Ezekiel 10:2

And the LORD said to the man clothed in linen, "Go inside the wheelwork beneath the cherubim. Fill your hands with burning coals from among the cherubim and scatter them over the city." And as I watched, he went in.

Study Bible

And the LORD said
This phrase emphasizes the divine authority and initiative behind the vision. The Hebrew term for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, highlighting His sovereignty and covenant relationship with Israel. The phrase underscores that the actions to follow are not arbitrary but are commanded by God Himself, reflecting His justice and holiness.

to the man clothed in linen
The "man clothed in linen" is often interpreted as a heavenly being or angel, possibly representing purity and righteousness, as linen garments were typically worn by priests (Exodus 28:39-42). This attire signifies the sacred nature of the task and the purity required to approach the divine presence. Linen, being a fine and pure fabric, symbolizes the holiness and set-apart nature of those who serve God.

Go inside the wheelwork beneath the cherubim
The "wheelwork" refers to the complex and mysterious structure associated with the divine chariot or throne, as described in Ezekiel 1. The "cherubim" are angelic beings that serve as guardians of God's glory. This imagery conveys the majesty and mobility of God's presence, suggesting that His glory is not confined to one place but is dynamic and active. The command to "go inside" indicates a deeper engagement with the divine mysteries and a direct involvement in God's plans.

Fill your hands with coals of fire
"Coals of fire" symbolize judgment and purification. In the ancient Near Eastern context, fire often represented divine presence and judgment. The act of filling one's hands with these coals signifies the readiness to execute God's judgment. This imagery is reminiscent of the altar of incense in the temple, where coals were used in worship, linking judgment with the holiness of God.

from among the cherubim
The coals being "from among the cherubim" suggests that the judgment originates from the very presence of God. The cherubim, as guardians of God's holiness, emphasize that the judgment is not arbitrary but is a response to the violation of God's holiness. This phrase reinforces the idea that divine judgment is rooted in the character and presence of God.

and scatter them over the city
The act of scattering the coals over the city symbolizes the impending judgment on Jerusalem. This action is both a literal and symbolic act of divine retribution for the city's sins. Historically, this foreshadows the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem, serving as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God. It is a call to repentance and a reminder of the seriousness of sin.

And as I watched, he went in
This concluding phrase highlights the obedience and immediacy of the heavenly being's response to God's command. The prophet Ezekiel, as a witness, underscores the certainty and reality of the vision. It serves as a reminder of the faithfulness required in carrying out God's will and the assurance that God's plans will be fulfilled. The phrase invites the reader to reflect on their own response to God's commands and the importance of aligning with His divine purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The sovereign God who commands the events in this vision, demonstrating His authority and judgment.

2. The Man Clothed in Linen
A heavenly figure, possibly an angel, tasked with executing God's judgment. Linen often symbolizes purity and holiness.

3. The Wheelwork
Part of the vision of the divine chariot, representing God's omnipresence and mobility.

4. The Cherubim
Angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God, often seen as guardians of His holiness.

5. The City
Refers to Jerusalem, which is the focus of God's impending judgment due to the people's sin and rebellion.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control of all events, including judgment. His commands are executed by His messengers, emphasizing His ultimate authority.

The Role of Angels
Angels serve as God's messengers and executors of His will. They are involved in both protection and judgment, reflecting God's multifaceted nature.

Symbolism of Fire and Coals
Fire often symbolizes purification and judgment. In our lives, God may use trials to purify and refine us, drawing us closer to His holiness.

Holiness and Purity
The man clothed in linen represents purity. As believers, we are called to live lives of holiness, set apart for God's purposes.

The Seriousness of Sin
The scattering of coals over the city signifies the seriousness of sin and the inevitable judgment that follows. It serves as a warning to turn from sin and seek God's mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the man clothed in linen and the burning coals challenge or affirm your understanding of God's holiness and judgment?

2. In what ways can the role of the cherubim in this passage inspire us to consider the presence and glory of God in our daily lives?

3. How can the concept of God's sovereignty, as seen in this passage, provide comfort and assurance in times of uncertainty or trial?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "purifying fire" in your life. How did it change your relationship with God?

5. How can we apply the lessons of holiness and purity from this passage to our personal walk with Christ, and what other scriptures support this pursuit?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 6
The vision of God's holiness and the burning coals used to purify Isaiah's lips, symbolizing purification and judgment.

Revelation 8
The imagery of burning coals and fire as instruments of divine judgment, showing continuity in God's methods of purifying and judging.

Leviticus 16
The use of coals in the Day of Atonement rituals, highlighting themes of purification and atonement.