1 The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth [between] the cherubims; let the earth be moved.
2 The LORD [is] great in Zion; and he [is] high above all the people.
3 Let them praise thy great and terrible name; [for] it [is] holy.
4 The king’s strength also loveth judgment; thou dost establish equity, thou executest judgment and righteousness in Jacob.
5 Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; [for] he [is] holy.
6 Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among them that call upon his name; they called upon the LORD, and he answered them.
7 He spake unto them in the cloudy pillar: they kept his testimonies, and the ordinance [that] he gave them.
8 Thou answeredst them, O LORD our God: thou wast a God that forgavest them, though thou tookest vengeance of their inventions.
9 Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at his holy hill; for the LORD our God [is] holy.
Overview of Psalm 99
Psalm 99 is a royal psalm that celebrates God’s sovereignty and holiness. It emphasizes God’s reign over all nations and His unique relationship with Israel. The psalmist calls for reverence and worship, highlighting God’s justice, mercy, and the importance of obedience to His commandments.
Structure of Psalm 99
The chapter can be divided into three main sections:
- Verses 1-3: The Sovereignty of God
- God’s reign is proclaimed, emphasizing His authority over all the earth.
- The imagery of God sitting enthroned between the cherubim signifies His divine presence and majesty.
- The call for the earth to tremble reflects the awe and reverence due to God.
- Verses 4-5: God’s Justice and Righteousness
- God is portrayed as a mighty king who loves justice and establishes equity.
- The mention of God’s actions in Israel highlights His faithfulness to His people.
- The call to worship at His footstool emphasizes the need for humility before God.
- Verses 6-9: The Holiness of God
- The psalmist recalls the leaders of Israel (Moses, Aaron, and Samuel) who called upon God and were answered.
- God’s holiness is a central theme, underscoring His separation from sin and His purity.
- The exhortation to worship at His holy hill reinforces the need for reverence in God’s presence.
Thematic Analysis
Psalm 99 presents several key themes that are significant for understanding its message:
- Sovereignty of God: The psalm emphasizes God’s ultimate authority over all creation, portraying Him as a king who reigns with power and majesty.
- Holiness: God’s holiness is a recurring motif, reminding the faithful of His purity and the necessity of approaching Him with reverence.
- Justice and Righteousness: The psalm highlights God’s commitment to justice, reflecting His nature as a fair and equitable ruler who cares for His people.
- Worship and Reverence: The call to worship underscores the importance of acknowledging God’s greatness and responding appropriately through reverence and obedience.
Theological Implications
Psalm 99 offers profound theological insights:
- God’s Kingship: The portrayal of God as king reinforces the belief in His sovereignty over all nations and the assurance that He governs with wisdom and justice.
- Relationship with Israel: The psalm highlights God’s special relationship with Israel, illustrating His faithfulness and the importance of obedience to His commandments.
- Call to Holiness: The emphasis on God’s holiness serves as a reminder for believers to pursue holiness in their own lives and to approach God with the appropriate attitude of reverence.
Conclusion
Psalm 99 is a powerful declaration of God’s sovereignty, holiness, and justice. It calls for reverence and worship, reminding believers of their relationship with God and the importance of living in accordance with His will. The psalm serves as both a celebration of God’s majesty and a call to faithful obedience.
