Exodus 25:18

Make two cherubim of hammered gold at the ends of the mercy seat,

Study Bible

And make
The directive "And make" signifies a divine command given to Moses. The Hebrew word used here is "עָשָׂה" (asah), which means to create or fashion. This is not merely a suggestion but an imperative from God, emphasizing the importance of obedience and precision in following His instructions. The act of making is a form of worship, reflecting the Creator's own work in Genesis.

two cherubim
The "two cherubim" are angelic beings, often associated with the presence and glory of God. The Hebrew word "כְּרוּבִים" (keruvim) suggests beings of great power and majesty. In the ancient Near Eastern context, cherubim were seen as guardians of sacred spaces. Biblically, they are first mentioned in Genesis 3:24, guarding the way to the Tree of Life. Their presence on the Ark signifies the holiness and inaccessibility of God, except through His appointed means.

of hammered gold
The phrase "of hammered gold" indicates the material and method used in crafting the cherubim. Gold, in biblical symbolism, represents purity, divinity, and kingship. The Hebrew term "זָהָב" (zahav) for gold underscores its value and beauty. The process of hammering, or "מִקְשָׁה" (miqshah), implies skill and artistry, reflecting the care and devotion required in worship. This craftsmanship points to the excellence and precision God desires in His service.

at the ends
"At the ends" specifies the location of the cherubim on the mercy seat. The Hebrew word "קָצֶה" (qatseh) denotes extremities or boundaries. This placement signifies the cherubim's role as protectors and emphasizes the completeness and symmetry of God's design. It also highlights the balance between God's justice and mercy, as the cherubim flank the mercy seat where atonement is made.

of the mercy seat
The "mercy seat" is the cover of the Ark of the Covenant, known in Hebrew as "כַּפֹּרֶת" (kapporet), derived from the root "כָּפַר" (kaphar), meaning to cover or atone. This is the place where God's presence would dwell and where the high priest would sprinkle the blood of the sacrifice on the Day of Atonement. It symbolizes God's throne of grace, where mercy triumphs over judgment. The mercy seat is a profound foreshadowing of Christ's atoning work, where divine justice and mercy meet.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the Tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Cherubim
Angelic beings often associated with the presence and glory of God, depicted here as part of the Ark of the Covenant.

3. Mercy Seat
The cover of the Ark of the Covenant, representing God's throne and His presence among His people.

4. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

5. Mount Sinai
The mountain where Moses received the Law and the instructions for the Tabernacle from God.

Teaching Points

The Holiness of God
The cherubim on the mercy seat remind us of God's holiness and the reverence due to Him. We are called to approach God with awe and respect.

God's Presence Among His People
The mercy seat signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. As believers, we are assured of His presence in our lives through the Holy Spirit.

Symbolism of the Cherubim
The cherubim symbolize protection and the sacredness of God's covenant. We are reminded to guard our hearts and lives as sacred spaces for God's presence.

The Role of Obedience
Moses' adherence to God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle teaches us the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

Foreshadowing of Christ
The mercy seat, as a place of atonement, points to Jesus Christ, our ultimate atonement, who reconciles us to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the cherubim on the mercy seat reflect the nature of God's holiness and presence?

2. In what ways does the concept of the mercy seat in the Old Testament foreshadow the work of Christ in the New Testament?

3. How can we cultivate a sense of reverence and awe in our personal worship and relationship with God?

4. What does the detailed construction of the Tabernacle teach us about the importance of obedience and attention to God's instructions in our lives?

5. How can we ensure that our lives are sacred spaces for God's presence, similar to the Tabernacle for the Israelites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3:24
The cherubim are first mentioned as guardians of the Garden of Eden, symbolizing the holiness and inaccessibility of God's presence due to sin.

Hebrews 9:5
The New Testament reference to the cherubim overshadowing the mercy seat, highlighting the significance of the Ark in the Old Covenant.

Psalm 80:1
Describes God as enthroned between the cherubim, emphasizing His sovereign presence and authority.

Revelation 4:6-8
The vision of the living creatures around God's throne, reminiscent of the cherubim, illustrating the continuity of God's holiness and majesty.