Ezekiel 28:14

You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for I had ordained you. You were on the holy mountain of God; you walked among the fiery stones.

Study Bible

You were anointed as a guardian cherub
This phrase refers to a high-ranking angelic being, a cherub, who was given a special role. In biblical context, cherubim are often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces, such as the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:24) and the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:18-22). The anointing signifies a divine appointment, indicating a position of honor and responsibility. This passage is often interpreted as a reference to the King of Tyre, but also seen as a symbolic representation of Satan before his fall, highlighting his original exalted status.

for I had ordained you
The ordination implies a deliberate and purposeful act by God, establishing the cherub's role and authority. This reflects the biblical theme of divine sovereignty and the intentional design of God's creation. The ordination underscores the idea that the cherub's position was not self-appointed but granted by God, emphasizing accountability to the Creator.

You were on the holy mountain of God
The "holy mountain of God" is a symbolic representation of God's presence and authority. In biblical literature, mountains often signify places of divine revelation and encounter, such as Mount Sinai (Exodus 19) and Mount Zion (Psalm 48:1-2). This imagery suggests a place of closeness to God, where the cherub had access to divine wisdom and glory. It also connects to the idea of Eden as a mountain sanctuary, a place of initial perfection and communion with God.

you walked among the fiery stones
The "fiery stones" are often interpreted as a metaphor for the divine presence and the purity and holiness associated with it. Walking among them suggests an intimate relationship with God and access to His glory. This imagery may also evoke the vision of God's throne room, as described in Ezekiel 1:26-28, where fire and brilliance are prominent. The phrase underscores the cherub's privileged position and the splendor of the divine environment he inhabited.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Guardian Cherub
A high-ranking angelic being, often associated with protection and worship in the presence of God. In this context, it symbolizes a being of great beauty and privilege.

2. Holy Mount of God
This refers to a place of divine presence and authority, often associated with God's dwelling, such as Mount Zion or the heavenly realm.

3. Fiery Stones
These are symbolic of the divine and holy presence of God, possibly representing purity, holiness, and the consuming fire of God's presence.

4. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who conveyed messages of judgment and restoration to the people of Israel during their exile in Babylon.

5. King of Tyre
The immediate context of this passage is a lament against the King of Tyre, who is metaphorically compared to a fallen cherub due to his pride and eventual downfall.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
Pride can lead to downfall, as seen in the King of Tyre and the symbolic cherub. Believers must guard their hearts against pride and seek humility.

The Privilege of God's Presence
Being in God's presence is a privilege that should not be taken for granted. We are called to live lives that honor this privilege through obedience and worship.

Spiritual Warfare
The imagery of the guardian cherub reminds us of the reality of spiritual warfare. We must be vigilant and rely on God's strength to stand firm against spiritual pride and rebellion.

God's Sovereignty and Judgment
God is sovereign and just. He ordains roles and responsibilities, and He will judge those who misuse their positions of authority and privilege.

Restoration and Hope
Despite the themes of judgment, God's ultimate plan includes restoration and hope for those who turn back to Him in repentance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the "guardian cherub" in Ezekiel 28:14 help us understand the nature of pride and its consequences?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we remain humble and obedient in our walk with God, avoiding the pitfalls of pride seen in the King of Tyre?

3. How does the concept of "walking among the fiery stones" challenge us to live lives that reflect the holiness and purity of God?

4. What lessons can we learn from the fall of the King of Tyre that apply to our roles and responsibilities in our personal and professional lives?

5. How do the themes of judgment and restoration in Ezekiel 28:14 encourage us to seek God's presence and guidance in times of spiritual struggle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 14
This passage also uses the imagery of a fallen being, often interpreted as a reference to the fall of Satan, drawing parallels to the pride and fall of the King of Tyre.

Revelation 12
Describes the fall of Satan and his angels, connecting the theme of pride and rebellion against God.

Genesis 3
The fall of man due to pride and disobedience, echoing the themes of rebellion and the consequences of sin.