Topical Encyclopedia The "Cloud of Glory," often referred to as the Shekinah, is a significant biblical symbol representing the presence and majesty of God. Throughout the Scriptures, this cloud serves as a divine medium through which God communicates with His people, offering guidance, instruction, and revelation.Old Testament Instances 1. Mount Sinai: One of the most prominent instances of God speaking from the cloud of glory is found during the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. In Exodus 19:9, the LORD tells Moses, "Behold, I will come to you in a dense cloud, so that the people will hear when I speak with you, and will always put their trust in you." This cloud enveloped the mountain, and from it, God delivered the Ten Commandments to Moses, as described in Exodus 20. 2. The Tabernacle: The cloud of glory also rested upon the Tabernacle, signifying God's dwelling among His people. In Exodus 40:34-35, it is recorded, "Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. Moses could not enter the Tent of Meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle." This cloud served as a visible assurance of God's presence and guidance during the Israelites' wilderness journey. 3. The Wilderness Journey: During the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, the cloud of glory provided both guidance and protection. Numbers 9:15-23 details how the cloud covered the Tabernacle by day and appeared as fire by night, directing the Israelites when to set out and when to camp. This divine presence was a constant reminder of God's leadership and care. New Testament Revelation 1. The Transfiguration: In the New Testament, the cloud of glory is notably present during the Transfiguration of Jesus. In Matthew 17:5, while Jesus is on the mountain with Peter, James, and John, "a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!'" This event underscores the divine approval of Jesus' mission and identity, with the cloud serving as a conduit for God's voice. 2. The Ascension: Although not explicitly described as the cloud of glory, the cloud that received Jesus during His ascension in Acts 1:9 is often associated with the divine presence. "After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight." This cloud signifies the return of Jesus to the heavenly realm and the continuation of His divine authority. Theological Significance The cloud of glory is a profound symbol of God's immanence and transcendence. It represents His willingness to dwell among His people while simultaneously conveying His holiness and otherness. The cloud serves as a medium through which God communicates His will, demonstrating His desire for relationship and covenant with humanity. Throughout biblical history, the cloud of glory reassures believers of God's constant presence, guidance, and sovereign power. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 24:16And the glory of the LORD stayed on mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days: and the seventh day he called to Moses out of the middle of the cloud. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 99:7 Library Honour and Glory unto Him. Following the Cloud. God's Spokesman. "Not by Might, nor by Power" Prayer, Praise and Thanksgiving "To My Father, and Your Father" Version ii. Whether the Old Law was Given through the Angels? The True Tabernacle, and Its Glory of Grace and Peace Two Sunsets Resources What does it mean that God is the King of glory? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of Hebrews 12:2? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to 'run the race set before us' (Hebrews 12:1)? | GotQuestions.org Cloud: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Cloud of Glory was Dark to the Enemies of Israel Cloud of Glory was Designed to Cover the Tabernacle Cloud of Glory was Designed to Defend Israel Cloud of Glory was Designed to Guide Israel Cloud of Glory was Designed to Regulate the Movements of Israel Cloud of Glory was Designed to Show Light to Israel Cloud of Glory was the Shekinah Over the Mercy-Seat Cloud of Glory: Called: Cloud of the Lord Cloud of Glory: Called: Cloudy Pillar Cloud of Glory: Called: Pillar of Cloud and Pillar of Fire Cloud of Glory: Called: The Cloud Cloud of Glory: Called: The Presence of God Cloud of Glory: Continued During the Journeyings of Israel Cloud of Glory: First Manifestation of Cloud of Glory: God Came Down In Cloud of Glory: God Spoke From Cloud of Glory: God's Glory Manifested In Cloud of Glory: Manifested in the Temple of Solomon Cloud of Glory: Our Lord Shall Make his Second Appearance In Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At Christ's Ascension Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At Christ's Transfiguration Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At Giving of the Law Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At Sedition of Aaron and Miriam Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At the Murmuring for Bread Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At the Murmuring of Israel on Account of Korah's Death Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At the Murmuring of Israel on the Report of the Spies Cloud of Glory: Special Appearances of: At the Rebellion of Korah Cloud of Glory: The Glory of Christ Cloud of Glory: The Protection of the Church Cloud: Appearances of in Ezekiel's Vision Related Terms |