Ezekiel 10:18

Then the glory of the LORD moved away from the threshold of the temple and stood above the cherubim.

Study Bible

Then the glory of the LORD
The phrase "the glory of the LORD" in Hebrew is "כְּבוֹד־יְהוָה" (kavod-YHWH). The term "glory" (kavod) signifies weightiness, honor, and splendor. In the context of Ezekiel, it represents the manifest presence of God, which is both awe-inspiring and terrifying. Historically, the glory of the LORD was associated with the tabernacle and the temple, where God's presence dwelt among His people. This glory is a central theme in Ezekiel, symbolizing God's holiness and His relationship with Israel. The departure of this glory signifies a profound moment of judgment and sorrow, as it indicates God's withdrawal from the temple due to the people's persistent sin.

moved away from the threshold of the temple
The "threshold of the temple" refers to the entrance or the doorway of the temple, a sacred space where God's presence was most intimately encountered. The Hebrew word for "threshold" is "מִפְתָּן" (miftan), which denotes a place of transition. The movement of God's glory away from this threshold is symbolic of a significant shift. It marks the beginning of God's departure from the temple, a place that was meant to be His dwelling among His people. This movement is a direct consequence of Israel's idolatry and rebellion, highlighting the seriousness of their sin and the resulting separation from God.

and stood above the cherubim
The "cherubim" are angelic beings often associated with the presence and throne of God. In Hebrew, "כְּרוּבִים" (keruvim) are depicted as guardians of sacred spaces, as seen in the Garden of Eden and the Ark of the Covenant. In Ezekiel's vision, the cherubim are part of the divine chariot, symbolizing God's mobility and sovereignty. The glory of the LORD standing above the cherubim indicates that God's presence is not confined to the temple; He is sovereign and can move as He wills. This imagery serves as a reminder of God's holiness and the reverence due to Him, even as He prepares to leave the temple due to the people's unfaithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Glory of the LORD
Represents God's divine presence and majesty, often depicted as a radiant light or cloud. In this context, it signifies God's presence departing from the temple.

2. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites in Jerusalem, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people. The departure of God's glory indicates a significant spiritual and national crisis.

3. The Cherubim
Angelic beings associated with the presence and throne of God. In Ezekiel's vision, they are depicted as carrying the glory of God, emphasizing their role as divine attendants.

4. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages to the Israelites. His visions often contain symbolic imagery conveying God's judgment and future restoration.

5. The Threshold
The entrance of the temple, symbolizing the boundary between the sacred and the profane. The movement of God's glory from this point signifies a withdrawal of His presence from the people.

Teaching Points

The Significance of God's Presence
God's presence is central to the life and worship of His people. The departure of His glory from the temple serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience.

The Role of the Temple
The temple was not just a physical structure but a symbol of God's covenant relationship with Israel. Its desecration and the departure of God's glory reflect a broken relationship that needs restoration.

The Importance of Holiness
The movement of God's glory away from the temple underscores the necessity of holiness and reverence in worship. It challenges believers to examine their own lives and the purity of their worship.

Hope for Restoration
While Ezekiel's vision depicts judgment, it also points to the hope of restoration. God's ultimate plan includes the return of His presence, fulfilled in Christ and the promise of the New Jerusalem.

The Role of Prophetic Vision
Ezekiel's vision serves as both a warning and a promise. It encourages believers to heed God's warnings and trust in His promises for future restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the departure of God's glory from the temple signify about the spiritual state of Israel at that time?

2. How does the role of the cherubim in Ezekiel's vision compare to their role in other parts of Scripture, such as Genesis and Revelation?

3. In what ways can the church today ensure that it remains a place where God's presence dwells?

4. How does the concept of God's glory departing challenge us to reflect on our personal and communal worship practices?

5. What hope does Ezekiel's vision offer for believers today, and how does it connect to the promises found in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40
Describes the glory of the LORD filling the tabernacle, highlighting the significance of God's presence among His people.

1 Samuel 4
The departure of the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's presence, parallels the departure of God's glory in Ezekiel.

Revelation 21
The ultimate restoration of God's presence with His people, contrasting the departure in Ezekiel with the promise of eternal communion.