Your people
"Your people" refers to the covenant community of Israel, God's chosen people. The Hebrew word for "people" is "עַם" (am), which signifies a group bound together by common identity and purpose. In the biblical narrative, Israel is set apart as God's treasured possession, a nation through whom God would reveal His character and purposes to the world. This phrase highlights the king's responsibility to lead and judge with a heart aligned to God's covenantal promises. In a broader theological sense, "your people" can also be seen as encompassing all who are grafted into the family of God through faith in Christ, as Paul discusses in Romans 11.

with righteousness
The phrase "with righteousness" is central to understanding the nature of the king's rule. The Hebrew word for "righteousness" is "צֶדֶק" (tsedeq), which conveys the idea of justice, rightness, and ethical conduct. Righteousness in the biblical sense is not merely about legal correctness but involves a deep commitment to God's standards of holiness and justice. The king's rule is to reflect God's own righteous character, ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done. This anticipates the perfect righteousness of Christ, who fulfills all righteousness on behalf of His people (Matthew 3:15).

and Your afflicted
"Your afflicted" refers to those who are oppressed, marginalized, or suffering within the community. The Hebrew word "עָנִי" (ani) denotes those who are humble, poor, or in distress. In the biblical context, God consistently shows a special concern for the afflicted, calling His people to care for the widow, the orphan, and the stranger. This phrase emphasizes the king's duty to protect and provide for the vulnerable, ensuring that justice is accessible to all, not just the powerful or wealthy. It reflects God's heart for the downtrodden and His desire for a society where all are treated with dignity and fairness.

with justice
The phrase "with justice" complements "with righteousness," reinforcing the king's obligation to uphold God's standards in his governance. The Hebrew word for "justice" is "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat), which involves the fair and equitable application of the law. Justice in the biblical sense is about restoring what is broken and making things right. It is a key attribute of God's character, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 32:4, where God is described as a God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright. The king's administration of justice is to mirror God's own just nature, pointing ultimately to the perfect justice that will be established in Christ's eternal kingdom.