And the cherubim spread their wings over the place of the ark, and the cherubim overshadowed the mercy seat with their wings. – Exodus 25:20
Bible Verses About Cherubim
The Purpose of Cherubim
Throughout history, cherubim have been depicted as beings that serve God in remarkable ways. They are often seen as guardians, protecting the holiness of God and His presence among His people. In this context, we recognize that cherubim symbolize divine protection and some of God’s most profound mysteries. Their role goes far beyond simple imagery; they remind us of the infinite power of God and His commitment to safeguard His creation. As we study cherubim in the Bible, we realize that they represent a bridge between the divine and humanity. They serve God by executing His will and embodying His holiness. Thus, cherubim remind us to approach God with reverence and awe, reflecting on His greatness in our lives.
Exodus 25:20
And the cherubim spread their wings over the place of the ark, and the cherubim overshadowed the mercy seat with their wings. – Exodus 25:20
Ezekiel 10:1
Then I looked, and behold, on the firmament that was above the head of the cherubim there appeared something like a sapphire stone, having the appearance of the likeness of a throne. – Ezekiel 10:1
Psalm 80:1
Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock. You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine forth. – Psalm 80:1
Ezekiel 1:5
And in the midst of it was the likeness of four living creatures. And this was their appearance: They had the likeness of a man. – Ezekiel 1:5
Revelation 4:6
And before the throne there was a sea of glass like crystal. And in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind. – Revelation 4:6
The Appearance of Cherubim
The descriptions of cherubim in the Bible can spark our imaginations. They are often portrayed with wings, multiple faces, and a majestic appearance that reflects their divine nature. The majestic imagery reminds us how small we are in relation to God. We can marvel at how God chooses beings like these to carry out His purposes. As we read about their appearance, we see not only their physical attributes but also the honor they carry as guardians in God’s presence. This can inspire us to reflect upon the beauty of creation and how God expresses His greatness through His creations. Thus, cherubim are a reminder of the magnificence of God’s design and how His handiwork encompasses everything, including us. Their appearances teach us to recognize the wonder of God’s artistry and love.
Ezekiel 1:6
Each had four faces and each one had four wings. – Ezekiel 1:6
Exodus 26:1
Moreover you shall make the tabernacle with ten curtains of fine woven linen and blue, purple, and scarlet thread; with artistic designs of cherubim you shall weave them. – Exodus 26:1
Genesis 3:24
So He drove out the man; and He placed cherubim at the east of the garden of Eden, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life. – Genesis 3:24
Psalms 99:1
The Lord reigns; let the peoples tremble! He dwells between the cherubim; let the earth be moved! – Psalms 99:1
Isaiah 6:2
Above it stood seraphim; each one had six wings. With two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. – Isaiah 6:2
Cherubim as Guardians
Cherubim fulfill a vital role as guardians in the Biblical narrative. Starting with their placement in the Garden of Eden, they demonstrate God’s protective nature. They are sent to safeguard what is holy, showing us the importance of respecting God’s creations. This reminds us that as we go through life, we should also be guardians of our faith and of the purity of our hearts. When we nurture our faith and honor God, we create a protective barrier around ourselves that keeps negativity at bay. By embracing our responsibilities to protect what God has bestowed upon us, including love, kindness, and faith, we contribute to His kingdom work. Cherubim teach us that we, too, have a role to guard, protect and nurture what is sacred in our lives.
Genesis 3:24
So He drove out the man; and He placed cherubim at the east of the garden of Eden, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life. – Genesis 3:24
Revelation 5:11
Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne, the living creatures, and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands. – Revelation 5:11
Ezekiel 28:14
You were the anointed cherub who covers; I established you; you were on the holy mountain of God; you walked back and forth in the midst of fiery stones. – Ezekiel 28:14
Exodus 37:7
He made two cherubim of gold; of hammered work he made them, at the two ends of the mercy seat. – Exodus 37:7
Isaiah 37:16
O Lord of hosts, God of Israel, the One who dwells between the cherubim, You are God, You alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. – Isaiah 37:16
The Worship of Cherubim
The cherubim have a fascinating aspect too; they are portrayed as engaged in worship. Their presence around God serves as a reminder that worship is at the core of our relationship with Him. Just as cherubim are ever-present in God’s court, we should seek to maintain our focus on worship in all aspects of our lives. Grounding ourselves in worship draws us closer to God, transforms our hearts, and aligns us with His purposes. We should follow the example of the cherubim by fostering a worshipful spirit, whether through song, prayer, or living out our faith in action. The way they worship calls us to be devoted to glorifying God, manifesting His love in our daily journeys.
