What is the meaning of Ezekiel 10:3? Now when the man went in - The “man” is the linen-clad figure first seen in Ezekiel 9:2–3, entrusted with heavenly tasks. - He steps back into view here to collect burning coals (Ezekiel 10:2) that will be scattered over Jerusalem in judgment—echoing Isaiah 6:6–7, where a coal purified Isaiah’s lips. - Similar clothed messengers appear in Daniel 10:5 and Revelation 1:13, underscoring that God often works through angelic servants to carry out His will. - The action reminds us that God’s court is orderly; judgment is never random (Genesis 18:25). the cherubim were standing on the south side of the temple - Cherubim are throne-bearers and guardians of holiness (Genesis 3:24; Exodus 25:18-20; Ezekiel 1:5-14). - Their position “on the south side” signals movement. The glory that once entered through the east gate (Ezekiel 43:4) is now edging toward departure (Ezekiel 10:18-19; 11:23). - Southward stance may also face the city’s populous areas, highlighting that judgment will fall on the people, not just the structure (Jeremiah 7:4). - God’s presence remains perfectly just; His cherubim stand ready, neither abandoning their post nor excusing sin (Psalm 99:1). and a cloud filled the inner court - The cloud is the visible sign of God’s glory—first seen on Sinai (Exodus 19:9), later filling the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-35) and Solomon’s temple (1 Kings 8:10-11). - Here, the same glory fills the court, yet the context has shifted from blessing to impending departure. Ezekiel 10:4 notes that the cloud soon lifts from the cherubim to the threshold, a heartbreaking reversal of earlier indwelling. - This thick cloud both conceals and reveals: it shields sinful eyes (Isaiah 6:4) while warning that holiness cannot coexist with persistent rebellion (Romans 1:18). - Revelation 15:8 shows a similar scene where a cloud of glory precedes final judgments—reminding us that God’s presence is awesome whether in mercy or in wrath. summary Ezekiel 10:3 captures a pivotal instant: God’s appointed messenger enters, cherubim stand ready, and the glory-cloud floods the inner court. Together these details announce that the holy God, once thrilled to dwell among His people, is now preparing to withdraw because of their unrepentant sin. The verse is a solemn call to recognize His majesty, heed His warnings, and seek the cleansing only He can provide. |
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