The LORD reigns;
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty and kingship of God over all creation. The concept of God's reign is central to the biblical narrative, affirming His ultimate authority and control. In the context of ancient Israel, this declaration would have been a profound statement of faith, especially in a world where many nations worshiped multiple gods. The reign of the LORD is a recurring theme in the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 93:1, 97:1) and is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus is recognized as King of Kings (Revelation 19:16).

let the nations tremble!
The trembling of the nations signifies awe and reverence in the presence of God's majesty and power. Historically, Israel was surrounded by powerful empires, yet the psalmist declares that all nations should recognize the LORD's supremacy. This call to tremble is not just about fear but also about acknowledging God's rightful place as the ruler of the world. Prophetic literature, such as Isaiah 2:19-21, also speaks of nations trembling before the LORD in the day of His judgment.

He is enthroned above the cherubim;
The imagery of God being enthroned above the cherubim connects to the Ark of the Covenant, where the presence of God was believed to dwell between the cherubim on the mercy seat (Exodus 25:22). This signifies God's holiness and His intimate presence with His people. The cherubim are often associated with divine protection and the holiness of God, as seen in Ezekiel's visions (Ezekiel 10). This phrase underscores the transcendence and immanence of God, who is both high above and yet near to His people.

let the earth quake!
The earth quaking is a metaphor for the overwhelming power and presence of God. In biblical history, earthquakes often accompanied significant divine interventions, such as at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:18) and during the crucifixion of Jesus (Matthew 27:51). This imagery conveys the idea that all creation responds to the presence of its Creator. It serves as a reminder of God's power to shake the foundations of the earth, both literally and spiritually, as He establishes His kingdom.

Great is the LORD in Zion;
This phrase emphasizes the greatness of the LORD, specifically in Zion, which is another name for Jerusalem. Zion holds significant biblical importance as the city of David and the location of the Temple, symbolizing God's dwelling place among His people. The greatness of the LORD in Zion reflects His sovereign rule and divine presence. Historically, Zion was the center of Jewish worship and the site where God's glory was manifested, particularly in the Temple. This phrase connects to other scriptures such as Psalm 48:1-2, which also speaks of the LORD's greatness in Zion, and Isaiah 2:3, which prophesies that the law will go out from Zion. Zion is often seen as a type of the heavenly Jerusalem, pointing to the ultimate reign of Christ.

He is exalted above all the peoples.
This part of the verse highlights God's supremacy and authority over all nations and peoples, not just Israel. It underscores the universal sovereignty of God, who is not limited to a single nation but is the ruler of all creation. This theme is echoed in other scriptures like Psalm 97:9, which declares the LORD as exalted above all gods, and Philippians 2:9-11, where every knee shall bow to Jesus Christ, acknowledging His lordship. The exaltation of God above all peoples also points to the future messianic kingdom where Christ will reign supreme over all the earth, fulfilling prophecies such as those found in Daniel 7:14. This phrase calls believers to recognize and submit to God's ultimate authority and to proclaim His greatness to all nations.

Let them praise
This phrase is a call to worship, inviting all people to acknowledge and honor God. In the context of ancient Israel, praise was often expressed through song, dance, and sacrifices. The Psalms frequently emphasize the importance of communal worship, reflecting the cultural and religious practices of the time. This call to praise is not limited to Israel but extends to all nations, highlighting the universal sovereignty of God.

Your great and awesome name
The "name" of God in Hebrew culture represents His character and essence. The use of "great and awesome" underscores God's majesty and power. In biblical times, names held significant meaning, often reflecting the nature or destiny of a person. God's name is revered and feared, as seen in Exodus 3:14 where God reveals Himself as "I AM WHO I AM," indicating His eternal and self-existent nature. The reverence for God's name is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing His holiness and authority.

He is holy!
The holiness of God is a central theme in the Bible, signifying His purity, separateness, and moral perfection. In the context of the Old Testament, holiness is associated with God's covenant relationship with Israel, where He sets them apart as His chosen people. The declaration of God's holiness is a reminder of His transcendence and the call for His people to be holy as He is holy (Leviticus 19:2). This phrase also points to the ultimate fulfillment of holiness in Jesus Christ, who embodies the perfect holiness of God and calls His followers to live holy lives.

The mighty King loves justice.
This phrase emphasizes God's sovereign rule and His inherent love for justice. In the biblical context, God is often depicted as a King who governs with fairness and righteousness. The term "mighty King" reflects His omnipotence and authority over all creation. Justice is a central theme throughout Scripture, as seen in passages like Isaiah 61:8, where God declares His love for justice. This love for justice is not merely a preference but a fundamental aspect of His character, influencing how He interacts with humanity. The concept of justice in the ancient Near East was crucial, as kings were expected to uphold laws and ensure fairness among their people. This phrase also foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who embodies divine justice and will ultimately establish His kingdom of righteousness.

