Cherubim are a specific type of heavenly being mentioned in the Bible. They are not ordinary angels but rather distinct, high-ranking spiritual creatures closely associated with the presence, holiness, and glory of God. Cherubim serve a unique purpose in God’s divine order, often depicted as guardians or attendants to God’s throne.
Biblical Description of Cherubim
- Guardians of God’s Holiness
- Cherubim are first mentioned in Genesis 3:24 as guardians of the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve were expelled. They prevent humans from accessing the Tree of Life.
- Genesis 3:24 (NIV):
“After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life.”
- Depictions in the Tabernacle and Temple
- The cherubim were central in the design of the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God’s presence and holiness. Their wings covered the mercy seat, which was God’s earthly throne in the tabernacle.
- Exodus 25:20 (NIV):
“The cherubim are to have their wings spread upward, overshadowing the cover with them. The cherubim are to face each other, looking toward the cover.” - 1 Kings 6:27 (NIV):
“He placed the cherubim inside the innermost room of the temple, with their wings spread out.”
- Vision of God’s Glory
- In Ezekiel’s vision, cherubim are described as having a complex appearance, including multiple faces and wings, and they are closely associated with the throne of God.
- Ezekiel 1:5-10 (NIV):
“In appearance their form was human, but each of them had four faces and four wings. Their legs were straight; their feet were like those of a calf and gleamed like burnished bronze. Under their wings on their four sides they had human hands. All four of them had faces and wings, and the wings of one touched the wings of another.”
- God’s Throne Bearers
- Cherubim are described as carrying or accompanying the throne of God in visions of His glory.
- Psalm 18:10 (NIV):
“He mounted the cherubim and flew; he soared on the wings of the wind.” - Ezekiel 10:15-16 (NIV):
“Then the cherubim rose upward. These were the living creatures I had seen by the Kebar River. When the cherubim moved, the wheels beside them moved.”
Are Cherubim Angels?
While cherubim are often grouped with angels in Christian thought, they are distinct in the following ways:
- Specialized Role
- Ordinary angels are messengers of God, delivering His word or assisting humanity (Hebrews 1:14). In contrast, cherubim are guardians of God’s holiness, specifically attending His throne and glory.
- Unique Appearance
- Cherubim have unique physical descriptions that set them apart from the typical depictions of angels (e.g., human-like figures with wings). Cherubim are described with multiple faces (human, lion, ox, eagle) and wings, and they appear as living creatures associated with God’s presence (Ezekiel 1:5-11). This is not the typical appearance of angels.
- Higher Rank
- Cherubim are often depicted in close proximity to God’s throne, indicating their elevated status among heavenly beings. Other classifications, such as seraphim, also serve distinct roles (Isaiah 6:1-3).
Cultural Depictions of Cherubs
The term “cherub” has been popularized in art and culture as chubby, childlike figures with wings, but this image has no basis in biblical descriptions. The biblical cherubim are powerful, awe-inspiring creatures associated with God’s majesty and holiness, quite unlike the romanticized “cherubs” of Renaissance art.
Symbolism of Cherubim
- Guardianship
- Cherubim often serve as protectors of sacred spaces, such as the Garden of Eden or the Ark of the Covenant.
- God’s Glory and Presence
- Their role as throne bearers and attendants underscores God’s majesty and holiness.
- Divine Judgment and Mercy
- Their presence on the mercy seat signifies the balance between God’s judgment and mercy in His relationship with humanity.
Conclusion
Cherubim are unique, high-ranking heavenly beings closely associated with God’s holiness and glory. While they are distinct from ordinary angels, their roles as guardians and throne bearers highlight their importance in the divine order. Understanding their biblical descriptions gives us a deeper appreciation of God’s majesty and the reverence due to Him.
- Psalm 99:1 (NIV):
“The Lord reigns, let the nations tremble; he sits enthroned between the cherubim, let the earth shake.”