Psalm 144:12
ESV
May our sons in their youth be like plants full grown, our daughters like corner pillars cut for the structure of a palace;
NIV
Then our sons in their youth will be like well-nurtured plants, and our daughters will be like pillars carved to adorn a palace.
NASB
When our sons in their youth are like growing plants, And our daughters like corner pillars fashioned for a palace,
CSB
Then our sons will be like plants nurtured in their youth, our daughters, like corner pillars that are carved in the palace style.
NLT
May our sons flourish in their youth like well-nurtured plants. May our daughters be like graceful pillars, carved to beautify a palace.
KJV
That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; that our daughters may be as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace:
NKJV
That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; That our daughters may be as pillars, Sculptured in palace style;
What does Psalm 144:12 mean?
Please see our chapter commentary on Psalm 144; verse-level content coming soon!Psalm 144:12–15 prays for David's descendants to be strong. David prays for healthy and attractive sons and daughters, abundant harvests, for the livestock to multiply without harm, and for peace in the nation's streets. He acknowledges that the people who receive these benefits are blessed. David also celebrates that it is a blessing to worship the One True God of Israel.
David begins by praising the Lord for ability, protection, and success in battle. This is amazing because humanity is so frail and temporary compared to God. Still, David asks for the Lord's intervention. Enemy nations and those who make false promises plague David. Yet he confidently plans to praise the Lord for the anticipated victory. The song ends with a prayer for the nation of Israel to experience prosperity. This is expected when the king is preserved, and such blessings are part of being God's chosen people.
