Topical Bible: Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Vail of the Tabernacle

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The cherubim hold a significant place in biblical theology, often depicted as celestial beings associated with the presence and majesty of God. In the context of the Tabernacle, the cherubim were represented in the design of the vail, which served as a critical element in the structure and symbolism of the sacred space.

Biblical Description and Symbolism

The vail of the Tabernacle was a curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, also known as the Holy of Holies. This vail was not merely a physical barrier but a profound symbol of the separation between God and humanity due to sin. The presence of the cherubim on the vail underscored the holiness and inaccessibility of God's presence, except through the prescribed means of atonement.

In Exodus 26:31-33 , the instructions for the construction of the vail are detailed: "You are to make a veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, with cherubim skillfully worked into it. Hang it with gold hooks on four posts of acacia wood overlaid with gold, standing on four silver bases. Hang the veil from the clasps and place the ark of the testimony behind the veil. The veil will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place."

The cherubim woven into the vail were not merely decorative but served as a constant reminder of the divine presence and the guardianship of sacred space. Their depiction on the vail aligns with other biblical instances where cherubim are associated with the throne of God, as seen in Ezekiel's visions and the descriptions in the book of Revelation.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the cherubim on the vail highlight the theme of God's holiness and the need for mediation between God and humanity. The vail, with its cherubim, signified that direct access to God was restricted, emphasizing the gravity of sin and the necessity of a mediator. This concept is further developed in the New Testament, where the tearing of the vail at the moment of Christ's death (Matthew 27:51) symbolizes the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting believers direct access to the divine presence through the atoning work of Jesus Christ.

Artistic and Cultural Context

The artistic representation of cherubim on the vail reflects the broader ancient Near Eastern context, where such beings were often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces. In the biblical narrative, however, the cherubim are uniquely tied to the worship of Yahweh, serving as a testament to His sovereignty and the sanctity of His dwelling place among His people.

In summary, the cherubim on the vail of the Tabernacle serve as a powerful symbol of God's holiness, the separation caused by sin, and the hope of reconciliation through divine provision. Their presence in the Tabernacle narrative invites reflection on the nature of worship, the seriousness of sin, and the profound grace offered through the redemptive work of Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 26:31
And you shall make a veil of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen of cunning work: with cherubim shall it be made:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Scriptural Types.
... as he that dwells between the cherubim.1 Sam ... them both." In accordance with these
representations a large ... The inadequacy of the type made it necessary that two ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxxvii scriptural types.htm

The First vision "In Heaven": Chapters 4-5
... The first thing made was not the Tabernacle itself ... These were not the real cherubim,
of course; they ... Representations of them were woven into the Vail (Exodus 26 ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the first vision in heaven .htm