King James Version

What Does Psalms 99:1 Mean?

Psalms 99:1 in the King James Version says “The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved. be moved: Heb. stag...” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 99 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved. be moved: Heb. stagger”

Psalms 99:1 · KJV

Context

1

The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved. be moved: Heb. stagger

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.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The declaration 'The LORD reigneth' (Yahweh malak) opens this third consecutive enthronement psalm, emphasizing God's kingship as central to worship. The call for people to 'tremble' (ragaz) indicates appropriate fear before the holy King. God 'sitteth between the cherubims' refers to the mercy seat in the Holy of Holies, where God's presence dwelled above the ark. This position demonstrates both God's transcendent holiness and His immanent presence with His people. The earth moving at His reign shows creation's response to divine sovereignty.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The ark of the covenant with its cherubim-adorned mercy seat represented God's throne in Israel, making His reign both theological truth and liturgical reality in temple worship.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does awareness of God's holy reign produce both reverential fear and confident trust in your life?
  2. What does it mean that the God who is enthroned above cherubim also dwells with His people through Christ?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
יְהוָ֣ה1 of 8

“The LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

מָ֭לָךְ2 of 8

“reigneth”

H4427

to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel

יִרְגְּז֣וּ3 of 8

“tremble”

H7264

to quiver (with any violent emotion, especially anger or fear)

עַמִּ֑ים4 of 8

“let the people”

H5971

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

יֹשֵׁ֥ב5 of 8

“he sitteth”

H3427

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

כְּ֝רוּבִ֗ים6 of 8

“between the cherubims”

H3742

a cherub or imaginary figure

תָּנ֥וּט7 of 8

“be moved”

H5120

to quake

הָאָֽרֶץ׃8 of 8

“let the earth”

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 99:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 99:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 97:1Exodus 25:22Psalms 80:1Psalms 93:1Psalms 97:4Revelation 20:11

Test Your Knowledge

Psalms 99 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterPsalms Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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