Ezekiel 10:21

Each had four faces and four wings, with what looked like human hands under their wings.

Study Bible

Each had four faces
The phrase "each had four faces" refers to the cherubim, celestial beings that Ezekiel describes in his vision. The number four often symbolizes completeness or universality in biblical literature. The four faces—typically understood as those of a man, lion, ox, and eagle—represent the fullness of creation and God's sovereignty over all living creatures. In Hebrew, the word for face is "פָּנִים" (panim), which can also mean presence. This suggests that the cherubim, with their multiple faces, are constantly in the presence of God, able to see and reflect His glory from every direction.

and four wings
The "four wings" of the cherubim signify their swiftness and ability to move in any direction without turning, symbolizing the omnipresence and omnipotence of God. Wings in biblical imagery often denote protection and divine intervention. The Hebrew word for wing is "כָּנָף" (kanaph), which can also imply covering or shelter, suggesting that these beings are under God's command, ready to execute His will and provide protection.

and under their wings was the form of human hands
The "form of human hands" under the wings of the cherubim indicates the capability for action and interaction with the physical world. Hands are a symbol of power, skill, and agency. In Hebrew, the word for hand is "יָד" (yad), which often represents strength and authority. This detail emphasizes that the cherubim are not only spiritual beings but also have the ability to influence the earthly realm, acting as agents of God's will. The presence of human hands suggests a connection between the divine and human, highlighting the role of cherubim as intermediaries between God and His creation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the author of the book and the one receiving the visions from God.

2. Cherubim
Angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God, often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces.

3. Wheels
Part of the vision of God's chariot-throne, symbolizing divine mobility and omnipresence.

4. Jerusalem
The city where God's glory was departing from, as seen in Ezekiel's vision, symbolizing judgment and the consequences of Israel's sin.

5. The Glory of the LORD
Represents God's presence, which is departing from the temple due to the people's unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Holiness
The vision of the cherubim and wheels underscores God's supreme authority and the holiness that surrounds His presence.

The Consequences of Sin
The departure of God's glory from the temple serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unfaithfulness and idolatry.

God's Omnipresence
The wheels within wheels symbolize God's ability to be present everywhere, reminding us that He is not confined to one place.

Hope in Restoration
Even as God's glory departs, the vision foreshadows eventual restoration, encouraging believers to trust in God's redemptive plan.

The Role of Angels
The cherubim illustrate the role of angels as servants and messengers of God, emphasizing the spiritual realities that surround us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the vision of the cherubim and wheels in Ezekiel 10:21 enhance our understanding of God's nature and character?

2. In what ways does the departure of God's glory from the temple challenge us to examine our own lives and relationship with God?

3. How can the imagery of God's omnipresence in Ezekiel's vision encourage us in times of uncertainty or difficulty?

4. What parallels can we draw between Ezekiel's vision and the visions of God's throne in other parts of Scripture, such as Isaiah and Revelation?

5. How does understanding the role of cherubim in Scripture impact our view of spiritual realities and the unseen world?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:18-22
The cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant highlight their role as guardians of God's holiness.

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

Revelation 4:6-8
The living creatures around God's throne in Revelation echo the cherubim in Ezekiel's vision, underscoring the continuity of God's heavenly court.

Psalm 18:10
Describes God riding on a cherub, illustrating His sovereignty and power.

2 Kings 2:11
Elijah's ascent to heaven in a whirlwind connects to the theme of divine transport and presence.