Topical Encyclopedia The cherubim are a class of angelic beings frequently mentioned in the Bible, known for their close association with the divine presence and their role in executing the purposes of God. They are depicted as majestic and powerful creatures, often serving as guardians and attendants to the Almighty.Biblical Descriptions and Roles The first mention of cherubim occurs in Genesis 3:24, where they are stationed at the east of the Garden of Eden, "with a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life" . This initial appearance underscores their role as protectors of sacred spaces and enforcers of divine will. In the construction of the Tabernacle, God commands Moses to make two cherubim of gold, placed on the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:18-22). These cherubim are described as having wings that overshadow the mercy seat, symbolizing their role as guardians of God's covenant and His presence among the Israelites. The Lord promises to meet with Moses "from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim" (Exodus 25:22), indicating their function as intermediaries between God and His people. The prophet Ezekiel provides a vivid description of cherubim in his visions, portraying them as living creatures with multiple faces and wings, full of eyes, and moving in perfect harmony with the Spirit of God (Ezekiel 1:4-28; 10:1-22). These visions emphasize their role in executing God's judgments and their intimate connection with His glory. Symbolism and Theological Significance Cherubim are often associated with the holiness and majesty of God. Their presence in the Holy of Holies, the innermost sanctuary of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, signifies the unapproachable and transcendent nature of God. The imagery of cherubim in the Temple, as described in 1 Kings 6:23-28, further reinforces their role as divine attendants and protectors of sacred spaces. In the book of Revelation, the cherubim are depicted as living creatures around the throne of God, continually worshiping Him and proclaiming His holiness (Revelation 4:6-8). This portrayal highlights their perpetual engagement in the worship and adoration of God, serving as a model for all creation. Cherubim in Christian Thought Throughout Christian history, cherubim have been understood as symbols of divine wisdom and knowledge. Their depiction in art and literature often emphasizes their role as bearers of God's presence and executors of His will. The cherubim's association with the Ark of the Covenant and the mercy seat has also been seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work, where mercy and justice meet. In summary, the cherubim are integral to the biblical narrative, serving as guardians, attendants, and worshipers in the divine realm. Their presence in Scripture underscores the holiness of God and His sovereign purposes, as they faithfully execute His will and protect His sacred spaces. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 1:15,21Now as I beheld the living creatures, behold one wheel on the earth by the living creatures, with his four faces. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 10:9-11,16,17 Library "What Doest Thou Here?" The Honored Servant Resources What are cherubim? Are cherubs angels? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God have the cherubim guard just the east side of Eden (Genesis 3:24)? | GotQuestions.org What is the hierarchy of angels? | 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 |
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