What does Psalms 99:1 mean?
"The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved." - Psalms 99:1
The Bible verse Psalm 99:1 from the King James Version (KJV) says, "The Lord reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved." This verse is from the Book of Psalms, which is a collection of religious songs, prayers, and poems that express the range of human emotions and experiences in relation to God. Psalm 99 is specifically a song of praise and adoration to God, and it focuses on the sovereignty and holiness of the Lord.
The opening line of the verse, "The Lord reigneth," establishes the central theme of God's kingship and reign over all the earth. This declaration echoes the praise of other psalmists and prophets who acknowledge God as the supreme ruler and authority. The word "reigneth" conveys the idea that God's sovereignty is not temporary or limited, but ongoing and eternal. It affirms that God is in control of both the physical and spiritual realms, governing all creation with wisdom and justice.
The second part of the verse, "let the people tremble," reflects the response that is appropriate in light of God's reign. The notion of trembling before the Lord conveys a sense of awe, reverence, and fear. It acknowledges the greatness and majesty of God, inspiring a humble and submissive posture in the presence of divine power. This reaction is not one of terror or dread, but rather a recognition of God's holiness and authority that leads to worship and obedience.
The following phrase, "he sitteth between the cherubims," contains rich symbolism that harkens back to the imagery of the ancient Israelite tabernacle and temple. In the Most Holy Place, the inner sanctum of these sacred spaces, were two carved angelic figures known as cherubim, positioned on top of the Ark of the Covenant. This was considered the earthly throne of God, and the space between the cherubim was believed to be where God's presence was uniquely and tangibly manifest. Therefore, the statement "he sitteth between the cherubims" evokes the visual and spiritual image of God's royal enthronement and his proximity to his people.
The final declaration, "let the earth be moved," expresses the impact and significance of God's reign. The phrase "the earth" can be interpreted both literally and figuratively. Literally, it refers to the physical world and all its inhabitants, signaling that all creation is affected by God's rule. Figuratively, it suggests a stirring or shaking, conveying the idea that the recognition of God's dominion should lead to a transformative response. This could include repentance, alignment with God's will, and a realignment of priorities and values in light of God's kingship.
In summary, Psalm 99:1 from the King James Version encapsulates the themes of God's sovereignty, reverence for his holiness, the symbolism of his divine presence, and the transformative impact of acknowledging his reign. It serves as a call to worship and honor the Lord as the supreme ruler of all, and it invites all creation to respond with awe, humility, and adoration. This verse can offer comfort to believers by affirming God's control over all things, and it challenges them to align their lives with God's will and to honor his kingship in thought, word, and deed.
Have questions about Psalms 99:1?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Psalms 99:1 Artwork
Psalms 99:1 - "The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved."
"The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved." - Psalms 99:1
Psalms 99:3 - "Let them praise thy great and terrible name; for it is holy."
Psalms 99:2 - "The LORD is great in Zion; and he is high above all the people."
Psalms 99:5 - "Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; for he is holy."
Psalms 99:9 - "Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at his holy hill; for the LORD our God is holy."
"Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; for he is holy." - Psalms 99:5
Psalms 119:99 - "I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation."
Psalms 99:7 - "He spake unto them in the cloudy pillar: they kept his testimonies, and the ordinance that he gave them."
Psalms 99:4 - "The king's strength also loveth judgment; thou dost establish equity, thou executest judgment and righteousness in Jacob."
"Let them praise thy great and terrible name; for it is holy." - Psalms 99:3
"The LORD is great in Zion; and he is high above all the people." - Psalms 99:2
Psalms 99:6 - "Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among them that call upon his name; they called upon the LORD, and he answered them."
Psalms 99:8 - "Thou answeredst them, O LORD our God: thou wast a God that forgavest them, though thou tookest vengeance of their inventions."
"Thou answeredst them, O LORD our God: thou wast a God that forgavest them, though thou tookest vengeance of their inventions." - Psalms 99:8
"He spake unto them in the cloudy pillar: they kept his testimonies, and the ordinance that he gave them." - Psalms 99:7
"I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation." - Psalms 119:99
"Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at his holy hill; for the LORD our God is holy." - Psalms 99:9
"The king's strength also loveth judgment; thou dost establish equity, thou executest judgment and righteousness in Jacob." - Psalms 99:4
"Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among them that call upon his name; they called upon the LORD, and he answered them." - Psalms 99:6
psalm 80:1-7
Psalms 128:1 - "Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways."
Psalms 122:1 - "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD."
Psalms 15:1 (KJVA) 1 A Psalm of David. LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
Psalms 15:1 (KJVA) 1 A Psalm of David. LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
Psalms 64:1 - "Hear my voice, O God, in my prayer: preserve my life from fear of the enemy."
Psalms 14:1 (KJVA) 1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.
Psalms 14:1 (KJVA) 1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.
Psalms 14:1 (KJVA) 1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.
Psalms 14:1 (KJVA) 1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.