Ezekiel 10:19

As I watched, the cherubim lifted their wings and rose up from the ground, with the wheels beside them as they went. And they stopped at the entrance of the east gate of the house of the LORD, with the glory of the God of Israel above them.

Study Bible

And each of the cherubim
The term "cherubim" refers to angelic beings often associated with the presence and majesty of God. In Hebrew, "cherubim" (כְּרוּבִים) is the plural form of "cherub." These beings are depicted as guardians of sacred spaces, such as the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:24) and the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:18-22). Their presence in Ezekiel's vision underscores the holiness and divine authority of the scene. The cherubim symbolize God's omnipresence and His readiness to act in judgment or deliverance.

lifted its wings
The act of lifting wings signifies readiness for movement and action. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, it represents the dynamic and living nature of God's presence. The wings of the cherubim are often associated with swiftness and the ability to transcend earthly limitations, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the execution of His will. The imagery of wings also conveys protection and care, as seen in other scriptural references like Psalm 91:4.

and rose from the ground
This phrase indicates a transition from a state of rest to one of action. The rising of the cherubim from the ground symbolizes a shift in the divine presence, suggesting that God's glory is not static but actively engaged in the affairs of His people. It reflects the movement of God's Spirit, which is not confined to a single location but is dynamic and responsive to the needs of His covenant community.

as they moved out
The movement of the cherubim signifies a departure, which in the context of Ezekiel, is a profound moment of judgment and transition. The departure of God's glory from the temple foreshadows the impending judgment on Jerusalem. It serves as a warning to the people of Israel about the consequences of their disobedience and idolatry. This movement is a call to repentance and a reminder of the seriousness of God's holiness.

with the wheels beside them
The wheels, described in earlier chapters of Ezekiel, are part of the complex vision of God's chariot-throne. They represent the omnidirectional movement of God's presence, indicating that He is not limited by space or time. The wheels beside the cherubim suggest that God's actions are deliberate and purposeful, guided by His divine wisdom and plan. This imagery reinforces the theme of God's sovereignty and His ability to execute His will throughout the earth.

They stood at the entrance to the east gate
The east gate of the temple holds significant symbolic meaning. In biblical tradition, the east often represents the direction of God's glory and the place of new beginnings. The positioning of the cherubim at the east gate signifies a pivotal moment where God's presence is poised to depart from the temple, marking a transition in His relationship with Israel. It serves as a reminder of the hope for restoration and renewal, as God's glory will one day return from the east (Ezekiel 43:1-5).

of the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The temple was a symbol of God's covenant relationship with Israel, and its desecration by idolatry led to the departure of His glory. This phrase emphasizes the gravity of the situation, as the temple was meant to be a place of holiness and communion with God.

and the glory of the God of Israel was above them
The "glory of the God of Israel" is a manifestation of God's divine presence and majesty. In Hebrew, the word for glory, "kavod" (כָּבוֹד), conveys a sense of weightiness and honor. The glory being "above them" signifies God's transcendence and authority over all creation. It serves as a powerful reminder of His faithfulness to His covenant promises, even in the midst of judgment. The presence of God's glory above the cherubim assures the people of Israel that He remains sovereign and will ultimately fulfill His redemptive purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cherubim
Angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God. In Ezekiel's vision, they are depicted as having wings and are closely connected to the divine chariot.

2. Wheels
Part of the divine chariot vision, symbolizing the mobility and omnipresence of God's glory. The wheels move in unison with the cherubim.

3. East Gate
The location in the temple complex where the cherubim and the glory of God pause. The east gate holds significance as a place of entrance and exit, symbolizing transition and movement.

4. House of the LORD
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites and the dwelling place of God's presence.

5. Glory of the God of Israel
Represents God's manifest presence and majesty. In this vision, it is depicted as being above the cherubim, indicating divine authority and holiness.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Mobility
God's presence is not confined to a single location. The vision of the cherubim and wheels illustrates His ability to move and act throughout creation.

Holiness and Reverence
The glory of God demands reverence and awe. As believers, we are called to approach God with a sense of His holiness and majesty.

Transition and Change
The movement to the east gate signifies a transition. In our lives, God may lead us through changes, and we must trust His guidance and timing.

Divine Protection and Guidance
The cherubim, as guardians of God's presence, remind us of His protection and guidance in our lives. We can rely on His presence to lead us.

The Presence of God in Worship
The temple was the center of worship, and God's glory was central to it. In our worship, we should seek to honor and glorify God, recognizing His presence among us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the cherubim and wheels in Ezekiel 10:19 enhance our understanding of God's omnipresence and sovereignty?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a sense of reverence and awe for God's holiness in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of transition, as seen in the movement to the east gate, apply to changes we experience in our spiritual journey?

4. What are some practical ways we can seek and recognize God's guidance and protection in our lives, similar to the role of the cherubim?

5. How can we ensure that our worship, both individually and corporately, reflects the glory and presence of God as described in Ezekiel's vision?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:18-22
Describes the cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant, highlighting their role in symbolizing God's presence.

Isaiah 6:1-4
Isaiah's vision of the Lord's glory, emphasizing the holiness and majesty of God, similar to Ezekiel's vision.

Revelation 4:6-8
John's vision of the heavenly throne room, where living creatures with wings surround God's throne, echoing the imagery of Ezekiel.