The phrase "the appearance of a man" is a significant motif in the Bible, often used to describe divine or angelic encounters with humanity. This concept is rooted in the belief that God, or His messengers, can manifest in a form recognizable to humans, facilitating communication and interaction.

Old Testament Instances

1. Ezekiel's Vision: In the book of Ezekiel, the prophet describes a vision where he sees a figure with "the appearance of a man." Ezekiel 1:26-28 states, "Above the expanse over their heads was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like a sapphire stone. And on the throne high above was a figure like that of a man. From what seemed to be His waist up, I saw a gleam like amber, with what looked like fire within it all around, and from what seemed to be His waist down, I saw what looked like fire, and brilliant light surrounded Him." This vision is often interpreted as a theophany, a visible manifestation of God to a human.

2. Daniel's Encounters: The book of Daniel contains several references to figures with the appearance of a man. In Daniel 10:5-6 , Daniel describes a vision: "I lifted up my eyes and looked, and behold, there was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist. His body was like beryl, his face like the brilliance of lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of polished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude." This figure is often understood to be an angelic being, possibly Gabriel, who delivers messages from God.

New Testament Instances

1. Jesus Christ: The ultimate expression of "the appearance of a man" in the New Testament is the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:7-8 states, "but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." This passage emphasizes the humility and humanity of Christ, who, though divine, took on human form to fulfill God's redemptive plan.

2. Angelic Appearances: In the New Testament, angels often appear in human form to deliver messages. For example, in Acts 1:10 , after Jesus' ascension, "they were gazing intently into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them." These figures are understood to be angels, appearing as men to communicate with the disciples.

Theological Implications

The appearance of a man in biblical narratives underscores the accessibility and relational nature of God. By choosing to reveal Himself or His messengers in human form, God bridges the gap between the divine and the human, allowing for direct communication and interaction. This motif also prefigures the incarnation of Christ, where God fully enters into human experience. The consistent use of this imagery throughout Scripture highlights the continuity of God's plan and His desire to be known by His creation.