Adam Clarke's Bible Commentary Verse 1. The Lord reigneth ] See the note on Psa. xcvii. 1.
Let the people tremble ] He will establish his kingdom in spite of his enemies; let those who oppose him tremble for the consequences.
He sitteth between the cherubims ] This is in reference to the ark, at each end of which was a cherub of glory; and the shechinah, or symbol of the Divine Presence, appeared on the lid of the ark, called also the mercy-seat, between the cherubim. Sitting between the cherubim implies God's graciousness and mercy. While then, in his reign, he was terrible to sinners, he is on the throne of grace to all who fear love, and obey him. Though this symbol were not in the second temple, yet the Divine Being might very well be thus denominated, because it had become one of his titles, he having thus appeared under the tabernacle and first temple.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-5 - God governs the world by his providence, governs the church by his grace, and both by his Son. The inhabitants of the earth have cause to tremble, but the Redeemer still waits to be gracious. Let all who hear take warning, and seek his mercy. The more we humble ourselves befor God, the more we exalt him; and let us be thus reverent, for he is holy.
Original Hebrew יהוה3068 מלך4427 ירגזו7264 עמים5971 ישׁב3427 כרובים3742 תנוט5120 הארץ׃776
