Psalms 99:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 99:6
6 Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among them that call upon his name; they called upon the LORD, and he answered them.
Chapter Context
Psalms 99 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, righteousness, hope. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-9: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 99:6
6 Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among them that call upon his name; they called upon the LORD, and he answered them.
Analysis
Moses, Aaron, and Samuel exemplify leaders who 'called upon' God and received answers, demonstrating that God responds to His servants. These three represent different offices—prophet (Moses), priest (Aaron), and prophet-judge (Samuel)—showing that God hears various types of leaders. The phrase 'he answered them' (ya'anem) emphasizes God's responsiveness to prayer. This verse establishes the principle that God's holiness doesn't make Him distant but rather invites relationship through proper approach. Their intercession prefigures Christ's priestly mediation.
Historical Context
Moses interceded for Israel (Exodus 32), Aaron made atonement (Numbers 16:48), and Samuel prayed for the nation (1 Samuel 7:9)—all demonstrating God's faithfulness to answer prayer.
Reflection
- How do the examples of Moses, Aaron, and Samuel encourage you to bold intercession on behalf of others?
- What can you learn from these leaders about the kind of relationship with God that results in answered prayer?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 14:15, 15:25, Jeremiah 15:1