Ezekiel 10:18

Then the glory of the LORD moved away from the threshold of the temple and stood above the cherubim.

Study Bible

Then the glory of the LORD
The "glory of the LORD" refers to the visible manifestation of God's presence, often associated with light and majesty. In the Old Testament, this glory is frequently linked to the Shekinah, the divine presence that dwelt in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. This glory signifies God's holiness and power, and its movement indicates a significant shift in divine activity or presence. The glory of the LORD is a central theme in Ezekiel, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the seriousness of Israel's sin.

moved away from the threshold of the temple
The movement of God's glory from the temple's threshold symbolizes a departure of His presence due to the people's persistent idolatry and rebellion. The threshold is a significant part of the temple, representing the boundary between the sacred and the profane. This departure is a precursor to the coming judgment and exile, highlighting the severity of Israel's spiritual state. The temple, once the dwelling place of God among His people, is now being abandoned, signifying a breach in the covenant relationship.

and stood above the cherubim
The cherubim are angelic beings associated with the presence and throne of God, often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces. In Ezekiel's vision, they are part of the divine chariot-throne, symbolizing God's mobility and sovereignty over all creation. The positioning of God's glory above the cherubim indicates His supreme authority and readiness to execute judgment. This imagery connects to the Ark of the Covenant, where cherubim were also present, emphasizing continuity in God's revelation and presence from the Tabernacle to the Temple.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Glory of the LORD
Represents God's divine presence and majesty, often depicted as a radiant light or cloud. In this context, it signifies God's presence departing from the temple.

2. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites in Jerusalem, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people. The departure of God's glory indicates a significant spiritual and national crisis.

3. The Cherubim
Angelic beings associated with the presence and throne of God. In Ezekiel's vision, they are depicted as carrying the glory of God, emphasizing their role as divine attendants.

4. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites. His visions often contain symbolic imagery conveying God's judgment and future restoration.

5. The Threshold
The entrance of the temple, symbolizing the boundary between the sacred and the profane. The movement of God's glory from this point signifies a withdrawal of His presence from the people.

Teaching Points

The Significance of God's Presence
God's presence is central to the life and worship of His people. The departure of His glory from the temple serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience.

The Role of the Temple
The temple was not just a physical structure but a symbol of God's covenant relationship with Israel. Its desecration and the departure of God's glory reflect a broken relationship that needs restoration.

The Importance of Holiness
The movement of God's glory away from the temple underscores the necessity of holiness and reverence in worship. It challenges believers to examine their own lives and the purity of their worship.

Hope for Restoration
While Ezekiel's vision depicts judgment, it also points to the hope of restoration. God's ultimate plan includes the return of His presence, fulfilled in Christ and the promise of the New Jerusalem.

The Role of Prophetic Vision
Ezekiel's vision serves as both a warning and a promise. It encourages believers to heed God's warnings and trust in His promises for future restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the departure of God's glory from the temple signify about the spiritual state of Israel at that time?

2. How does the role of the cherubim in Ezekiel's vision compare to their role in other parts of Scripture, such as Genesis and Revelation?

3. In what ways can the church today ensure that it remains a place where God's presence dwells?

4. How does the concept of God's glory departing challenge us to reflect on our personal and communal worship practices?

5. What hope does Ezekiel's vision offer for believers today, and how does it connect to the promises found in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40
Describes the glory of the LORD filling the tabernacle, highlighting the significance of God's presence among His people.

1 Samuel 4
The departure of the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's presence, parallels the departure of God's glory in Ezekiel.

Revelation 21
The ultimate restoration of God's presence with His people, contrasting the departure in Ezekiel with the promise of eternal communion.