Exo 25:22, Psa 80:1, 99:1 | JFB | STEP | 22. there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat-- The Shekinah, or symbol of the Divine Presence, rested on the mercy seat, and was indicated by a cloud, from the midst of which responses were audibly given when God was consulted on behalf of His people. Hence God is described as "dwelling" or "sitting" between the cherubim.

‏ Exodus 25:22

22. there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat--The Shekinah, or symbol of the Divine Presence, rested on the mercy seat, and was indicated by a cloud, from the midst of which responses were audibly given when God was consulted on behalf of His people. Hence God is described as "dwelling" or "sitting" between the cherubim.

‏ Psalms 80:1

PSALM 80

Psa 80:1-19. Shoshannim--"Lilies" (see on Psa 45:1, title). Eduth--Testimony, referring to the topic as a testimony of God to His people (compare Psa 19:7). This Psalm probably relates to the captivity of the ten tribes, as the former to that of Judah. Its complaint is aggravated by the contrast of former prosperity, and the prayer for relief occurs as a refrain through the Psalm.

1-2. Joseph--for Ephraim (1Ch 7:20-29; Psa 78:67; Re 7:8), for Israel.

Shepherd--(Compare Ge 49:24).

leadest, &c.--(Psa 77:20).

dwellest ... cherubim--(Ex 25:20); the place of God's visible glory, whence He communed with the people (He 9:5).

shine forth--appear (Psa 50:2; 94:1).

‏ Psalms 99:1

PSALM 99

Psa 99:1-9. God's government is especially exercised in and for His Church, which should praise Him for His gracious dealings.

1. sitteth ... cherubim--(compare 1Sa 4:4; Psa 80:1).

tremble ... be moved--inspired with fear by His judgments on the wicked.