Question 1

What does Psalms 99:3 mean?

Accepted Answer

Psalms 99:3 calls on people to praise God’s great and awe-inspiring name because God is holy. The verse highlights both the majesty and the set-apartness of God’s character, inviting respect and reverence. The psalm is part of a song celebrating God as King over all. The speaker is likely a worship leader or the psalmist, addressing the gathered people of Israel. The verse emphasizes that God’s name—meaning God’s reputation and character—is both “great” and “terrible” (meaning awe-inspiring or fearsome), and that God’s holiness sets Him apart from all others.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Psalms 99:3

Accepted Answer

praise (יָדָה, yadah): This word means to give thanks or praise, often with an open hand or public acknowledgment. It suggests an active, expressive kind of worship, not just silent admiration. great (גָּדוֹל, gadol): This word means “large” or “important.” Here, it points to the unmatched significance and power of God’s name. terrible (יָרֵא, yare’): This word is often understood as “fearsome” or “awe-inspiring,” not “terrible” in the sense of evil, but rather worthy of deep respect and even trembling. name (שֵׁם, shem): In Hebrew thought, a name represents one’s character and reputation. Praising God’s name means honoring who God is. holy (קָדוֹשׁ, qadosh): This word means “set apart” or “sacred.” God’s holiness is the reason for the praise, marking God as unique and pure.

Question 3

Why Psalms 99:3 matters

Accepted Answer

Psalms 99:3 clarifies that God’s “terrible” name is about awe and reverence, not something evil or cruel. The verse connects God’s greatness and awe-inspiring nature directly to God’s holiness, showing that these qualities are not separate but deeply linked. This verse sets the tone for the rest of the psalm, which continues to focus on God’s unique and exalted rule over all people.

Psalms 99:3 (KJV)