Exodus 37:8

one cherub on one end and one on the other, all made from one piece of gold.

Study Bible

one cherub on one end
The cherubim are angelic beings often associated with the presence and glory of God. In the context of the Ark of the Covenant, they symbolize the divine presence and serve as guardians of the sacred space. The placement of one cherub on each end of the mercy seat signifies the completeness and balance of God's protection and holiness. Cherubim are also mentioned in Genesis 3:24, where they guard the way to the Tree of Life, emphasizing their role as protectors of divine mysteries.

and one on the other
The symmetry of the cherubim on the Ark reflects the order and perfection of God's creation. This design underscores the importance of balance and harmony in the divine order. The cherubim facing each other with their wings spread over the mercy seat create a throne for the invisible presence of God, highlighting the Ark as the earthly throne of the heavenly King. This imagery is echoed in the visions of the prophet Ezekiel, where cherubim are seen as part of God's chariot-throne (Ezekiel 1:5-28).

all made from one piece of gold
The use of a single piece of gold for the cherubim and the mercy seat signifies the unity and purity of God's presence. Gold, a precious and incorruptible metal, represents the divine nature and glory. The craftsmanship required to fashion the cherubim and the mercy seat from one piece of gold demonstrates the skill and dedication of the artisans, as well as the importance of the Ark as a central element of Israel's worship. This unity of material can be seen as a type of Christ, who embodies the fullness of the Godhead in one person (Colossians 2:9), and whose sacrifice brings unity between God and humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The skilled craftsman chosen by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the Ark of the Covenant and the cherubim.

2. Cherubim
Angelic beings depicted as part of the mercy seat on the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing the presence and holiness of God.

3. Mercy Seat
The cover of the Ark of the Covenant, where the cherubim were placed. It represents God's throne and His presence among His people.

4. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, symbolizing God's covenant with Israel.

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

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Cherubim
The cherubim represent the holiness and majesty of God. Their presence on the mercy seat signifies that God is both transcendent and immanent, dwelling among His people.

The Mercy Seat as a Foreshadowing of Christ
The mercy seat is a powerful symbol of atonement and reconciliation. In the New Testament, Christ is seen as the ultimate fulfillment of the mercy seat, offering His blood for the forgiveness of sins.

God's Presence Among His People
The construction of the cherubim and the mercy seat illustrates God's desire to be present with His people. This presence is now fully realized through the Holy Spirit dwelling within believers.

Craftsmanship and Obedience
Bezalel's work on the cherubim demonstrates the importance of using our God-given talents in obedience to His commands. Our skills and abilities should be dedicated to His glory.

Reverence for God's Holiness
The detailed instructions for the cherubim and the mercy seat remind us of the need to approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His holiness and our need for His grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the presence of the cherubim on the mercy seat enhance our understanding of God's holiness and majesty?

2. In what ways does the mercy seat foreshadow the work of Christ in the New Testament? How can this understanding deepen our appreciation for His sacrifice?

3. How can we apply the example of Bezalel's craftsmanship and obedience in our own lives and service to God?

4. What does the concept of God dwelling among His people mean for us today, especially in light of the Holy Spirit's presence within believers?

5. How can we cultivate a greater sense of reverence and awe for God's holiness in our daily worship and prayer life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:18-22
Provides the original instructions for making the cherubim and the mercy seat, emphasizing their role in the Tabernacle.

Hebrews 9:5
Mentions the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat, highlighting their significance in the context of the Old Covenant and the foreshadowing of Christ's atonement.

Psalm 80:1
Refers to God as the one who is enthroned between the cherubim, underscoring His divine presence and authority.