Clouds and darkness surround Him; righteousness and justice are His throne's foundation. Clouds and darknessThe phrase "clouds and darkness" evokes a sense of mystery and awe, often associated with the divine presence in the Hebrew Scriptures. In Hebrew, the word for "clouds" is "עָנָן" (anan), which frequently symbolizes God's presence, as seen in the pillar of cloud that guided the Israelites in the wilderness ( Exodus 13:21). "Darkness," or "עֲרָפֶל" (araphel), can signify the incomprehensibility of God's ways and His transcendence. This imagery suggests that God's presence is both majestic and beyond human understanding, reminding believers of the reverence due to Him. surround Him
The phrase "surround Him" indicates that these elements are not just incidental but are integral to the divine presence. In the Hebrew context, the verb "סָבַב" (sabab) means to encircle or encompass, suggesting that God's majesty is enveloped in mystery. This surrounding presence emphasizes God's sovereignty and the idea that His ways and judgments are beyond human scrutiny, reinforcing the need for faith and trust in His divine plan. righteousness and justice
"Righteousness and justice" are foundational attributes of God's character. The Hebrew word for "righteousness" is "צֶדֶק" (tsedeq), which implies moral integrity and uprightness. "Justice," or "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat), refers to the fair and equitable administration of law. Together, these terms underscore the perfect moral order that God establishes and maintains. In a world often marked by injustice, this assurance of divine righteousness and justice offers hope and a standard for human conduct. are His throne’s foundation
The phrase "are His throne’s foundation" conveys the idea that God's rule is established upon these unshakeable principles. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a throne symbolized authority and governance. The Hebrew word for "foundation" is "מָכוֹן" (makon), meaning a fixed or established place. This imagery assures believers that God's reign is not arbitrary but is grounded in His unchanging nature. It invites Christians to align their lives with these divine principles, trusting in the stability and fairness of God's kingdom. Persons / Places / Events 1. God (Yahweh)The central figure in this verse, depicted as being surrounded by clouds and darkness, symbolizing His majesty and mystery. 2. Throne of GodRepresents God's sovereign rule, established on the principles of righteousness and justice. 3. Clouds and DarknessSymbolic elements that convey the awe-inspiring and sometimes incomprehensible nature of God's presence. Teaching Points The Majesty of GodGod's presence is often depicted with elements like clouds and darkness, which remind us of His majesty and the reverence due to Him. We should approach God with awe and respect, acknowledging His greatness. The Mystery of GodThe imagery of darkness suggests that there are aspects of God that are beyond human understanding. We must trust in His wisdom and sovereignty, even when we do not fully comprehend His ways. Righteousness and JusticeThese are foundational to God's rule. As believers, we are called to reflect these attributes in our lives, striving to live righteously and uphold justice in our communities. God's SovereigntyThe throne imagery underscores God's ultimate authority over the universe. We can find comfort in knowing that His rule is perfect and just, even amidst the chaos of the world. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the imagery of clouds and darkness in Psalm 97:2 enhance your understanding of God's nature? 2. In what ways can you reflect God's righteousness and justice in your daily life? 3. How do the descriptions of God's presence in Exodus 19:9 and 1 Kings 8:12 deepen your appreciation for His majesty? 4. What are some practical steps you can take to trust in God's sovereignty when faced with situations you do not understand? 5. How can the consistency of God's character, as seen in Psalm 97:2 and Psalm 89:14, encourage you in your faith journey? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 19:9This verse describes God descending on Mount Sinai in a thick cloud, emphasizing His majestic and mysterious presence, similar to the imagery in Psalm 97:2. 1 Kings 8:12Solomon acknowledges that God dwells in thick darkness, reinforcing the idea of God's inscrutable nature. Psalm 89:14This verse also speaks of righteousness and justice as the foundation of God's throne, highlighting the consistency of God's character throughout Scripture. Isaiah 45:7God declares His sovereignty over light and darkness, illustrating His control over all creation and His ability to use both for His purposes. | God's Ways, Though Inscrutable, are Righteous and Just | R. Hall, M.A. | Psalm 97:2 | | The Divine Character and Government | C. Short | Psalm 97:2 | | The Hidings of the Deity | H. Melvill, B.D. | Psalm 97:2 | | The Majesty of God Obscured by the Sinfulness of Man | Essex Remembrancer | Psalm 97:2 | | The Mysteries of Providence | D. A. Clark. | Psalm 97:2 | | The Providence of God | G. W. M'Cree. | Psalm 97:2 | | The Unknowable and Knowable in God | W. G. Horder. | Psalm 97:2 | | What God Seems, and What God is | R. Tuck | Psalm 97:2 | | How May Our Belief of God's Governing the World Support Us in All Worldly Distractions | S. Slater, M.A. | Psalm 97:1-12 | | Jehovah is King | R. C. Ford, M.A. | Psalm 97:1-12 | | Jehovah is King | S. Conway | Psalm 97:1-12 | | Jehovah's Sovereignty | H. Burton, B.A. | Psalm 97:1-12 | | The Consolation of God's Sovereignty | W. Clarkson, B.A. | Psalm 97:1-12 | | The Divine Government | Evangelical Preacher | Psalm 97:1-12 | | The Divine Government Matter O Universal Joy | C. Backus, M.A. | Psalm 97:1-12 | | The Divine Government of the Universe | W. Morrison, D.D. | Psalm 97:1-12 | | The Divine Government the Joy of Our World | S. Davies, M.A. | Psalm 97:1-12 | | The Fact and Consequence of the Divine Government | G. M. Mackie, M. A. | Psalm 97:1-12 | | The Lord Reigneth | J. H. Jowett, M.A. | Psalm 97:1-12 | | The Reign of God | R. Watson. | Psalm 97:1-12 | | The Reign of God Over the World | Homilist | Psalm 97:1-12 |
People PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Based, Basis, Cloud, Clouds, Dark, Darkness, Foundation, Habitation, Judging, Judgment, Justice, Kingdom, Righteousness, Round, Surround, Thick, ThroneDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 97:2 1125 God, righteousness
1670 symbols
4805 clouds
4810 darkness, natural
5317 foundation
5581 throne
6025 sin, and God's character
7254 plumb-line
7344 curtain
9230 judgment seat Psalm 97:1-2 8608 prayer, and worship Psalm 97:2-4 1454 theophany Library August 13. "Clouds and Darkness are Round About Him" (Ps. Xcvii. 2).
