Topical Encyclopedia The term "Cherubim" refers to a class of angelic beings frequently mentioned in the Bible, often associated with the presence and glory of God. The Cherubim are depicted as guardians of sacred spaces and as bearers of divine majesty. They are first introduced in the Book of Genesis and appear throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing the holiness and unapproachable nature of God.Biblical References and Descriptions The Cherubim are first mentioned in Genesis 3:24, where God places them at the east of the Garden of Eden, along with a flaming sword, to guard the way to the tree of life after Adam and Eve's expulsion: "So He drove out the man and stationed cherubim to the east of the Garden of Eden, with a whirling sword of flame to guard the way to the tree of life" . In the construction of the Tabernacle, the Cherubim are intricately woven into the design of the sacred space. Exodus 25:18-22 describes the instructions given to Moses for the Ark of the Covenant: "And make two cherubim of hammered gold at the ends of the mercy seat. Make one cherub on one end and the second cherub on the other end; make the cherubim of one piece with the mercy seat at its two ends. The cherubim are to have wings that spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat. The cherubim are to face each other, looking toward the mercy seat" . Here, the Cherubim are depicted as part of the "mercy seat," symbolizing the divine presence and the place where God would meet with His people. The Cherubim are also prominently featured in the visions of the prophet Ezekiel. In Ezekiel 1:5-11, they are described as having a complex and awe-inspiring appearance, with four faces and four wings, signifying their role as powerful and multifaceted servants of God. Ezekiel 10 further elaborates on their role in the divine chariot, emphasizing their connection to the glory of God. In the New Testament, the Cherubim are referred to in the context of the heavenly sanctuary. Hebrews 9:5 mentions them in relation to the Ark of the Covenant: "Above the ark were the cherubim of glory, overshadowing the mercy seat. But we cannot discuss these things in detail now" . This passage highlights their association with the divine presence and the reverence due to the sacred objects of worship. Symbolism and Theological Significance The Cherubim are often seen as symbols of God's holiness, majesty, and the mystery of His presence. Their role as guardians of the Garden of Eden and the Ark of the Covenant underscores their function as protectors of divine sanctity. The imagery of the Cherubim in the Tabernacle and Temple serves as a reminder of the separation between the holy and the profane, illustrating the need for reverence and purity in approaching God. In Christian theology, the Cherubim are sometimes interpreted as representing the fullness of divine knowledge and wisdom. Their multiple faces and wings suggest their ability to perceive and move swiftly in the service of God's will. As "the Cherubim of Glory," they are a testament to the splendor and awe of God's heavenly throne, inviting believers to worship with humility and reverence. The Cherubim, therefore, occupy a significant place in the biblical narrative, embodying the themes of divine protection, holiness, and the glory of God. Their presence in Scripture serves as a powerful reminder of the transcendence and immanence of the Creator, who is both near to His people and exalted above all creation. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 9:5And over it the cherubim of glory shadowing the mercy seat; of which we cannot now speak particularly. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Concerning the Seraphim and Cherubim and Thrones, and Concerning ... The First Part What is the Sanctuary? The First vision "In Heaven": Chapters 4-5 Hebrews ix. 5-Jan The Holy Spirit in Relation to the Father and the Son. ... What is the Sanctuary? Man Summoned by God's Glory and Energy A Soul Gazing on God Ezekiel's vision (Preached Before the Queen at Windsor, June 16 ... Resources What are the ophanim? | GotQuestions.orgWho are the four living creatures in Revelation? | GotQuestions.org Do angels have wings? | GotQuestions.org Cherubim: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Cherubim in Ezekiel's Vision of the Temple Cherubim of Gold: Formed out of, and at Each End of the Mercy Seat Cherubim of Gold: God's Presence Manifested Between Cherubim of Gold: Placed Over the Ark of the Covenant Cherubim of Gold: The Oracles or Answers of God Delivered from Between Cherubim: Animated by the Spirit of God Cherubim: Called the Cherubim of Glory Cherubim: Eastward of the Garden of Eden Cherubim: Engaged in Accomplishing the Purposes of God Cherubim: Figures of On the Curtain Cherubim: Figures of On the Lavers Cherubim: Figures of On the Walls Cherubim: Figures of, Embroidered: And on the Curtain Cherubim: Figures of, Embroidered: On the Walls of the Tabernacle Cherubim: Form and Appearance of Cherubim: Placed at the Entrance of Eden Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Bases of Brazen Lavers Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Curtains of the Tabernacle Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Doors of the Temple Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Vail of the Tabernacle Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Vail of the Temple Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Walls of the Temple Cherubim: Riding On, Illustrative of Majesty and Power of God Cherubim: Sound of Their Wings Was As the Voice of God Cherubim: The Ark of the Covenant Rested Beneath the Wings of Cherubim: The Glory of God Exhibited Upon Related Terms |