You have established equity;
This part of the verse highlights God's role in creating a balanced and fair order in the world. "Equity" refers to fairness and impartiality, suggesting that God's governance is marked by these qualities. In biblical history, the establishment of equity was a key responsibility of leaders, as seen in the reigns of kings like David and Solomon, who were known for their wise and just rule. The establishment of equity is also a prophetic theme, pointing to the Messianic age when Christ will reign with perfect justice and fairness, as prophesied in Isaiah 9:7. This phrase reassures believers that God's rule is characterized by fairness and that He is actively working to maintain balance and justice in the world.

You have exercised justice and righteousness in Jacob.
This phrase underscores God's active role in implementing justice and righteousness among His people, Israel, often referred to as "Jacob" in Scripture. The use of "Jacob" connects this divine action to the covenantal relationship God established with the patriarchs and their descendants. Throughout Israel's history, God consistently called His people to live justly and righteously, as seen in the Law given through Moses and the messages of the prophets. Justice and righteousness are often paired in Scripture, indicating a comprehensive approach to moral and ethical living. This phrase also points to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies and exercises justice and righteousness. His life and teachings provide the model for believers to follow, and His sacrificial death and resurrection ensure the ultimate establishment of justice and righteousness for all who trust in Him.

Exalt the LORD our God
This phrase calls for the elevation and glorification of God, emphasizing His supreme authority and majesty. The term "exalt" suggests lifting up or placing in a position of honor, which is a common theme throughout the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 34:3, Psalm 99:9). The use of "our God" indicates a personal relationship and covenantal bond between God and His people, reminiscent of the covenant with Israel (Exodus 6:7). This phrase encourages believers to recognize God's sovereignty and respond with reverence and adoration.

and worship at His footstool
The "footstool" is a metaphorical reference to the earth or the temple, where God's presence dwells (Isaiah 66:1, 1 Chronicles 28:2). In ancient Near Eastern culture, a footstool was a symbol of subjugation and authority, indicating that God reigns over all creation. Worshiping at His footstool implies humility and submission before God's throne, acknowledging His dominion. This imagery is also seen in the context of the Ark of the Covenant, which was considered God's earthly throne (Psalm 132:7). The call to worship here is an invitation to enter into God's presence with awe and reverence.

He is holy!
The declaration of God's holiness is central to understanding His nature. Holiness signifies God's absolute purity, moral perfection, and separation from sin. This attribute sets God apart from all creation and is a recurring theme in the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 99:3, Psalm 22:3). The holiness of God demands a response of worship and reverence from His people. In the broader biblical narrative, God's holiness is a foundational aspect of His character, as seen in the visions of Isaiah (Isaiah 6:3) and John (Revelation 4:8). The holiness of God also points to the need for atonement and purification, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who embodies God's holiness and provides a way for believers to be reconciled to God (Hebrews 10:10).

Moses and Aaron were among His priests;
Moses and Aaron are central figures in the history of Israel, serving as leaders during the Exodus. Moses, though not a priest in the traditional sense, acted as a mediator between God and the people, similar to a priestly role. Aaron, his brother, was the first high priest, establishing the Aaronic priesthood. This phrase highlights their unique positions in serving God and leading the Israelites. The priestly role involved offering sacrifices and interceding for the people, which Moses and Aaron did during their leadership. This connection emphasizes the importance of faithful leadership and obedience to God's commands.

Samuel was among those who called on His name.
Samuel, a prophet and judge, played a crucial role in Israel's history, bridging the period between the judges and the monarchy. Known for his dedication to God from a young age, Samuel's life was marked by prayer and direct communication with God. His calling on God's name signifies his reliance on divine guidance and his role as an intercessor for the people. Samuel's leadership was characterized by his commitment to God's will, and he was instrumental in anointing the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David. This phrase underscores the power of prayer and the importance of seeking God's guidance.

They called to the LORD and He answered.
This statement reflects the faithfulness of God in responding to those who earnestly seek Him. Throughout the Bible, God is depicted as a responsive and compassionate deity who listens to the prayers of His people. The experiences of Moses, Aaron, and Samuel demonstrate that God answers those who call upon Him in sincerity and truth. This assurance of divine response is a recurring theme in Scripture, encouraging believers to maintain a strong prayer life. The phrase also points to the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God promises to be attentive to His people's needs and concerns.

