Topical Encyclopedia The cherubim are a class of angelic beings frequently mentioned in the Bible, known for their close proximity to the divine presence and their role in God's heavenly court. They are often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces and as bearers of God's glory. The term "cherubim" is the plural form of "cherub," and these beings are described in various passages throughout the Scriptures, each highlighting different aspects of their nature and function.Biblical Descriptions and Roles The first mention of cherubim is found in Genesis 3:24, where they are stationed at the east of the Garden of Eden, "with a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life" . This initial depiction establishes their role as protectors of divine sanctity, preventing humanity from re-entering the garden after the Fall. In the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, cherubim are prominently featured. Exodus 25:18-22 describes the design of the Ark of the Covenant, where two cherubim of gold are to be crafted and placed on the mercy seat. Their wings are to be spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat, and their faces are to be turned toward it. This imagery signifies their role as guardians of God's covenant and His presence, as the Lord declares, "There I will meet with you and speak with you from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim" (Exodus 25:22). The prophet Ezekiel provides one of the most detailed descriptions of cherubim, particularly in his vision of the divine chariot in Ezekiel 1 and 10. In these chapters, the cherubim are described as having four faces—those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle—and four wings. Their appearance is like burning coals of fire, and they move with the speed of lightning. Ezekiel 1:12 states, "Each creature went straight ahead. Wherever the spirit would go, they would go, without turning as they moved" . This passage emphasizes their animation by the Spirit of God, indicating that their movements and actions are directed by His divine will. Symbolism and Theological Significance The cherubim are often associated with the holiness and majesty of God. Their presence in the Holy of Holies, both in the Tabernacle and the Temple, underscores the sacredness of these spaces and the reverence due to God. The imagery of the cherubim in Ezekiel's vision further illustrates their role as bearers of God's glory and executors of His divine purposes. In Revelation 4:6-8, the cherubim, or "living creatures," are depicted around the throne of God, continuously worshiping Him and proclaiming His holiness: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come!" . This eternal worship highlights their function as perpetual witnesses to God's glory and sovereignty. Cherubim in Christian Thought Throughout Christian history, cherubim have been regarded as symbols of divine wisdom and knowledge. Their multifaceted appearance in Ezekiel's vision is often interpreted as representing the fullness of creation and the comprehensive nature of God's dominion. The cherubim's animation by the Spirit of God serves as a reminder of the divine guidance and empowerment that believers seek in their own lives. In art and literature, cherubim are frequently depicted as majestic and awe-inspiring, reflecting their biblical portrayal as powerful and holy beings. Their role as guardians and worshipers of God continues to inspire reverence and devotion among Christians, reminding them of the majesty and holiness of the God they serve. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 1:12,20And they went every one straight forward: where the spirit was to go, they went; and they turned not when they went. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Language of the New Testament. 1 in the Character of the Original ... The Holy Spirit and the Incarnation of the Word. ... Argument. --It is this God, Therefore, that the Church Has Known ... Saurin -- Paul Before Felix and Drusilla The Four Gospels. The First Part In the Creation of the World, and all Things in It, the True God ... Selections from the Work against Heresies by Irenaeus, Bishop of ... The General Service to Two or Many Monk Martyrs. Soldier Priests Resources What are cherubim? Are cherubs angels? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God have the cherubim guard just the east side of Eden (Genesis 3:24)? | GotQuestions.org What is the hierarchy of angels? | 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 |
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