Psalm 93 Study Notes

93:1-2 The first two Hebrew words of this psalm are Yahweh malak. This phrase is also found at the beginning of Pss 97 and 99 and in v. 10 of Ps 96. Malak, the Hebrew word for reigns, is a verb form implying completed action or an established condition. Reference to the beginning and eternity means the Lord’s kingship is timeless. On robed in majesty, see note at 104:1 (see Is 51:9; 59:17). The Lord established (“measured, regulated”) the world, and the order of the cosmos is not subject to disruptions. To be shaken often occurs in texts that describe the impotence of false gods (Is 54:10). The term reinforces the reliability of the Lord’s character and his commitment to creation (Ps 96:10; 99:1; 104:5).

93:3-4 The psalmist personified primeval forces that threatened creation and then demonstrated the Lord’s sovereignty over them. Concerning on high, compare 7:7; 68:16; 144:7.

93:5 God’s testimonies or decrees are as stable as his throne and the earth (19:8; 25:10; 99:7; 132:12; Dt 4:45; 6:17,20). Adorns refers to a suitable decoration (“beautiful” in Sg 1:10).