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

PSALMS 99:1KJV
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Psalms 99:1 (KJV)

What does Psalms 99:1 mean?

Psalms 99:1 declares that the LORD is the supreme ruler over everything, and this awesome authority should cause people to feel a sense of reverence and awe. The verse pictures God as enthroned above the cherubim, a sign of His holiness and power, and says that the whole earth should respond to His presence.

This psalm is part of a collection where the writer, likely addressing the people of Israel, praises God’s kingship and holiness. The mention of the LORD sitting between the cherubim refers to the imagery of the Ark of the Covenant in the temple, highlighting God’s nearness and majesty. The verse sets a tone of respect and wonder, reminding listeners that God’s rule is not just local but extends over all the earth.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 99:1

  • LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name of God used in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His unique identity and covenant relationship with Israel.
  • reigneth (מָלַךְ, malakh): This word means "to rule as king." It stresses that God’s authority is active and ongoing, not just a title but a present reality.
  • cherubims (כְּרוּבִים, keruvim): These are angelic beings associated with God’s throne, especially in the temple. Mentioning them highlights God's holiness and the awe-inspiring nature of His presence.
  • tremble (רָגַז, ragaz): This word can mean to quake or shake, often from fear or awe. It shows that God’s rule is not casual—His presence is overwhelming and demands a response.

Why Psalms 99:1 matters

  • Psalms 99:1 clarifies that God’s kingship is not distant or abstract but is meant to be felt and recognized by all people, not just Israel.
  • The verse connects God’s rule to the imagery of the cherubim, reminding readers of the temple and God’s special presence among His people.
  • By saying the earth should be "moved," the verse highlights that God’s reign has real effects on the world, stirring both reverence and a sense of His active involvement in creation.

Where else these words appear

“tremble” Hebrew H7264 · used in 40 verses

  • Genesis 45:24 So he sent his brethren away, and they departed: and he said unto them, See that ye fall not out by the way.
  • Psalms 4:4 Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
  • Isaiah 32:11 Tremble, ye women that are at ease; be troubled, ye careless ones: strip you, and make you bare, and gird sackcloth upon your loins.

“cherubims” Hebrew H3742 · used in 66 verses

  • Genesis 3:24 So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.
  • 1 Kings 6:28 And he overlaid the cherubims with gold.
  • Ezekiel 9:3 And the glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon he was, to the threshold of the house. And he called to the man clothed with linen, which had the writer's inkhorn by his side;