Psalm 72:4
May he vindicate the afflicted among the people; may he save the children of the needy and crush the oppressor.
May he vindicate
The Hebrew root for "vindicate" is "שָׁפַט" (shaphat), which means to judge, govern, or bring justice. In the context of this Psalm, it reflects a plea for righteous judgment. The psalmist is asking for a king who will act as God's representative on earth, ensuring that justice is served. This reflects the biblical principle that true leadership is marked by a commitment to justice and righteousness, echoing the divine character of God as the ultimate judge.

the afflicted among the people
The term "afflicted" comes from the Hebrew "עָנִי" (ani), which refers to those who are humble, poor, or oppressed. In ancient Israel, the afflicted were often marginalized and lacked the means to defend themselves. The psalmist's prayer is for a ruler who will prioritize the needs of these individuals, reflecting God's heart for the downtrodden and His call for His people to care for the least among them.

may he save
The word "save" is derived from the Hebrew "יָשַׁע" (yasha), meaning to deliver or rescue. This is a call for divine intervention through the king, who acts as God's agent of salvation. It underscores the biblical theme of God as a deliverer, who hears the cries of His people and acts to bring them out of distress. This salvation is not just spiritual but also practical, involving the restoration of dignity and provision for physical needs.

the children of the needy
"Children of the needy" highlights the vulnerable position of those who are dependent on others for survival. In biblical times, children were particularly at risk if their parents were poor or oppressed. The psalmist's inclusion of children emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's justice, which extends to all generations and ensures that even the most vulnerable are protected and provided for.

and crush the oppressor
The phrase "crush the oppressor" uses the Hebrew "דָּכָא" (daka), meaning to break or crush. This is a strong call for the destruction of those who exploit and harm others. The oppressor represents forces of evil and injustice that stand against God's righteous order. The psalmist's prayer is for a decisive end to such tyranny, reflecting the biblical hope for a world where God's peace and justice reign supreme.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Afflicted
Refers to those who are suffering or oppressed, often marginalized in society. In the context of ancient Israel, this could include the poor, widows, orphans, and foreigners.

2. The Needy
Those who lack basic necessities and require assistance. This group often overlaps with the afflicted and represents a significant concern in biblical justice.

3. The Oppressor
Individuals or systems that exploit or harm others, often for personal gain or power. In biblical times, this could include corrupt leaders or foreign invaders.

4. The King (Implied)
While not directly mentioned in this verse, the psalm is a royal psalm, traditionally attributed to Solomon, and speaks of the ideal king who rules with justice and righteousness.

5. The People
The broader community or nation that the king is responsible for leading and protecting, emphasizing the communal aspect of justice.
Teaching Points
Justice and Righteousness
The verse highlights the importance of justice and righteousness as central to godly leadership. Believers are called to advocate for these values in their communities.

Compassion for the Needy
Christians are encouraged to actively support and care for those in need, reflecting God's heart for the marginalized.

Opposition to Oppression
The call to "crush the oppressor" emphasizes the need to stand against injustice and exploitation, whether in personal relationships or societal structures.

Role of Leadership
Godly leadership involves protecting and uplifting the vulnerable, a model for both spiritual and secular leaders.

Christ as the Fulfillment
Jesus embodies the perfect fulfillment of this kingly role, offering salvation and justice to all who are oppressed.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Psalm 72:4 challenge our understanding of justice in today's society?

2. In what ways can we, as individuals or a church community, support the afflicted and needy in our local context?

3. What are some modern examples of oppression, and how can Christians respond to these injustices?

4. How does the role of the king in Psalm 72 point to the ultimate kingship of Christ?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced injustice. How can Psalm 72:4 inspire you to act differently in the future?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Isaiah 11:4
This verse speaks of the Messiah judging the poor with righteousness and deciding with equity for the meek of the earth, echoing the themes of justice and protection for the afflicted.

Proverbs 31:8-9
These verses encourage speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves and defending the rights of the poor and needy, aligning with the call for justice in Psalm 72:4.