Revelation 4:8
The four living creatures, each having six wings, were full of eyes around and within. And they do not rest day or night, saying: “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!” – Revelation 4:8
Psalm 148:1
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise Him in the heights! – Psalm 148:1
Hebrews 12:22
But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels. – Hebrews 12:22
Isaiah 6:3
And one cried to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” – Isaiah 6:3
Psalms 103:21
Bless the Lord, all you His hosts, You ministers of His, who do His pleasure. – Psalms 103:21
The Significance of Cherubim in Scripture
Cherubim are more than just symbols; they hold deep significance in Scripture and remind us of the complexity of God’s nature. Actively serving in His presence reflects that God is close to us and desires a relationship with us. The presence of cherubim throughout the Word illustrates that God’s plans involve layers of purpose and depth. They help us see beyond the surface, prompting us to dig deeper in our understanding of God’s workings. By studying the role of cherubim, we can uncover truths that can enhance our relationship with Him and provide insights into our calling. The significance of cherubim can inspire us to embrace our purpose, reminding us that we are also called to serve and honor the Lord.
Ezekiel 10:20
This is the living creature that I saw under the God of Israel by the river Chebar, and I knew they were cherubim. – Ezekiel 10:20
Revelation 5:8
Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. – Revelation 5:8
1 Chronicles 28:18
And for the altar of incense refined gold by weight; and gold for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubim that spread their wings and overshadowed the ark of the covenant of the Lord. – 1 Chronicles 28:18
1 Kings 6:23
Inside the inner sanctuary he made two cherubim of olive wood, each ten cubits high. – 1 Kings 6:23
2 Chronicles 3:11
The wings of the cherubim extended twenty cubits, and they stood on their feet facing the inner room. – 2 Chronicles 3:11
The Relationship Between Cherubim and Us
As we contemplate cherubim, we can draw a connection to the reality that we, too, are called to reflect God’s glory. Just as cherubim serve God and reflect His holiness, we are also invited into this sacred relationship. Living in a world filled with temptations and challenges requires that we continually turn our hearts towards God, seeking His strength. By understanding the role of cherubim, we learn to embrace our identity as God’s children, empowered to carry out His mission on earth. Our relationship with God can flourish when we acknowledge our purpose to reflect His love and light wherever we go. Let us be inspired by cherubim to stand tall in our faith and shine brightly as we fulfill God’s calling.
2 Timothy 1:9
Who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began. – 2 Timothy 1:9
John 17:22
And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one. – John 17:22
Matthew 5:16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:16
1 Peter 2:9
But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. – 1 Peter 2:9
Romans 12:1
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. – Romans 12:1
Final Thoughts
As we explore the significance of cherubim, we uncover a profound truth about God’s relationship with us. Cherubim reflect God’s glory and serve as guardians of His holiness, reminding us of the beauty and your character of God. They reveal how close God is to us and emphasize our own calling. Their appearances challenge us to worship and honor God in our lives, setting an example of devotion.
We are encouraged to embrace our identity as children of God and the important part we play in His creation. Cherubim represent more than just mythical creatures; they teach us about our purpose and responsibilities as believers. Just as they reflect God’s holiness, we are called to shine His light in darkness and share His love with the world.
Let us delve deeper into these themes as we hear more about cherubim. Their beauty leads us to the stories and truths found throughout the Bible. For those wanting to explore more, resources like Ezekiel’s Vision or The Ark of the Covenant offer further insights.