He spoke to them from the pillar of cloud;
This phrase refers to God's communication with the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The pillar of cloud was a visible manifestation of God's presence and guidance, as seen in Exodus 13:21-22. It provided direction by day and transformed into a pillar of fire by night. This theophany signifies God's direct involvement with His people, emphasizing His role as a guide and protector. The cloud also represents God's holiness and mystery, as it often concealed His full glory from the people, protecting them from His overwhelming presence. This mode of communication underscores the intimate relationship between God and Israel, where He directly intervenes in their history.

they kept His decrees
The decrees refer to the laws and commandments given by God to the Israelites, primarily through Moses. These decrees were part of the covenant relationship established at Mount Sinai, as detailed in Exodus 19-24. Keeping these decrees was a sign of Israel's obedience and faithfulness to God. The emphasis on obedience highlights the conditional nature of the covenant, where blessings were contingent upon Israel's adherence to God's laws. This obedience is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, with blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28 as consequences of their faithfulness or rebellion.

and the statutes He gave them.
Statutes are specific laws or ordinances that God provided to govern the moral, ceremonial, and civil aspects of Israelite life. These statutes were designed to set Israel apart as a holy nation, distinct from surrounding peoples. They covered various aspects of daily life, including worship, justice, and social relations, as seen in Leviticus and Deuteronomy. The giving of statutes reflects God's desire for order and righteousness among His people. In a broader biblical context, these statutes foreshadow the coming of Christ, who fulfills the law (Matthew 5:17) and establishes a new covenant based on grace and truth.

O LORD our God, You answered them.
This phrase acknowledges the personal relationship between God and His people, emphasizing His responsiveness to their prayers. In the context of Psalm 99, "them" refers to figures like Moses, Aaron, and Samuel, who interceded for Israel (Psalm 99:6). This highlights God's faithfulness in responding to the cries of His chosen leaders. The historical context includes the wilderness period and the establishment of Israel's priesthood, where God frequently communicated His will and guidance. This responsiveness is echoed in other scriptures, such as 1 Samuel 7:9, where God answers Samuel's plea for Israel. It also foreshadows the New Testament assurance in 1 John 5:14-15 that God hears and answers prayers according to His will.

You were a forgiving God to them,
This phrase underscores God's mercy and willingness to forgive the sins of His people. The historical context includes numerous instances where Israel sinned, yet God showed mercy, such as the golden calf incident (Exodus 32) and the rebellion at Kadesh (Numbers 14). Forgiveness is a central theme throughout the Bible, pointing to the ultimate forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ. The sacrificial system in the Old Testament, particularly the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16), prefigures Christ's atoning sacrifice, which provides complete forgiveness for believers (Hebrews 9:11-14). This phrase reassures believers of God's enduring grace and readiness to forgive when they repent.

yet an avenger of their misdeeds.
This phrase highlights God's justice and the consequences of sin. While God is forgiving, He is also righteous and must address wrongdoing. The historical context includes instances where God disciplined Israel for their disobedience, such as the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 7-12) and the Babylonian exile (2 Kings 25). This duality of forgiveness and justice is seen throughout scripture, emphasizing that God's holiness requires Him to address sin. In the New Testament, this is fulfilled in Christ, who bore the penalty for sin, satisfying God's justice (Romans 3:25-26). This phrase serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance, while also pointing to the hope of redemption through Christ.

Exalt the LORD our God
This phrase calls for the elevation and glorification of God, emphasizing His supreme authority and majesty. The act of exalting God is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms, reflecting the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty. In biblical context, exalting God involves both verbal praise and a lifestyle that honors Him. This aligns with the first commandment, which calls for exclusive devotion to God (Exodus 20:3). The use of "our God" indicates a personal relationship and covenantal bond between God and His people, reminiscent of the covenant established with Israel at Sinai (Exodus 19:5-6).

and worship at His holy mountain
The "holy mountain" refers to Mount Zion, the location of the temple in Jerusalem, which was considered the dwelling place of God among His people. Worship at this site was central to Jewish religious life, as it was where sacrifices were offered and festivals celebrated. The mountain symbolizes God's presence and His chosen place for worship (Psalm 48:1-2). This phrase also foreshadows the New Testament understanding of worship, where Jesus speaks of worshiping "in spirit and truth" (John 4:23-24), indicating that true worship transcends physical locations.

for the LORD our God is holy
The holiness of God is a fundamental attribute, signifying His purity, separateness, and moral perfection. This holiness demands reverence and awe from His people. The declaration of God's holiness is a central theme in the Bible, seen in the seraphim's cry in Isaiah 6:3, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty." God's holiness is also a call for His people to be holy, as seen in Leviticus 19:2, "Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy." This phrase underscores the reason for worship and exaltation, as God's holiness is both a source of comfort and a standard for His followers.