Ezekiel 10:20

These were the living creatures I had seen beneath the God of Israel by the River Kebar, and I knew that they were cherubim.

Study Bible

These were the living creatures
The "living creatures" refer to the beings Ezekiel first encountered in his inaugural vision in Ezekiel 1. These creatures are described with extraordinary features, including multiple faces and wings, symbolizing their role as divine messengers and guardians of God's holiness. Their presence signifies the majesty and mystery of God's throne and His sovereign rule over creation.

I had seen beneath the God of Israel
This phrase emphasizes the creatures' position in relation to the divine presence. They are beneath the God of Israel, indicating their role as attendants to His throne. This imagery is consistent with other biblical depictions of heavenly beings serving in the presence of God, such as in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4. The God of Israel is a title that underscores God's covenant relationship with His people, highlighting His faithfulness and authority.

by the River Kebar
The River Kebar is a significant geographical location in Ezekiel's visions. It is a canal near Babylon where the prophet and other exiles from Judah were living. This setting underscores the context of exile and God's presence with His people even in foreign lands. The mention of the River Kebar connects Ezekiel's visions to the historical reality of the Babylonian captivity, a period of judgment and hope for restoration.

and I knew that they were cherubim
Ezekiel's recognition of the creatures as cherubim links them to the broader biblical tradition of cherubim as guardians of sacred spaces. Cherubim are first mentioned in Genesis 3:24, where they guard the way to the Tree of Life. They are also depicted on the Ark of the Covenant in Exodus 25:18-22, symbolizing God's throne and presence among His people. In Ezekiel's vision, the cherubim's role as protectors and bearers of God's glory is reaffirmed, pointing to the holiness and inaccessibility of God apart from His grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book and the one who receives the vision.

2. Living Creatures
These are the cherubim, angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God.

3. God of Israel
The one true God, Yahweh, who reveals His glory and presence through visions to Ezekiel.

4. River Kebar
A location in Babylon where Ezekiel receives his visions, symbolizing the place of exile for the Israelites.

5. Cherubim
Angelic beings that serve as guardians of God's holiness and are often depicted as part of His divine throne.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Holiness
The presence of the cherubim in Ezekiel's vision underscores the holiness and majesty of God. As believers, we are called to approach God with reverence and awe.

God's Presence in Exile
Even in exile, God reveals His presence to Ezekiel, reminding us that God is with us in our own times of trial and displacement.

Role of Angelic Beings
The cherubim serve as a reminder of the spiritual realm and the unseen forces that serve God. We should be aware of the spiritual realities that surround us.

Vision and Revelation
Ezekiel's vision teaches us that God communicates with His people in various ways. We should be open to how God might reveal Himself to us today.

Guardians of God's Glory
The cherubim's role as guardians of God's glory challenges us to protect and honor God's presence in our lives and communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the presence of the cherubim in Ezekiel's vision enhance your understanding of God's holiness?

2. In what ways can you seek to experience God's presence during difficult or "exile" periods in your life?

3. How do the roles of the cherubim in both the Old and New Testaments inform your understanding of spiritual warfare and protection?

4. What are some practical ways you can honor and protect the presence of God in your daily life?

5. How can you remain open to the different ways God might choose to reveal Himself to you today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3:24
The cherubim are first mentioned as guardians of the Garden of Eden, emphasizing their role in protecting the holiness of God.

Exodus 25:18-22
The cherubim are part of the design of the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

Revelation 4:6-8
The living creatures around God's throne in John's vision echo the description of the cherubim, highlighting their continuous worship and service to God.