What is the meaning of Psalm 96:6? Splendor and majesty are before Him “Splendor and majesty are before Him” (Psalm 96:6a). • The psalmist pictures God’s immediate presence as wrapped in radiant glory, much like Psalm 104:1, “O LORD my God, You are very great; You are clothed with splendor and majesty.” • This is no distant glow but an active display of who He is—similar to Isaiah 6:1 where Isaiah sees “the Lord seated on a high and lofty throne, and the train of His robe filled the temple.” • In Revelation 4:3 John describes the throne with jasper and carnelian brilliance, confirming that heavenly worship centers on God’s visible magnificence. • Because splendor and majesty are “before Him,” anyone who approaches the Lord encounters these qualities; they are not accessories but essential traits of His divine nature. • His grandeur invites reverence (Psalm 89:7) yet also assurance, since majesty coupled with perfect goodness means His rule is both powerful and benevolent. strength and beauty fill His sanctuary “Strength and beauty fill His sanctuary” (Psalm 96:6b). • The verse turns from God’s throne room to His dwelling place—first the earthly tabernacle, later the temple, and now the hearts of believers (1 Corinthians 6:19). • “Strength” reminds us of Psalm 29:11, “The LORD gives His people strength; the LORD blesses His people with peace.” In worship we draw on His power, not our own efforts. • “Beauty” (or “honor”) underscores that holiness is attractive, not austere, echoing Psalm 27:4: “to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and seek Him in His temple.” • Together, strength and beauty balance each other: – Strength without beauty could intimidate. – Beauty without strength would lack protection. • When the church gathers, these twin qualities should permeate our worship—robust proclamation of truth (strength) joined with reverent, awe-filled adoration (beauty), just as Ephesians 3:20-21 praises Him “who is able to do immeasurably more… to Him be the glory in the church.” summary Psalm 96:6 paints a two-part portrait of God: radiant majesty surrounding His throne and a sanctuary brimming with power and loveliness. Taken together, the verse calls worshipers to approach the Lord with reverent awe, confidence in His might, and delight in His beauty—knowing that the same God who dazzles heaven now dwells among and within His people. |
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