Psalms 72:13

He shall spare the poor and needy, and shall save the souls of the needy.

He shall spare {H2347}{H8799)} the poor {H1800} and needy {H34}, and shall save {H3467}{H8686)} the souls {H5315} of the needy {H34}.

He will have pity on the poor and needy; and the lives of the needy he will save.

He will take pity on the poor and needy and save the lives of the oppressed.

He will have pity on the poor and needy, And the souls of the needy he will save.

Commentary on Psalms 72:13

Psalms 72:13, a powerful verse from a royal psalm often associated with King Solomon, beautifully describes the character and actions of an ideal, righteous ruler. This specific verse emphasizes the king's profound compassion and commitment to the most vulnerable members of society.

Context

Psalm 72 is primarily a prayer for or about the king, outlining the qualities of a just and benevolent reign. While it addresses an earthly monarch, its grand scope, aspirations for eternal rule, universal dominion, and unwavering justice transcend human capabilities, pointing ultimately to the future Messianic King. The psalm paints a prophetic picture of Christ's righteous kingdom, where peace and justice prevail, especially for the marginalized.

Key Themes

  • Compassion and Mercy: The phrase "He shall spare the poor and needy" highlights the king's active and deliberate benevolence. It signifies a profound empathy that leads to protection and grace for those who are most vulnerable, reflecting a core attribute of God's character.
  • Justice for the Oppressed: This verse underscores a kingdom where the weak and disadvantaged are not overlooked or exploited, but rather defended and upheld. The ideal ruler actively intervenes to ensure their well-being and security.
  • Holistic Salvation: "Save the souls of the needy" implies a comprehensive deliverance. The Hebrew word for "soul" (nephesh) often refers to the entire person—their life, being, and well-being. Thus, the saving act extends beyond mere physical rescue to profound restoration and spiritual flourishing. This aligns with the mission of the ultimate King, Jesus Christ, who came to proclaim good news to the poor and set the captives free.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "poor" (dal) refers to those who are weak, powerless, or of low status. "Needy" (evyon) specifically denotes the materially destitute and dependent. The verb "spare" (chus) conveys the idea of looking with pity, having compassion, or showing mercy, indicating a heartfelt response. "Save" (yasha) is a broad term meaning to deliver, rescue, or bring salvation, often implying victory and comprehensive well-being.

Practical Application

Psalms 72:13 offers profound insights for believers today:

  • Emulate Compassion: As followers of Christ, we are called to embody the same compassion and mercy towards the poor and needy that our King demonstrates. This means actively seeking opportunities to serve and support those in distress, remembering Jesus' words about ministering to "the least of these."
  • Advocate for Justice: The verse inspires us to stand for justice and righteousness in society, especially on behalf of the marginalized and oppressed.
  • Trust in God's Reign: Ultimately, this psalm points to the perfect, eternal reign of Jesus Christ, who truly "spares the poor and needy" and offers complete salvation—both spiritual and physical—to all who trust in Him. It provides hope for a future where true justice, peace, and compassionate care for all will fully prevail.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ezekiel 34:16

    I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up [that which was] broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.

  • Matthew 5:3

    Blessed [are] the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

  • Psalms 109:31

    For he shall stand at the right hand of the poor, to save [him] from those that condemn his soul.

  • Job 5:15

    But he saveth the poor from the sword, from their mouth, and from the hand of the mighty.

  • Job 5:16

    So the poor hath hope, and iniquity stoppeth her mouth.

  • Matthew 18:10

    Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.

  • James 2:5

    Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

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