeal and authority. Historically, King Solomon, a likely candidate for the earthly king in this psalm, had significant dealings and alliances with Tyre, including economic partnerships and the use of Tyrian craftsmen for the temple's construction, as detailed in [1 Kings 5](/1_kings/5 "1 Kings 5 - Solomon and Hiram of Tyre").
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Psalm 45 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphasizes **Royal Sovereignty and Authority**, showcasing the king's extensive dominion that transcends national borders and social strata. Secondly, it highlights **Universal Homage and Submission**, illustrating that even powerful and independent entities will recognize and defer to the king's preeminence, often accompanied by material tribute, echoing prophecies like those found in [Isaiah 60:5-7](/isaiah/60-5-7 "Isaiah 60:5-7 - Nations bringing wealth to Zion"). Thirdly, the theme of **Divine Favor and Blessing** is evident, as those who "intreat thy favour" seek the king's benevolent regard, implying that his righteous rule brings prosperity and peace to those aligned with him. Finally, and most profoundly, this verse carries strong **Messianic Anticipation**. The extraordinary, universal homage described here points beyond any earthly monarch to the future reign of the Messiah, whose kingdom will truly encompass all nations, as majestically prophesied in [Psalm 72:10-11](/psalms/72-10-11 "Psalm 72:10-11 - Kings bringing tribute to the Messiah").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **daughter (Hebrew, _bath_ H1323):** From the root meaning "to build" (as feminine of "son"), this term is used in a wide sense for relationship, literally and figuratively. Here, "the daughter of Tyre" is a common Hebrew idiom for the inhabitants or personified city of Tyre. It suggests a familial or intimate connection, yet in this context, it emphasizes Tyre's identity as a distinct entity, now coming in a posture of homage.
* **gift (Hebrew, _minchâh_ H4503):** This word, from an unused root meaning "to apportion" or "bestow," refers to a donation, tribute, or specifically a sacrificial offering (often bloodless and voluntary). In this verse, it signifies a tribute presented as an act of submission, respect, and a desire to gain favor from the king. It is a material expression of recognition of the king's superior status and authority.
* **intreat (Hebrew, _châlâh_ H2470):** A primitive root meaning "to be rubbed or worn," and figuratively "to be weak, sick, afflicted." However, in its causative or reflexive forms (as used here, Hithpael), it means "to stroke (in flattering)," "to entreat," "to beseech," or "to make supplication." It conveys a posture of humility, seeking grace or a beneficial relationship, and implies a recognition of the king's power to grant or withhold favor.
* **favour (Hebrew, _pânîym_ H6440):** This is a plural noun (though always used as singular) meaning "face." It is used in a vast variety of literal and figurative applications, often with prepositional prefixes to denote location ("before," "against"), or abstract concepts like "presence," "countenance," "anger," or "favour." To "intreat thy favour" literally means to "seek your face" or "seek your presence," implying a desire for the king's benevolent regard, approval, and blessing. It signifies a longing for intimate access and a positive response from the monarch.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the daughter of Tyre [shall be there] with a gift":** This clause introduces a powerful foreign entity, the city of Tyre, personified as a "daughter." Her presence "with a gift" is not incidental but a deliberate act of homage. The gift signifies tribute, submission, and a recognition of the king's preeminence. It suggests that even the most prominent and independent nations will be drawn to the king's splendor and seek his benevolent regard, acknowledging his superior authority and blessing.
* **"[even] the rich among the people shall intreat thy favour":** This clause expands the scope of homage beyond a specific foreign nation to include the wealthy and influential individuals from all peoples, whether within the king's own realm or from other nations. "The rich among the people" represents those with status, power, and resources. Their act of "intreating thy favour" emphasizes that true blessing, security, and prosperity are found not in their own wealth or influence, but in aligning themselves with and seeking the grace of the king. It highlights the universal appeal and magnetic draw of the king's righteous and prosperous reign, attracting even those who seemingly have no need.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of universal homage. **Personification** is evident in "the daughter of Tyre," giving the city human agency and emphasizing its deliberate act of homage, thereby making the abstract concept of a city-state's submission more tangible. This also functions as **Synecdoche**, where Tyre, a prominent and wealthy city, stands in for all foreign nations and their riches, representing the broader category of powerful, independent entities. The depiction of both Tyre and "the rich among the people" seeking the king's favor uses **Hyperbole** to underscore the king's extraordinary and far-reaching influence, suggesting a universal recognition that transcends geographical and social boundaries, extending beyond what any earthly king could fully achieve. Furthermore, the "gift" itself serves as **Symbolism**, representing not just material tribute but also submission, honor, and a desire for a beneficial relationship with the king. The overall effect is to magnify the king's glory and the breadth of his dominion, pointing to a reign of unparalleled attraction and authority.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse, while initially celebrating an earthly king, carries profound theological weight, pointing to the universal sovereignty of God and the ultimate reign of His Anointed One. It foreshadows a time when all earthly powers and wealth will bow before the true King, acknowledging His supreme authority and seeking His divine favor. The drawing of the nations, even the proud and wealthy, into the orbit of the king's blessing is a recurring theme in Old Testament prophecy, illustrating God's plan to extend His kingdom beyond Israel's borders. It speaks to the attractive power of a righteous and blessed rule, where true prosperity and peace are found in submission to God's chosen representative. This anticipates the New Covenant reality where people from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation will worship the Lamb, bringing their glory into His eternal kingdom.

