Topical Bible: Cloud of Glory: First Manifestation of

Bible > Topical > Cloud of Glory

◄ Cloud of Glory: First Manifestation of ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The "Cloud of Glory," often referred to as the "Shekinah Glory," represents the visible manifestation of God's presence among His people. The first significant appearance of this divine phenomenon is recorded in the Book of Exodus, during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their subsequent journey through the wilderness.

Biblical Context

The initial manifestation of the Cloud of Glory occurs as the Israelites depart from Egypt, under the leadership of Moses. This event is pivotal in the narrative of the Exodus, symbolizing God's guidance and protection over His chosen people. The cloud serves as both a physical and spiritual sign of God's covenantal presence.

Scriptural Reference

The first mention of the Cloud of Glory is found in Exodus 13:21-22 : "And 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. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place before the people."

Theological Significance

The Cloud of Glory is a profound symbol of God's immanence and transcendence. It demonstrates His willingness to dwell among His people, guiding them through the uncertainties of the wilderness. The cloud by day and the fire by night provided not only direction but also a constant reminder of God's unchanging presence and faithfulness.

Function and Purpose

1. Guidance: The cloud served as a divine GPS, leading the Israelites through the desert. It moved ahead of the people, indicating when they should set out and when they should encamp.

2. Protection: The cloud also acted as a shield, protecting the Israelites from the harsh desert sun during the day and providing warmth and light during the cold nights.

3. Revelation: The presence of the cloud was a visible sign of God's glory and holiness. It was a reminder of His sovereignty and the special relationship He had with Israel.

4. Sanctification: The cloud's presence sanctified the camp of Israel, setting them apart as God's holy nation. It underscored the need for purity and obedience among the people.

Subsequent Manifestations

The Cloud of Glory continued to play a significant role throughout the Israelites' journey. It descended upon Mount Sinai when God gave the Law to Moses (Exodus 19:16-20), filled the Tabernacle upon its completion (Exodus 40:34-38), and later appeared in the dedication of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 8:10-11).

Conclusion

The first manifestation of the Cloud of Glory is a foundational event in the history of Israel, encapsulating the themes of divine guidance, protection, and presence. It set the stage for future encounters with God's glory and remains a powerful symbol of His enduring covenant with His people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 13:20,21
And they took their journey from Succoth, and encamped in Etham, in the edge of the wilderness.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

"That which was from the Beginning,"
... more wonderfully manifested, and made visible, for, in the first, the Creator ... to
break forth from under such a dark cloud, this was greater glory, and more ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon ii that which was.htm

"Not by Might, nor by Power"
... of the divine presence which pertained to the first temple. There was no manifestation
of supernatural power to mark its dedication. No cloud of glory was seen ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 48 not by might.htm

The Transfiguration
... were, apparently, intended for the three and for us all; and the first is a ... right
track and indicates that we are to think of the cloud of glory, which was ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture d/the transfiguration.htm

'Three Tabernacles'
... the Mercy-seat, the brightness of the symbolical cloud which was ... And how did that
glory make itself known to us ... As we read in the story of the first that Christ ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture i/three tabernacles.htm

Sixth Day. Holiness and Glory.
... and the camp of Israel: it was a cloud and darkness ... understand that whatever we see
of His glory is just ... and the spirit of praise may, at first sight, appear ...
//christianbookshelf.org/murray/holy in christ/sixth day holiness and glory.htm

The True Tabernacle, and Its Glory of Grace and Peace
... the gracious manifestation vouchsafed her when "a cloud covered the tent of the
congregation, and the glory of the ... I shall at this time say, first of all ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 31 1885/the true tabernacle and its.htm

The Manifestation of the Messiah
... the day, but destined to fade in the glory of ruddy ... that marvellous scene in which
he first recognised the ... The Shechinah cloud was gathering up its fleecy folds ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/meyer/john the baptist/vii the manifestation of the.htm

He was Transfigured
... At first the disciples unite their prayers with His in sincere devotion; but ... am well
pleased; hear ye Him." As they beheld the cloud of glory, brighter than ...
/.../white/the desire of ages/chapter 46 he was transfigured.htm

The Lord of Glory.
... The Lord of Glory descended in the cloud and stood with ... is, in the Holy of Holies
we shall behold His Glory. ... same image "that He might be the first born among ...
//christianbookshelf.org/gaebelein/the lord of glory/the lord of glory.htm

The Destruction of Jerusalem.
... of the divine presence which pertained to the first temple. There was no manifestation
of supernatural power to mark its dedication. No cloud of glory was seen ...
/.../1 the destruction of jerusalem.htm