Psalms 72:20 (KJV)

What does Psalms 72:20 mean?

Psalms 72:20 states that the prayers of David, the son of Jesse, are finished. This verse marks the conclusion of a collection of prayers or psalms attributed to David within the Book of Psalms.

This statement is not a prayer itself but a closing note, likely added by an editor or compiler. It signals to the reader that the preceding psalms, many of which are ascribed to David, have come to an end at this point in the book. It helps organize the Psalms into sections and clarifies which prayers are considered part of David’s contributions.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 72:20

• תְּפִלּוֹת (tefillot, H8605): This word means "prayers" and refers to the psalms or supplications offered by David. It highlights that what has come before are not just songs, but heartfelt prayers.
• כָּלוּ (kalu, H3615): This word is translated "are ended" or "are finished." It carries the sense of something being completed or fulfilled, making clear that this is a formal conclusion to David’s prayers in this section.

Why Psalms 72:20 matters

• Psalms 72:20 helps readers recognize a natural division in the Book of Psalms, showing that the first two books (Psalms 1–72) are largely attributed to David.
• This verse prevents confusion by clarifying that not every psalm in the entire book is from David, even though he is a central figure.
• The verse also emphasizes the intentional structure and careful compilation of the Psalms, reminding readers that these prayers were gathered and preserved with a sense of order and purpose.