Topical Encyclopedia In the prophetic book of Ezekiel, the cherubim play a significant role, particularly in the vision of the temple described in chapters 40-48. Ezekiel, a priest and prophet during the Babylonian exile, receives a series of visions that reveal God's glory and the future restoration of Israel. The cherubim are central to these visions, symbolizing divine presence, holiness, and the majesty of God.Ezekiel's Vision of the Temple Ezekiel's vision of the temple begins in chapter 40, where he is transported in a vision to the land of Israel and set on a very high mountain. There, he sees a structure resembling a city. An angelic figure, described as a man whose appearance was like bronze, guides Ezekiel through the temple complex, providing detailed measurements and descriptions of its features. The Role of Cherubim The cherubim are prominently featured in the temple's design, particularly in the inner sanctuary, known as the Most Holy Place. In Ezekiel 41:18-20 , the walls of the temple are adorned with carvings of cherubim and palm trees: "And it was made with cherubim and palm trees, so that a palm tree was between cherub and cherub. Every cherub had two faces: the face of a man toward the palm tree on one side and the face of a young lion toward the palm tree on the other side. Thus it was made throughout the temple all around. From the floor to the space above the entrance, cherubim and palm trees were carved on the wall of the main hall." These carvings are not merely decorative but serve to remind the Israelites of the cherubim's role in the divine order. The cherubim, with their dual faces of a man and a lion, symbolize both intelligence and strength, attributes associated with God's sovereignty and protection. Symbolism and Significance The presence of cherubim in the temple vision underscores the holiness and separateness of God. In the broader biblical narrative, cherubim are often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces. For instance, in Genesis 3:24, cherubim are stationed at the east of the Garden of Eden to guard the way to the tree of life. Similarly, in the tabernacle and Solomon's temple, cherubim are positioned over the Ark of the Covenant, signifying God's throne and His dwelling among His people. In Ezekiel's vision, the cherubim also serve as a reminder of God's promise to restore His people and dwell among them once more. The intricate design of the temple, with its cherubim and palm trees, points to a future where God's presence is fully realized in the midst of His people, a theme that resonates with the hope of redemption and restoration. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the cherubim in Ezekiel's vision highlight the transcendence and immanence of God. They emphasize His holiness and the reverence due to Him, while also pointing to His desire to be present with His people. The vision of the temple, with its detailed descriptions and symbolic imagery, serves as a powerful reminder of God's covenant faithfulness and the ultimate hope of His eternal kingdom. Ezekiel's vision, with its rich symbolism and prophetic insight, continues to inspire and challenge believers to seek a deeper understanding of God's holiness and His redemptive plan for humanity. The cherubim, as part of this vision, remain a testament to the glory and majesty of the Almighty. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 41:18-20,25And it was made with cherubim and palm trees, so that a palm tree was between a cherub and a cherub; and every cherub had two faces; Nave's Topical Index Library Ezekiel's vision (Preached Before the Queen at Windsor, June 16 ... The River of Life The Figurative Language of Scripture. An Advance Step in the Royal Programme Index of Subjects. John. Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... Resources What were the wheels in Ezekiel 1? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the Holy of Holies? | GotQuestions.org How many angels are there? | GotQuestions.org Cherubim: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Cherubim in Ezekiel's Vision of the Temple Cherubim of Gold: Formed out of, and at Each End of the Mercy Seat Cherubim of Gold: God's Presence Manifested Between Cherubim of Gold: Placed Over the Ark of the Covenant Cherubim of Gold: The Oracles or Answers of God Delivered from Between Cherubim: Animated by the Spirit of God Cherubim: Called the Cherubim of Glory Cherubim: Eastward of the Garden of Eden Cherubim: Engaged in Accomplishing the Purposes of God Cherubim: Figures of On the Curtain Cherubim: Figures of On the Lavers Cherubim: Figures of On the Walls Cherubim: Figures of, Embroidered: And on the Curtain Cherubim: Figures of, Embroidered: On the Walls of the Tabernacle Cherubim: Form and Appearance of Cherubim: Placed at the Entrance of Eden Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Bases of Brazen Lavers Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Curtains of the Tabernacle Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Doors of the Temple Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Vail of the Tabernacle Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Vail of the Temple Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Walls of the Temple Cherubim: Riding On, Illustrative of Majesty and Power of God Cherubim: Sound of Their Wings Was As the Voice of God Cherubim: The Ark of the Covenant Rested Beneath the Wings of Cherubim: The Glory of God Exhibited Upon Related Terms |