What significance do the cherubim hold in 2 Chronicles 3:13? Setting the Scene in Solomon’s Temple • Solomon is building the inner sanctuary of the temple to house the ark of the covenant (2 Chron 3:8–10). • Two massive, gold-covered cherubim dominate the Most Holy Place, each with wings outstretched. What 2 Chronicles 3:13 Tells Us “The wings of these cherubim spanned twenty cubits; they stood on their feet, facing the temple.” • Twenty cubits = roughly thirty feet, meaning their wings touch wall to wall. • They stand upright, not kneeling, signifying readiness and strength. • They face outward toward the Holy Place, visually extending the holiness of God from the inner room to the worshipers beyond. Symbol of God’s Throne and Presence • Throughout Scripture, cherubim flank the throne of God: – Exodus 25:18–22 — cherubim on the mercy seat where God says, “There I will meet with you.” – Psalm 80:1; Psalm 99:1 — God is “enthroned between the cherubim.” • In Solomon’s temple, the two towering figures form an earthly representation of that heavenly throne, stressing that the Lord truly dwells among His people. A Picture of Guarded Holiness • Genesis 3:24 — cherubim guard Eden after the fall, preventing sinful humanity from re-entering paradise. • In the temple they still guard sacred space, underscoring the danger of casual approach to a holy God (Leviticus 16:2). • Their imposing size preaches that holiness is no small matter. Echoes of Eden Restored in Worship • Eden had been closed, but God now makes a way back into fellowship through the sacrificial system. • The cherubim stand not as barriers but as welcoming sentinels because atonement blood will be sprinkled before them (2 Chron 5:7). • Worship inside the temple signals that God’s original intent for intimate presence with humanity is being re-opened, pointing forward to ultimate restoration (Revelation 21:3). Call to Awe and Reverence • Their twenty-cubit wingspan fills worshipers with wonder; grandeur communicates God’s majesty. • Upright posture reminds Israel of divine vigilance—He sees, He hears, He acts (2 Chron 6:20). • Outward gaze encourages continual mindfulness that life outside the sanctuary must reflect the holiness celebrated within. Foreshadowing of Christ’s Mediatorial Work • Hebrews 9:4–5 links the mercy seat’s cherubim to the atonement fulfilled in Christ. • At the empty tomb, two angels sit where Jesus’ body had lain (John 20:12), mirroring cherubim at the mercy seat and declaring finished redemption. • The temple cherubim anticipate the day when the veil will be torn and access to God will be opened fully through Jesus (Matthew 27:51). Practical Takeaways for Today • Approach God with a balance of boldness and reverence—He remains holy yet invites nearness through Christ. • Let worship spaces and practices reflect God’s majesty, stirring hearts toward awe rather than casual indifference. • Remember that God’s presence extends beyond any building; the cherubim faced outward, reminding us to carry His holiness into daily life. |
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