Psalms 72:18 (KJV)

What does Psalms 72:18 mean?

Psalms 72:18 praises the LORD God of Israel as the only one who performs truly wondrous deeds. The verse gives a blessing to God, recognizing that He alone does things that are marvelous and beyond human ability.

In this psalm, the writer (traditionally Solomon or David) is closing a prayer for the king of Israel by turning attention to God Himself. The verse highlights God’s unique power and the awe-inspiring nature of His actions, setting Him apart from all others. This blessing is meant to honor God as the source of all the wonders described in the psalm.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 72:18

• "Blessed" (בָּרוּךְ, barukh): This word means to speak well of or praise, especially in the sense of giving honor to God. It signals a formal act of worship or gratitude.
• "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel.
• "God" (אֱלֹהִים, Elohim): Used twice in this verse, this word points to God’s power and majesty, as well as His role as the true God over Israel.
• "Doeth" (עָשָׂה, asah) and "things" (פֶּלֶא, peleʾ): "Asah" means to do or make, while "peleʾ" refers to something wonderful or miraculous. Together, they stress that God is the one who actually brings about these extraordinary acts, not just in theory but in real history.

Why Psalms 72:18 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that other gods or powers are responsible for the wonders seen in Israel’s history; it is the LORD alone who does such things.
• The verse shifts the focus from human rulers or achievements to God as the true source of blessing and power, which is a key theme in the whole psalm.
• By ending with this blessing, the psalm connects the king’s success and the nation’s hope directly to God’s character and actions, not to human strength or wisdom.