Luke 4:18-19
Jesus' declaration of His mission to bring good news to the poor and freedom for the oppressed reflects the fulfillment of the kingly role described in Psalm 72.
God's Care for the PoorJ. Guthrie, D. D.Psalm 72:4
On the Education of the Children of the PoorA. Brunton, D. D.Psalm 72:4
The Effect of the Anger of a Perfectly Righteous KingC. Short Psalm 72:1-7
Jesus Both King and King's SonGeorge Phillips.Psalm 72:1-20
Messiah's ReignG. F. Pentecost, D. D.Psalm 72:1-20
The Glory of Christ's KingdomW. Forsyth Psalm 72:1-20
The World-Wanted KingHomilistPsalm 72:1-20
People
David, Jesse, Psalmist, Seba, Solomon, Tarshish
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Afflicted, Break, Bruiseth, Cause, Crush, Crushed, Defend, Deliverance, Giveth, Judge, Judgeth, Justice, Needy, Oppressor, Pieces, Poor, Salvation, Save, Sons, Vindicate, Violent
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Psalm 72:4

     5293   defence, human
     5480   protection
     5825   cruelty, God's attitude
     8792   oppression, God's attitude

Psalm 72:1-4

     2072   Christ, righteousness
     5360   justice, God
     5504   rights

Psalm 72:1-19

     5857   fame

Psalm 72:2-4

     2565   Christ, second coming

Library
The Eternal Name
It is pleasant, then, to find that there is one thing which is to last for ever. Concerning that one thing we hope to speak to-night, if God will enable me to preach, and you to hear. "His name shall endure for ever." First, the religion sanctified by his name shall endure for ever; secondly, the honor of his name shall endure for ever; and thirdly, the saving, comforting power of his name shall endure for ever. I. First, the religion of the name of Jesus is to endure for ever. When impostors forged
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 1: 1855

The Poor Man's Friend
Turning to our text without further preface, we shall note in it the special objects of great grace. "He shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper;" then, the special blessings which are allotted to them. Here it is said that he shall deliver them, but all through the psalms there are scattered promises full of instruction and consolation all meant for them. And, lastly, the special season which God has appointed for the dispensing of these favors. "He shall
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 18: 1872

David's Dying Prayer
In one sense this prayer is still unnecessary, for in a certain sense the whole earth is filled with God's glory. "All thy works praise thee, O God," is as true now as it was in paradise. The stars still sing their Maker's praise; no sin hath stopped their voice, no discord hath made a jarring note among the harmonies of the spheres. The earth itself still praiseth its Maker, the exhalations, as they arise with morn, are still a pure offfering, acceptable to their Maker. The lowing of the cattle,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 3: 1857

Jesus --"All Blessing and all Blest"
THERE are many famous names in human history; but many of them are connected with deeds which have brought no blessing upon mankind. To bless, and to be blessed, is the noblest sort of fame; and yet how few have thought it worth the seeking! Full many a name in the roll of fame has been written there with a finger dipped in blood. It would seem as if men loved those most who have killed the most of them. They call those greatest who have been the greatest cutthroats. They make their greatest illuminations
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 37: 1891

Abandonment a Pledge of Predestination.
The state of abandonment contains in itself pure faith, hope, and charity. The state of abandonment is a certain mixture of faith, hope, and charity in one single act, which unites the soul to God and to His action. United, these three virtues together form but one in a single act, the raising of the heart to God, and abandonment to His action. But how can this divine mingling, this spiritual oneness be explained? How can a name be found to convey an idea of its nature, and to make the unity of this
Jean-Pierre de Caussade—Abandonment to Divine Providence

The Song of Solomon.
An important link in the chain of the Messianic hopes is formed by the Song of Solomon. It is intimately associated with Ps. lxxii., which was written by Solomon, and represents the Messiah as the Prince of Peace, imperfectly prefigured by Solomon as His type. As in this Psalm, so also in the Song of Solomon, the coming of the Messiah forms the subject throughout, and He is introduced there under the name of Solomon, the Peaceful One. His coming shall be preceded by severe afflictions, represented
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament

Prayer and Missions
"One day, about this time, I heard an unusual bleating amongst my few remaining goats, as if they were being killed or tortured. I rushed to the goat-house and found myself instantly surrounded by a band of armed men. The snare had caught me, their weapons were raised, and I expected the next moment to die. But God moved me to talk to them firmly and kindly; I warned them of their sin and its punishment; I showed them that only my love and pity led me to remain there seeking their good, and that
Edward M. Bounds—The Essentials of Prayer

