Exodus 37:9

And the cherubim had wings that spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat. The cherubim faced each other, looking toward the mercy seat.

Study Bible

And the cherubim
The term "cherubim" is derived from the Hebrew word "כְּרוּבִים" (keruvim), which refers to angelic beings often associated with the presence and glory of God. In the context of the Tabernacle, the cherubim symbolize divine guardianship and the holiness of God's dwelling place. Historically, cherubim are depicted as majestic, powerful creatures, emphasizing the sacredness of the Ark of the Covenant.

had wings that spread upward
The imagery of wings "spread upward" signifies the cherubim's readiness to serve and their connection to the divine realm. Wings in biblical symbolism often represent swiftness, protection, and the ability to transcend earthly limitations. This description highlights the cherubim's role in exalting and glorifying God, as their wings reach toward the heavens.

overshadowing the mercy seat
The "mercy seat," or "כַּפֹּרֶת" (kapporet) in Hebrew, is the cover of the Ark of the Covenant, where God's presence would manifest. The act of overshadowing suggests protection and sanctity, indicating that the mercy seat is a place of divine encounter and atonement. This imagery evokes the idea of God's grace covering and protecting His people, as the cherubim's wings envelop the mercy seat.

The cherubim faced each other
The positioning of the cherubim "faced each other" signifies unity and harmony in the divine order. This orientation reflects the relational aspect of God's nature, as the cherubim's gaze upon one another symbolizes the perfect communion within the Godhead and the invitation for humanity to enter into that fellowship.

looking toward the mercy seat
The focus of the cherubim "looking toward the mercy seat" underscores the centrality of God's mercy and presence. Their gaze directs attention to the place where God would meet with His people, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's presence and the transformative power of His mercy. This orientation serves as a reminder of the reverence and awe due to God, who graciously offers forgiveness and reconciliation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cherubim
Angelic beings often associated with the presence of God. In the context of the Ark of the Covenant, they symbolize divine protection and the holiness of God.

2. Mercy Seat
The cover of the Ark of the Covenant, representing God's throne on earth and His presence among His people. It is the place where atonement was made once a year by the high priest.

3. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's covenant with Israel. It was central to Israel's worship and symbolized God's presence.

4. Bezalel
The craftsman appointed by God to construct the Ark and its components, including the cherubim and the mercy seat, according to divine specifications.

5. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Ark was housed, serving as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Cherubim
The cherubim's posture and position remind us of the reverence and awe due to God. They symbolize the holiness and majesty of God's presence.

The Mercy Seat as a Place of Atonement
The mercy seat represents God's willingness to forgive and reconcile with His people. It points to the ultimate atonement through Jesus Christ.

God's Presence Among His People
The Ark and the mercy seat signify God's desire to dwell among His people, guiding and protecting them. This foreshadows the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers.

Craftsmanship and Obedience
Bezalel's work on the Ark demonstrates the importance of using our God-given talents in obedience to His commands, contributing to His kingdom.

The Role of Sacred Spaces
The tabernacle and its components teach us about the importance of setting apart spaces and times for worship and communion with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the cherubim's posture and position on the mercy seat reflect our attitude toward God's holiness and presence in our lives?

2. In what ways does the concept of the mercy seat as a place of atonement connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus' sacrifice?

3. How can we apply the principle of using our talents for God's glory, as demonstrated by Bezalel, in our daily lives?

4. What does the presence of the Ark in the tabernacle teach us about the importance of creating sacred spaces for worship today?

5. How can the symbolism of the cherubim and the mercy seat enhance our understanding of God's desire to dwell among His people and guide us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3:24
The cherubim are first mentioned as guardians of the Garden of Eden, highlighting their role in protecting sacred spaces.

Leviticus 16:14-15
Describes the Day of Atonement rituals, where the high priest sprinkles blood on the mercy seat, emphasizing its role in atonement and reconciliation with God.

Hebrews 9:5
References the cherubim and the mercy seat, connecting the Old Testament symbolism to the New Testament understanding of Christ's atoning work.