Psalm 99:1

The LORD reigns, let the nations tremble! He is enthroned above the cherubim. Let the earth quake.

Study Bible

The LORD reigns
The phrase "The LORD reigns" is a powerful declaration of God's sovereignty and kingship. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the personal name of God, emphasizing His eternal and self-existent nature. "Reigns" comes from the Hebrew root "malak," which means to be king or to rule. This phrase asserts that God is the ultimate authority over all creation, a comforting truth for believers who trust in His divine governance. Historically, this proclamation would have been a source of hope and assurance for the Israelites, who often faced threats from surrounding nations. It reminds us today that despite the chaos in the world, God is in control.

let the nations tremble
The call for the nations to "tremble" reflects the awe and reverence due to God's majestic power. The Hebrew word "ragaz" conveys a sense of quaking or shaking, often associated with fear or reverence. In the ancient Near Eastern context, nations were often in conflict, and the idea of a supreme deity reigning over all would indeed cause them to tremble. This trembling is not just fear but a recognition of God's holiness and justice. For Christians, it serves as a reminder that all nations are accountable to God, and His righteous judgment will prevail.

He is enthroned above the cherubim
The imagery of God being "enthroned above the cherubim" draws from the Ark of the Covenant, where the presence of God was believed to dwell between the cherubim on the mercy seat (Exodus 25:22). The cherubim are angelic beings that symbolize God's holiness and majesty. The Hebrew word "yashab" for "enthroned" suggests a settled, sovereign rule. This phrase emphasizes God's transcendence and His intimate presence with His people. It reassures believers of God's nearness and His role as the divine King who is both majestic and approachable through His covenant.

let the earth quake
The command for the earth to "quake" underscores the universal impact of God's reign. The Hebrew word "nua" means to shake or totter, indicating a response to God's overwhelming presence. In biblical times, natural phenomena like earthquakes were often seen as manifestations of divine activity. This phrase serves as a metaphor for the transformative power of God's rule, which affects all creation. For Christians, it is a call to recognize the profound changes that God's kingdom brings to the world and to live in anticipation of His ultimate renewal of all things.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, representing the sovereign God of Israel who reigns over all creation.

2. Nations
Refers to all the peoples of the earth, emphasizing the universal scope of God's reign.

3. Cherubim
Angelic beings associated with the presence of God, often depicted as guardians of His holiness and majesty.

4. Earth
Represents the entirety of creation, which responds to God's sovereign rule.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is the ultimate authority over all nations and creation. His reign is not limited by human boundaries or powers.

Reverence and Awe
Approach God with a sense of reverence and awe, acknowledging His holiness and majesty. Our response should be one of humility and worship.

God's Presence
Understand that God's presence is both comforting and awe-inspiring. He is near to His people, yet His holiness demands respect and reverence.

Universal Impact
God's reign affects the entire earth. As believers, we are called to live in a way that reflects His rule and brings His kingdom values to our communities.

Response to God's Reign
Our lives should be a testimony to God's sovereign rule. This includes living in obedience, sharing the gospel, and being agents of His peace and justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of God being "enthroned above the cherubim" enhance our understanding of His holiness and majesty?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a sense of reverence and awe in our daily worship and prayer life?

3. How does recognizing God's sovereignty over the nations influence our perspective on current global events?

4. What practical steps can we take to reflect God's kingdom values in our local communities?

5. How can we encourage others to respond to God's reign with humility and worship, both within the church and in the broader society?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 6:1-4
This passage describes the vision of the Lord seated on a high and exalted throne, with seraphim attending Him, similar to the imagery of God enthroned above the cherubim.

Revelation 4:1-11
The vision of God's throne room in heaven, where creatures and elders worship Him, parallels the majesty and sovereignty depicted in Psalm 99:1.

Exodus 25:22
The mercy seat above the Ark of the Covenant, flanked by cherubim, is where God promised to meet with Moses, highlighting the significance of God's presence above the cherubim.