Translators' Preface.
THE work, of which an English version is presented in this volume, appeared originally in 1837. It has already passed through four editions, from the last of which [2] this translation has been made. It is well known that Dr. NEANDER has been engaged for many years in writing a "General History of the Christian Religion and Church," and that he has published separately an account of the "Planting and Training of the Early Christian Church by the Apostles." He would doubtless have felt himself constrained,
Augustus Neander—The Life of Jesus Christ in Its Historical Connexion

All Nations Shall Serve Him. --Ps. Lxxii. 11
All nations shall serve Him.--Ps. lxxii. 11. Fall down ye nations, and adore Jehovah on His mercy-seat, Like prostrate seas on every shore, That cast their billows at your feet. Let hallelujahs to the skies, With ocean's everlasting sound, (The voice of many waters) rise, Day without night, as time goes round. Come from the east,--with gifts, ye kings, Gold, frankincense, and myrrh; Where'er the morning spreads her wings, Let man to God his vows prefer. Come from the west,--the bond, the free,
James Montgomery—Sacred Poems and Hymns

The Reign of Christ on Earth. --Ps. Lxxii.
The Reign of Christ on Earth.--Ps. lxxii. Hail to the Lord's Anointed! Great David's greater Son; Hail in the time appointed, His reign on earth begun! He comes to break oppression, To set the captive free; To take away transgression, And rule in equity. He comes with succour speedy, To those who suffer wrong; To help the poor and needy, And bid the weak be strong; To give them songs for sighing, Their darkness turn to light; Whose souls, condemn'd and dying, Were precious in His sight. By such
James Montgomery—Sacred Poems and Hymns

Jesus the Bread of Life.
JOHN vi. 1-59. In this chapter John follows the same method as in the last. He first relates the sign, and then gives our Lord's interpretation of it. As to the Samaritan woman, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so now to the Galileans, Jesus manifests Himself as sent to communicate to man life eternal. The sign by means of which He now manifests Himself is, however, so new that many fresh aspects of His own person and work are disclosed.[21] The occasion for the miracle arose, as usual, quite
Marcus Dods—The Expositor's Bible: The Gospel of St. John, Vol. I

The Millennium in Relation to Sin.
In spite of the fact that Satan will have been removed from the earth, and that Christ reigns in person over it, yet conditions here will not be perfect even in the Millennium. Unregenerate human nature will remain unchanged. Sin will still be present, though much of its outward manifestation will be restrained. Discontent and wickedness will not be eradicated from the hearts of men, but will be kept beneath the surface by means of the Iron Rod. Multitudes will yield to Christ nothing but a "feigned
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

The Millennium in Relation to the World.
The Millennium will be the time, when, instead of Satan being the world's "Prince," the Christ of God shall be its King. The form of His government will be theocratic not democratic--"And the Lord shall be King over all the earth" (Zech. 14:9). The scope or range of His government will be world-wide. All nations will be subject to His rule, and the uttermost parts of the earth shall be possessed by Him. "He shall have dominion from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth. They that
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

Prayer for and with Each Other.
"Confess your faults one to another and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."--James v. 16. Let our last article touch once more the key of love wherein the article preceding that of prayer was set. To speak of the Spirit's work in our prayers, omitting the intercession of the saints, betrays a lack of understanding concerning the Spirit of all grace. Prayer for others is quite different from prayer for ourselves. The latter
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

Epistle cxxi. To Leander, Bishop of Hispalis (Seville).
To Leander, Bishop of Hispalis (Seville). Gregory to Leander, Bishop of Spain. I have the epistle of thy Holiness, written with the pen of charity alone. For what the tongue transferred to the paper had got its tincture from the heart. Good and wise men were present when it was read, and at once their bowels were stirred with emotion. Everyone began to seize thee in his heart with the hand of love, for that in that epistle the sweetness of thy disposition was not to be heard, but seen. All severally
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Question Lxxxii of Devotion
I. Is Devotion a Special Kind of Act? Cardinal Cajetan, On the Meaning of the Term "Devotion" S. Augustine, Confessions, XIII. viii. 2 II. Is Devotion an Act of the Virtue of Religion? III. Is Contemplation, that is Meditation, the Cause of Devotion? Cardinal Cajetan, On the Causes of Devotion " " On the Devotion of Women IV. Is Joy an Effect of Devotion? Cardinal Cajetan, On Melancholy S. Augustine, Confessions, II. x. I Is Devotion a Special Kind of Act? It is by our acts that we merit. But
St. Thomas Aquinas—On Prayer and The Contemplative Life

