Cherubim
“Etymology uncertain; possibly related to 'nearness' to God or 'noble/mighty one'”
Summary
Composite angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God, depicted as guardians of sacred spaces from Eden to the temple, and symbolic representatives of redeemed creation in its ideal form.
☩At the Garden of Eden
The first mention of cherubim occurs after Adam's expulsion from Eden, where God placed them with a flaming sword 'to keep the way of the tree of life' (Genesis 3:24). They are introduced without description, as though already familiar. Rather than simply barring man from paradise, they served as guardians preserving access to the tree of life until humanity could be restored to it through redemption (Revelation 2:7; 22:14).
☩In the Tabernacle and Temple
Two golden cherubim were placed on the mercy seat of the ark, facing each other with wings outstretched to cover it (Exodus 25:18-22). God promised to meet with Moses 'from between the two cherubim' (Exodus 25:22). In Solomon's temple, two colossal cherubim of olive wood overlaid with gold filled the most holy place, their wings spanning the entire room (1 Kings 6:23-28). Cherubim figures were also woven into the tabernacle curtains and carved on the temple walls.
☩Ezekiel's Vision
Ezekiel's visions present detailed descriptions of the cherubim as composite beings with four faces—man, lion, ox, and eagle—and four wings (Ezekiel 1:5-14; 10:1-22). They are identified with God's throne-chariot, bearing His glory. Their movement was directed by the Spirit, and their eyes all over symbolize manifold wisdom. Each represents the highest forms of creaturely life: man as supreme, the lion among wild animals, the ox among domestic animals, and the eagle among birds.
☩Symbolism and Significance
The cherubim represent redeemed creation in its ideal glorified form, distinct from fallen creation symbolized by 'beasts' in Daniel. The number four signifies worldwide extension and divine revelation. As God is said to dwell 'between the cherubim' (Psalm 80:1; 99:1), they symbolize both His holiness and His accessibility through atonement. In Revelation, the 'living creatures' around God's throne draw from this imagery, worshiping continuously and representing the culmination of redemption.
Related Verses59 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Cherub," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).
- 2.John McClintock and James Strong, "Cherub," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Cherubim," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. I (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).