And he shall live, and to him shall be given of the gold of Sheba: prayer also shall be made for him continually; and daily shall he be praised.

PSALMS 72:15KJV
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Psalms 72:15 (KJV)

What does Psalms 72:15 mean?

Psalms 72:15 describes a king who will live and be honored with gifts of gold from Sheba, while people continually pray for him and praise him every day. The verse paints a picture of ongoing respect, blessing, and support for this ruler.

This psalm is attributed to Solomon or written for him, expressing hopes for his reign or for an ideal king in Israel. The verse highlights the king’s prosperity and the devotion of his people, using the image of valuable gifts and constant prayers to show how highly he is regarded. The mention of Sheba, known for its wealth, emphasizes the king’s international reputation and the blessings expected during his rule.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 72:15

  • "Live" (חָיָה, chayah): This word means to live or have life. In this context, it suggests not just physical survival but a flourishing, blessed life for the king.
  • "Given" (נָתַן, nathan): This verb means to give or bestow. The use here shows that the gold from Sheba is not taken by force, but willingly offered as a tribute or gift.
  • "Gold" (זָהָב, zahav): Gold is a symbol of great value and honor. Mentioning gold from Sheba (שְׁבָא, Sheva) points to rare and precious gifts, highlighting the king’s high status.
  • "Made" (פָּלַל, palal): This word refers to making prayer or intercession. The verse stresses that prayers for the king are not occasional but ongoing.
  • "Continually" (תָּמִיד, tamid) and "daily" (יוֹם, yom): These words reinforce the idea of constant, unceasing prayer and praise, showing the king’s enduring importance to his people.
  • "Praised" (בָּרַךְ, barak): This verb means to bless or praise. The daily blessing of the king suggests a relationship of ongoing goodwill and support from the people.

Why Psalms 72:15 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the honor and gifts given to the king are voluntary and a sign of respect, not forced tribute or oppression.
  • The focus on continual prayer and daily praise shows the ideal relationship between the king and his people—one of mutual blessing and support, not just political power.
  • By mentioning Sheba and valuable gold, the verse connects the king’s reign to international recognition and prosperity, which fits the broader theme of Psalm 72 about the ideal, just ruler whose influence reaches far beyond Israel.

Where else these words appear

“Sheba” Hebrew H7614 · used in 23 verses

  • Genesis 10:7 And the sons of Cush; Seba, and Havilah, and Sabtah, and Raamah, and Sabtecha: and the sons of Raamah; Sheba, and Dedan.
  • 1 Chronicles 1:9 And the sons of Cush; Seba, and Havilah, and Sabta, and Raamah, and Sabtecha. And the sons of Raamah; Sheba, and Dedan.
  • Job 1:15 And the Sabeans fell upon them, and took them away; yea, they have slain the servants with the edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.

“made” Hebrew H6419 · used in 82 verses

  • Genesis 20:7 Now therefore restore the man his wife; for he is a prophet, and he shall pray for thee, and thou shalt live: and if thou restore her not, know thou that thou shalt surely die, thou, and all that are thine.
  • 1 Kings 13:6 And the king answered and said unto the man of God, Intreat now the face of the LORD thy God, and pray for me, that my hand may be restored me again. And the man of God besought the LORD, and the king's hand was restored him again, and became as it was before.
  • Job 42:8 Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job.

“continually” Hebrew H8548 · used in 103 verses

  • Exodus 25:30 And thou shalt set upon the table shewbread before me alway.
  • Deuteronomy 11:12 A land which the LORD thy God careth for: the eyes of the LORD thy God are always upon it, from the beginning of the year even unto the end of the year.
  • Psalms 105:4 Seek the LORD, and his strength: seek his face evermore.