* [Isaiah 60:6](/isaiah/60-6 "Isaiah 60:6 - Nations bringing gifts to Jerusalem")
* [Psalm 72:10-11](/psalms/72-10-11 "Psalm 72:10-11 - Kings of Tarshish and the isles shall bring presents")
* [Zechariah 14:16](/zechariah/14-16 "Zechariah 14:16 - All nations coming to worship the King, the Lord of hosts")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 45:12 invites believers to contemplate the ultimate authority and splendor of Christ's kingdom, which is destined to be acknowledged by all. Just as the wealthy and powerful of old sought the favor of an earthly king, we are called to prioritize seeking the favor of God above all worldly pursuits. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that all earthly power, wealth, and influence are transient, and true, lasting blessing comes from aligning ourselves with the eternal King. It encourages us to live with an eschatological hope, anticipating the day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess Jesus as Lord, and to participate actively in the Great Commission, bringing the message of this glorious King to all nations, so that many may seek His favor now and find eternal life. Our lives should reflect a deep longing for His reign and a willingness to offer our own "gifts" – our lives, talents, and resources – in humble service to Him, recognizing that our greatest treasure is found in His presence and approval.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I, like the "daughter of Tyre" or "the rich among the people," need to humble myself and seek God's favor over worldly security or status?**
* **How does the anticipation of Christ's universal reign in this verse motivate my participation in sharing the Gospel with others?**
* **What "gifts" (talents, resources, time) am I currently offering to the King, and how can I more fully dedicate them to His service?**
* **How does understanding the ultimate authority of Christ influence my perspective on current global events and earthly powers?**

### FAQ
**Why is Tyre specifically mentioned in this psalm?**

Answer:Tyre's specific mention is highly significant due to its historical and symbolic weight. As a preeminent Phoenician city-state, Tyre was renowned for its immense wealth, powerful maritime trade, and perceived self-sufficiency. Its inclusion in the psalm underscores the king's extraordinary influence, implying that even a city known for its independence and worldly power would willingly offer tribute and seek his favor. It serves as a representative example of the most formidable and prosperous nations, symbolizing the universal scope of the king's dominion, which extends even to those outside the immediate covenant community. This foreshadows the ultimate drawing of all nations to the Messiah, as seen in prophecies like [Isaiah 60:5-7](/isaiah/60-5-7 "Isaiah 60:5-7 - Nations bringing wealth to Zion") and the vision of the New Jerusalem where the kings of the earth bring their glory into it ([Revelation 21:24](/revelation/21-24 "Revelation 21:24 - Nations walking in the light of the New Jerusalem")).

**How does this verse relate to the Great Commission?**

Answer:Psalms 45:12 provides a powerful prophetic backdrop for the Great Commission. By depicting foreign nations and the wealthy elite seeking the king's favor, it anticipates a future reality where the sovereignty of the true King will be universally acknowledged. This vision of global homage fuels the urgency and hope of the Great Commission, as commanded by Jesus in [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission"). Believers are called to "go therefore and make disciples of all nations," knowing that the ultimate destiny of humanity is to bow before Christ. The verse reinforces the conviction that God's plan includes people from every tribe, tongue, and nation, and that the message of salvation is meant for all, so that they too may "intreat His favor" and enter into His glorious kingdom. It underscores the global scope of God's redemptive plan and the universal call to worship the King.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 45:12 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, the true King of kings and Lord of lords. While the psalm initially describes an earthly monarch, its elevated language and universal scope transcend any mere human reign, pointing directly to the Messiah. Jesus, the Son of David, is the righteous King whose throne is forever and ever, as declared in [Hebrews 1:8](/hebrews/1-8 "Hebrews 1:8 - The Son's Eternal Throne"). The "daughter of Tyre" and "the rich among the people" coming with gifts and seeking favor perfectly prefigure the day when "every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). Just as the earthly king's reign drew homage, Christ's perfect righteousness, sacrificial love, and victorious resurrection draw all humanity to Himself. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), and it is His favor, His grace, that all people, regardless of their earthly status or wealth, must seek for salvation and eternal life. The vision of nations bringing their glory and honor into the New Jerusalem ([Revelation 21:24](/revelation/21-24 "Revelation 21:24 - Nations bringing their glory to New Jerusalem")) is the complete realization of this psalm's prophetic glimpse into the universal, undisputed reign of Christ, where all creation acknowledges His supreme dominion.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 22:29

All [they that be] fat upon earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow before him: and none can keep alive his own soul.

Isaiah 49:23

And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers: they shall bow down to thee with [their] face toward the earth, and lick up the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I [am] the LORD: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me.

Isaiah 60:3

And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.

Psalms 72:10

The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.

Isaiah 60:10

And the sons of strangers shall build up thy walls, and their kings shall minister unto thee: for in my wrath I smote thee, but in my favour have I had mercy on thee.

Isaiah 60:11

Therefore thy gates shall be open continually; they shall not be shut day nor night; that [men] may bring unto thee the forces of the Gentiles, and [that] their kings [may be] brought.

Psalms 68:29

Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee.