Ezekiel 10:22

Their faces looked like the faces I had seen by the River Kebar. Each creature went straight ahead.

Study Bible

Their faces looked like the faces I had seen by the River Kebar
Their faces
The phrase "their faces" refers to the faces of the cherubim, celestial beings that Ezekiel describes in his vision. In Hebrew, the word for face is "פָּנִים" (panim), which can also mean presence or countenance. This suggests not just a physical appearance but a representation of their divine nature and authority. The faces of the cherubim symbolize the multifaceted nature of God's creation and His omnipresence, as each face represents different aspects of creation and divine attributes.

looked like
This phrase indicates a comparison or resemblance. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, it suggests that the appearance of the cherubim's faces was consistent with what he had previously seen. This consistency underscores the reliability and continuity of divine revelation. The Hebrew root "כָּמוֹ" (kamo) implies likeness or similarity, emphasizing that God's messages and manifestations are coherent and purposeful.

the faces I had seen
This refers back to Ezekiel's earlier vision in Ezekiel 1, where he first encountered the cherubim by the River Kebar. The repetition of this imagery reinforces the authenticity of Ezekiel's prophetic experience. It serves as a reminder that God's revelations are not isolated events but part of a larger, unfolding divine narrative. The consistency in the vision highlights the trustworthiness of God's word and His unchanging nature.

by the River Kebar
The River Kebar is a significant location in Ezekiel's prophetic ministry. It was by this river that Ezekiel received his initial vision of God's glory and the cherubim. Historically, the Kebar River was located in Babylon, where the Israelites were in exile. This setting underscores the theme of God's presence with His people, even in foreign lands and during times of distress. The mention of the River Kebar serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and His ability to reach His people wherever they are, offering hope and assurance of His sovereignty and care.

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 vision.

2. Cherubim
Angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God, depicted with multiple faces and wings.

3. River Kebar
A location in Babylon where Ezekiel received several visions, including the initial vision of the cherubim.

4. Vision of God's Glory
This chapter is part of a larger vision where Ezekiel sees the glory of God departing from the temple in Jerusalem.

5. Babylonian Exile
The historical context in which Ezekiel prophesied, a time when the Israelites were in captivity in Babylon.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Holiness
The cherubim's presence signifies the holiness and majesty of God. As believers, we are called to revere and worship God with awe and respect.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The vision of God's glory departing from the temple is a sobering reminder of His sovereignty and the consequences of disobedience. We must examine our lives and ensure we are living in obedience to God's commands.

Continuity of God's Revelation
The consistency of the imagery of cherubim from Ezekiel to Revelation shows the unchanging nature of God's revelation. This encourages us to trust in the reliability and truth of Scripture.

The Role of Angels
Understanding the role of cherubim helps us appreciate the spiritual realm and the ways God uses His angels to accomplish His purposes.

Hope in Exile
Even in the midst of judgment and exile, God provided visions of His glory to Ezekiel, offering hope and assurance of His ultimate plan for redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the cherubim in Ezekiel 10:22 compare to their initial appearance in Ezekiel 1, and what does this teach us about the consistency of God's revelation?

2. In what ways does the vision of God's glory departing from the temple challenge us to reflect on our own spiritual lives and the presence of God in our communities?

3. How can the imagery of cherubim and their role in God's heavenly court deepen our understanding of God's holiness and majesty?

4. What parallels can we draw between the visions in Ezekiel and the descriptions of heavenly beings in Revelation, and how do these connections strengthen our faith in the Bible's message?

5. How can the hope and assurance given to Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile encourage us in our own times of trial and uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 1
The initial vision of the cherubim by the River Kebar, providing a detailed description of their appearance and movement.

Revelation 4
The vision of the throne room of God, where similar creatures are described, emphasizing the continuity of God's heavenly court.

Exodus 25
The instructions for the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, which included cherubim, symbolizing God's presence.

Isaiah 6
The vision of the seraphim in the temple, highlighting the holiness and majesty of God.

Psalm 18
A poetic depiction of God riding on a cherub, illustrating His power and sovereignty.