The cherubim are a class of angelic beings mentioned in the Bible, often associated with the presence and majesty of God. One of the most significant roles of the cherubim is their placement at the entrance of the Garden of Eden following the expulsion of Adam and Eve. This event is recorded in the book of Genesis and holds profound theological implications regarding the holiness of God and the consequences of sin.

Biblical Account

In Genesis 3:24 , it is written: "So He drove out the man and stationed cherubim on the east side of the Garden of Eden, along with a whirling sword of flame to guard the way to the tree of life." This passage follows the narrative of the Fall, where Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. As a result of their disobedience, they were banished from Eden to prevent them from accessing the tree of life and living forever in a fallen state.

Role and Symbolism

The cherubim, in this context, serve as guardians of the sacred space of Eden. Their presence, along with the flaming sword, symbolizes the separation between humanity and the divine presence due to sin. The cherubim's role as protectors of the holy is consistent with other biblical depictions, where they are often seen as bearers of God's throne or as part of His heavenly entourage (Ezekiel 10:1-22, Revelation 4:6-8).

The imagery of the cherubim and the flaming sword emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God. It underscores the idea that access to eternal life and communion with God is not possible without divine intervention and redemption. The cherubim's presence at Eden's entrance serves as a constant reminder of the lost paradise and the hope of eventual restoration through God's redemptive plan.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the placement of the cherubim at Eden's entrance highlights several key themes:

1. Holiness and Justice of God: The cherubim's role as guardians reflects God's holiness and the justice of His actions. Sin cannot coexist with God's holiness, necessitating the separation of humanity from the divine presence.

2. The Consequences of Sin: The expulsion from Eden and the barring of access to the tree of life illustrate the grave consequences of disobedience. It serves as a foundational narrative for understanding the fallen state of humanity and the need for salvation.

3. Hope for Redemption: While the cherubim prevent access to the tree of life, the broader biblical narrative points to the hope of redemption and restoration. Through Christ, the way to eternal life is reopened, fulfilling the promise of reconciliation with God.

Cherubim in Biblical Tradition

Beyond their role in Eden, cherubim appear throughout Scripture in various forms and functions. In the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, cherubim were intricately woven into the design, symbolizing God's presence among His people (Exodus 25:18-22, 1 Kings 6:23-28). In prophetic visions, such as those of Ezekiel, cherubim are depicted as complex, awe-inspiring creatures that reflect the glory and majesty of God.

The cherubim at the entrance of Eden thus serve as a profound symbol within the biblical narrative, representing both the justice and mercy of God. Their presence marks the beginning of humanity's journey toward redemption and the ultimate restoration of fellowship with the Creator.Genesis 3:24
So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubim, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Essay
... At the entrance into Eden, by which Adam was driven out, were placed cherubim, or
angels, with a bright appearance, more than ordinary, which rendered it awful ...
/.../an essay on the mosaic account of the creation and fall of man/essay.htm

The Complement of Genesis.
... Cherubim final mention in connection with man ... When God has placed the key to the
book at the very ... door either has to be forced, or all hope of entrance abandoned ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the complement of genesis.htm

Chapter iii
... most insidiously worms its way in where other sins often could not find entrance. ...
Between man and the garden, that is "to the east," "cherubim" are placed. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter iii.htm

The People of the New Earth
... not "live for ever" in his sin and shame, that Cherubim and a flaming sword were
placed to keep ... are not revealed; for all was broken by the entrance of the ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the people of the new.htm

The Book of Enoch
... from the beginning the future entrance of superstitions ... of the Scriptures, where
it is placed immediately before the ... in connection with the cherubim and seraphim ...
//christianbookshelf.org/deane/pseudepigrapha/the book of enoch.htm

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... of the members, will be recalled to the culture of the garden of Eden as its ... be exalted
above Peter and Paul, since they, being but men, must be placed in the ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... are, by the direction of the Lawgiver, certain good and substantial steps, placed
even through ... what a favour is this to me, that yet I am admitted entrance here ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

part ii
... yourself lower than he or she, for you are placed by Christ ... He should be like the
many-eyed cherubim"all eyes, all ... " Thou hast been in Eden, the garden of God ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

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Cherubim: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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