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.
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Commentary on Psalms 99 Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible
PSALM 99
Ps 99:1-9. God's government is especially exercised in and for His Church, which should praise Him for His gracious dealings.
1. sitteth … cherubim—(compare 1Sa 4:4; Ps 80:1).
tremble … be moved—inspired with fear by His judgments on the wicked.
2. great in Zion—where He dwells (Ps 9:11).
3. thy … name—perfections of justice, power, &c.
great and terrible name—producing dread (De 10:17), and to be praised by those over whom He is exalted (Ps 97:9).
it is holy—or, "He is holy" (Ps 99:5, 9; Isa 6:3).
4, 5. To His wise and righteous government all nations should render honor.
king's … judgment—His power is combined with justice.
he is holy—(compare Ps 22:3).
6-8. The experience of these servants of God is cited for encouragement.
among … priests, among … upon the Lord [and] He spake … pillar—may be referred to all three (compare Ex 18:19; Le 8:15; De 5:5; 1Sa 9:13).
7. cloudy pillar—the medium of divine intercourse (Ex 33:9; Nu 12:5). Obedience was united with worship. God answered them as intercessors for the people, who, though forgiven, were yet chastened (Ex 32:10, 34).