Psalm 99 is a vision of God on the heavenly throne, surrounded by the mighty cherubim. In this vision, God’s feet rest on the earth–on Zion, to be exact. The temple in Zion was seen as the epicenter of God’s presence on earth. From there, God’s blessings spread throughout the whole world. The rest of the Psalm counts these blessings: justice, answered prayer, and forgiveness.
With the “nations trembling,” I could have taken a majestic or bombastic approach to Psalm 99. Instead, I decided on a more reverent interpretation, one that is filled with hushed awe at God’s presence.
All the nations tremble
at God upon the throne.
Earth begins to shake in
holy fear and joy.
Let all people bow down
in reverance and awe.
God rules over earth with
justice and with love.
Sing holy, sing holy,
sing holy to God.