The Great Crisis in Popular Feeling - the Last Discourses in the Synagogue of Capernaum - Christ the Bread of Life - Will Ye Also Go
THE narrative now returns to those who, on the previous evening, had, after the miraculous meal, been sent away' to their homes. We remember, that this had been after an abortive attempt on their part to take Jesus by force and make Him their Messiah-King. We can understand that the effectual resistance of Jesus to their purpose not only weakened, but in great measure neutralised, the effect of the miracle which they had witnessed. In fact, we look upon this check as the first turning of the tide
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

The Kinsman-Redeemer
'Their Redeemer is strong; the Lord of Hosts is His name: He shall thoroughly plead their cause.'--JER. l. 34. Among the remarkable provisions of the Mosaic law there were some very peculiar ones affecting the next-of-kin. The nearest living blood relation to a man had certain obligations and offices to discharge, under certain contingencies, in respect of which he received a special name; which is sometimes translated in the Old Testament 'Redeemer,' and sometimes 'Avenger' of blood. What the etymological
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

His Future Work
The Lord Jesus Christ, who finished the work on earth the Father gave Him to do, who is now bodily present in the highest heaven, occupying the Father's throne and exercising His priesthood in behalf of His people, is also King. To Him belongeth a Kingdom and a kingly Glory. He has therefore a kingly work to do. While His past work was foretold by the Spirit of God and His priestly work foreshadowed in the Old Testament, His work as King and His glorious Kingdom to come are likewise the subjects
A. C. Gaebelein—The Work Of Christ

What Messiah did the Jews Expect?
1. The most important point here is to keep in mind the organic unity of the Old Testament. Its predictions are not isolated, but features of one grand prophetic picture; its ritual and institutions parts of one great system; its history, not loosely connected events, but an organic development tending towards a definite end. Viewed in its innermost substance, the history of the Old Testament is not different from its typical institutions, nor yet these two from its predictions. The idea, underlying
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

The Poetical Books (Including Also Ecclesiastes and Canticles).
1. The Hebrews reckon but three books as poetical, namely: Job, Psalms, and Proverbs, which are distinguished from the rest by a stricter rhythm--the rhythm not of feet, but of clauses (see below, No. 3)--and a peculiar system of accentuation. It is obvious to every reader that the poetry of the Old Testament, in the usual sense of the word, is not restricted to these three books. But they are called poetical in a special and technical sense. In any natural classification of the books of the
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible

The Security of Contemplatives Lies in their not Ascending to High Things if Our Lord Does not Raise Them. The Sacred Humanity must be the Road
1. There is one thing I should like to say--I think it important: and if you, my father, approve, it will serve for a lesson that possibly may be necessary; for in some books on prayer the writers say that the soul, though it cannot in its own strength attain to this state,--because it is altogether a supernatural work wrought in it by our Lord,--may nevertheless succeed, by lifting up the spirit above all created things, and raising it upwards in humility, after some years spent in a purgative life,
Teresa of Avila—The Life of St. Teresa of Jesus

The Quotation in Matt. Ii. 6.
Several interpreters, Paulus especially, have asserted that the interpretation of Micah which is here given, was that of the Sanhedrim only, and not of the Evangelist, who merely recorded what happened and was said. But this assertion is at once refuted when we consider the object which Matthew has in view in his entire representation of the early life of Jesus. His object in recording the early life of Jesus is not like that of Luke, viz., to communicate historical information to his readers.
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament

The Debt of Irenæus to Justin Martyr
If we are to proceed with safety in forming a judgment as to the relation between Justin and Irenæus in respect of the matter which they have in common, it will be necessary not merely to consider a number of selected parallels, but also to examine the treatment of a particular theme in the two writers. Let us set side by side, for example, c. 32 of Justin's First Apology with c. 57 of the Demonstration. Justin has been explaining to his Roman readers who the Jewish prophets were, and then
Irenæus—The Demonstration of the Apostolic Preaching

Links
Psalm 72:4 NIV
Psalm 72:4 NLT
Psalm 72:4 ESV
Psalm 72:4 NASB
Psalm 72:4 KJV

Psalm 72:4 Commentaries

Bible Hub
Psalm 72:3
Top of Page
Top of Page