Topical Bible: Chariots: The Clouds

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In biblical literature, the imagery of chariots is often used to convey divine power, majesty, and the swift execution of God's will. One of the most evocative uses of this imagery is the depiction of clouds as God's chariots, symbolizing His presence and authority over creation.

Biblical References

The concept of clouds as chariots is vividly illustrated in Psalm 104:3, which states, "He makes the clouds His chariot; He walks upon the wings of the wind." This verse poetically describes God's sovereignty and His ability to traverse the heavens with ease and majesty. The imagery of clouds as chariots emphasizes the transcendence and omnipresence of God, who is not bound by earthly limitations.

In Isaiah 19:1, the prophet declares, "Behold, the LORD rides on a swift cloud and is coming to Egypt. The idols of Egypt tremble before Him, and the hearts of the Egyptians melt within them." Here, the cloud as a chariot signifies God's impending judgment and His power to bring about His purposes among the nations. The swift cloud underscores the speed and inevitability of His actions.

Theophany and Divine Presence

The use of clouds as chariots is closely associated with theophany, the manifestation of God to humanity. In Exodus 13:21, during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, "The LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud to guide their way by day and in a pillar of fire to give them light by night, so that they could travel by day or night." The cloud served as a visible sign of God's presence and guidance, leading His people with divine authority.

Similarly, in the New Testament, the cloud is present during the Transfiguration of Jesus. Matthew 17:5 records, "While Peter was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!'" The cloud here signifies the presence of God the Father, affirming Jesus' divine sonship and authority.

Eschatological Significance

The imagery of clouds as chariots also carries eschatological significance, pointing to the return of Christ. In Revelation 1:7, it is proclaimed, "Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen." The clouds here symbolize the glory and majesty of Christ's second coming, as well as the fulfillment of divine prophecy.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The symbolism of clouds as chariots in the Bible serves multiple purposes. It highlights God's transcendence, His ability to act swiftly and decisively, and His intimate involvement in the affairs of the world. The imagery also reinforces the theme of divine judgment and salvation, as God uses His chariots to execute justice and deliver His people.

In summary, the depiction of clouds as chariots in the Bible is a powerful metaphor for God's omnipotence, His presence among His people, and His ultimate authority over creation. This imagery invites believers to recognize the majesty of God and to trust in His sovereign plans.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 104:3
Who lays the beams of his chambers in the waters: who makes the clouds his chariot: who walks on the wings of the wind:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

On the Clause, and Shall Come in Glory to Judge the Quick and the ...
... Come, ye blessed of My Father [1927] , will He say to them who shall then
ride on chariots of clouds, and be assembled by Angels. 23. ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/lecture xv on the clause.htm

Women who Saved a Nation
... But Barak pursued the chariots and the forces to Harosheth; and all the army of ... the
region of Edom, Earth trembled, the heavens swayed, The clouds also dripped ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/sherman/the childrens bible/women who saved a nation.htm

Nahum's Doom of Nineveh
... LORD hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the ... his mighty
men is made red: The valiant men are in scarlet: The chariots flash with ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/xi nahums doom of nineveh.htm

Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount
... They see Him "making the clouds his chariots, and walking upon the wings of the
wind." They see Him "preparing rain for the earth, and blessing the increase of ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 23 upon our lords.htm

"She Hath done what She Could. "
... sun, and the clouds caught in their capacious bosoms the incense from the sea, and
the winds, like waiting steeds, caught the chariots of the clouds and bore ...
/.../moody/to the work to the work/chapter vii she hath done.htm

But Whilst the King Has not that Most Blessed Light...
... coming of that precious Saviour is close: just as close is the fulfillment of those
words, "together with them." "He maketh the clouds His chariots," and in ...
/.../jennings/old groans and new songs/chapter vii but whilst the.htm

The Capture of Chrysostom
Gathering Clouds: A Tale of the Days of St ... At Pagr?? there was quite a commotion"for
there were two imperial chariots, with their gorgeously caparisoned horses ...
/.../chapter xv the capture of.htm

Marvellous Increase of the Church
... Ye have seen clouds dashing along, like chariots drawn by mighty horses, or flying
like a fugitive army, when the swift winds have pursued them, and ye have ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/marvellous increase of the church.htm

God Our Guide.
... not knowing which way to take, rejoice exceedingly in my heart to be permitted to
commit my way unto Him who makes the clouds his chariots, and rides upon the ...
/.../orr/food for the lambs or helps for young christians/god our guide.htm

Stichera of the Ascension
... Might abide with sinful men. II. Clouds His chariots, upwards rising. Bear
Him proudly to the skies; Heaven beholds a sight surprising,. ...
/.../brownlie/hymns of the holy eastern church/stichera of the ascension.htm