"Clouds and darkness are round about Him" (Ps. xcvii. 2). The presence of clouds upon your sky, and trials in your path, is the very best evidence that you are following the pillar of cloud, and walking in the presence of God. They had to enter the cloud before they could behold the glory of the transfiguration, and a little later that same cloud became the chariot to receive the ascending Lord, and it is still waiting as the chariot that will bring His glorious appearing. Still it is true that white …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth June the Thirteenth Clouded but not Lost!
"Clouds and darkness are round about Him." --PSALM xcvii. When Lincoln had been assassinated, and word of the tragedy came to New York, "the people were in a state of mind which urges to violence." A man appeared on the balcony of one of the newspaper offices, waving a small flag, and a clear voice rang through the air: "Fellow-citizens! Clouds and darkness are round about Him! His pavilion is dark waters, and thick clouds of the skies! Justice and judgment are the habitation of His throne! Fellow-citizens, …
John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year Righteous Hatred
The duty here enjoined is a general one to all God's people. We are to hate all evi--not some evils. It was said, you know, long ago, of certain professors, that they did "Compound for sins they were inclined to By damning those they had no mind to." And there are some, I dare say, at this day, who think others extremely guilty for committing iniquities which they do not care to commit, but they themselves commit other sins with which they deal very gently. O Christian, never take hold of sin, except …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858 We Too are Thine.
"The Lord reigneth; let the earth rejoice."--Psalm 97:1. "Herr, unser Gott, mit Ehrfurcht dienen." [68]G. Tersteegen. transl., Sarah Findlater, 1858 Lord our God, in reverence lowly, The hosts of heaven call Thee "holy." From cherubim and seraphim, From angel phalanx, far extending, In fuller tones is still ascending The "holy, holy," of their hymn. The fount of joy Thou art, Ever filling every heart, Ever! ever! We too are Thine, and with them sing, "Thou, Lord, and only Thou art King." Lord, …
Jane Borthwick—Hymns from the Land of Luther The Morning Light
Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising. O ne strong internal proof that the Bible is a divine revelation, may be drawn from the subject matter; and particularly that it is the book, and the only book, that teaches us to …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1 Sixth Day. Holiness and Glory.
Who is like unto Thee, O Lord! among the gods? Who is like unto Thee, glorious in holiness, Fearful in praises, doing wonders? Thou in Thy mercy hast led Thy people which Thou hast redeemed: Thou hast guided them in Thy strength to the habitation of Thy holiness ... The holy place, O Lord, which Thy hands have established.' --Ex. xv. 11-17. In these words we have another step in advance in the revelation of Holiness. We have here for the first time Holiness predicated of God Himself. He …
Andrew Murray—Holy in Christ Man's Chief End
Q-I: WHAT IS THE CHIEF END OF MAN? A: Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him for ever. Here are two ends of life specified. 1: The glorifying of God. 2: The enjoying of God. I. The glorifying of God, I Pet 4:4: That God in all things may be glorified.' The glory of God is a silver thread which must run through all our actions. I Cor 10:01. Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.' Everything works to some end in things natural and artificial; …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity The Second Commandment
Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am o jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of then that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments.' Exod 20: 4-6. I. Thou shalt not …
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments The Ascension of Messiah to Glory
Lift up your head, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. T he institutions of the Levitical law were a "shadow" or "sketch" of good things to come. They exhibited a faint and general outline …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2 Being Made Archbishop of Armagh, He Suffers Many Troubles. Peace Being Made, from Being Archbishop of Armagh He Becomes Bishop of Down.
[Sidenote: 1129] 19. (12). Meanwhile[365] it happened that Archbishop Cellach[366] fell sick: he it was who ordained Malachy deacon, presbyter and bishop: and knowing that he was dying he made a sort of testament[367] to the effect that Malachy ought to succeed him,[368] because none seemed worthier to be bishop of the first see. This he gave in charge to those who were present, this he commanded to the absent, this to the two kings of Munster[369] and to the magnates of the land he specially enjoined …
H. J. Lawlor—St. Bernard of Clairvaux's Life of St. Malachy of Armagh Messiah Despised, and Rejected of Men
He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrow, and acquainted with grief. T he heathen moralists, ignorant of the character and perfections of God, the true dignity and immorality of the soul, and the root and extent of human depravity, had no better foundation, for what they call virtue, than pride; no higher aim in their regulations, than the interests of society, and the conduct of civil life. They expressed, indeed, occasionally, some sentiments of a superior kind; but these, however just …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1 Psalms
The piety of the Old Testament Church is reflected with more clearness and variety in the Psalter than in any other book of the Old Testament. It constitutes the response of the Church to the divine demands of prophecy, and, in a less degree, of law; or, rather, it expresses those emotions and aspirations of the universal heart which lie deeper than any formal demand. It is the speech of the soul face to face with God. Its words are as simple and unaffected as human words can be, for it is the genius …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Psalm 97:2 NIVPsalm 97:2 NLTPsalm 97:2 ESVPsalm 97:2 NASBPsalm 97:2 KJV
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