Exodus 25:22

And I will meet with you there above the mercy seat, between the two cherubim that are over the ark of the Testimony; I will speak with you about all that I command you regarding the Israelites.

Study Bible

And there I will meet with you
This phrase signifies the divine promise of God's presence. The Hebrew root for "meet" is "יָעַד" (ya'ad), which implies an appointed meeting or a designated time and place. This highlights the intentionality of God in establishing a relationship with His people. Historically, this meeting place is the Mercy Seat atop the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's willingness to dwell among His people and engage with them directly. It is a profound reminder of God's desire for communion with humanity, a theme that resonates throughout the Scriptures.

and I will speak with you
The Hebrew word for "speak" is "דָּבַר" (dabar), which conveys not just casual conversation but authoritative communication. This underscores the importance of divine revelation and guidance. In the context of the Israelites, it was through Moses that God communicated His laws and commandments, shaping the moral and spiritual framework of the nation. This phrase assures believers of God's ongoing communication and guidance, emphasizing the importance of listening to His voice through Scripture and prayer.

from above the mercy seat
The "mercy seat" (Hebrew: "כַּפֹּרֶת" - kapporet) is the cover of the Ark of the Covenant, where the presence of God was believed to dwell. It is a place of atonement, where the high priest would sprinkle the blood of the sacrifice on the Day of Atonement. This symbolizes God's mercy and forgiveness, foreshadowing the ultimate atonement through Christ. The mercy seat represents the intersection of divine justice and mercy, where God meets humanity not in wrath, but in grace.

from between the two cherubim
Cherubim are angelic beings that symbolize the holiness and majesty of God. In the ancient Near Eastern context, they are often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces. The presence of the cherubim on the Ark signifies the sacredness of God's dwelling place and His unapproachable holiness. Yet, it is between these symbols of divine majesty that God chooses to communicate with His people, illustrating the accessibility of God despite His transcendence.

that are on the ark of the testimony
The "ark of the testimony" refers to the Ark of the Covenant, which contained the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. The term "testimony" (Hebrew: "עֵדוּת" - edut) signifies a witness or evidence of God's covenant with Israel. The Ark serves as a tangible reminder of God's promises and His faithfulness. It is a central element in Israel's worship and identity, symbolizing God's enduring presence and covenantal relationship with His people.

I will meet with you there
This reiteration emphasizes the certainty and consistency of God's promise. The repetition underscores the importance of the location and the act of meeting. It reassures the Israelites of God's unwavering commitment to be present with them. For believers today, it serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the assurance that He is always willing to meet us where we are, offering guidance, comfort, and communion.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The speaker in this verse, promising to meet and communicate with Moses.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who receives God's instructions.

3. Mercy Seat
The cover of the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's throne and presence.

4. Cherubim
Angelic beings positioned on the mercy seat, representing divine guardianship.

5. Ark of the Testimony
A sacred chest containing the tablets of the Law, symbolizing God's covenant with Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Presence
The mercy seat signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. As believers, we are called to seek His presence in our daily lives through prayer and worship.

Divine Communication
God speaks to Moses from the mercy seat, illustrating the importance of listening to God's voice. We should prioritize reading Scripture and being attentive to the Holy Spirit's guidance.

Atonement and Mercy
The mercy seat is central to the concept of atonement. Jesus, our ultimate high priest, has made a way for us to approach God with confidence, knowing our sins are forgiven.

Holiness and Reverence
The Ark and the mercy seat were sacred, reminding us to approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His holiness and majesty.

Covenant Relationship
The Ark of the Testimony represents God's covenant with Israel. As Christians, we are part of the new covenant through Christ, called to live in obedience and faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the mercy seat in Exodus 25:22 enhance your understanding of God's presence in your life today?

2. In what ways can you cultivate a deeper awareness of God's voice and guidance, as Moses experienced at the mercy seat?

3. How does the role of the cherubim in this passage reflect the nature of God's holiness and protection?

4. What parallels can you draw between the mercy seat and the work of Christ as described in the book of Hebrews?

5. How can the understanding of God's covenant with Israel through the Ark of the Testimony inspire you to live out your faith in the context of the new covenant?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 16
Describes the Day of Atonement, where the high priest enters the Holy of Holies and sprinkles blood on the mercy seat, highlighting the significance of atonement and God's presence.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and the role of Christ as the high priest, drawing parallels between the Old Testament tabernacle and the heavenly reality.

Psalm 80
Refers to God as enthroned between the cherubim, emphasizing His sovereign rule and presence among His people.

John 1
Describes Jesus as the Word made flesh, dwelling among us, fulfilling the promise of God's presence with His people.