Ezekiel 11:22

Then the cherubim, with the wheels beside them, spread their wings, and the glory of the God of Israel was above them.

Study Bible

Then 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). In Ezekiel's vision, the cherubim symbolize the divine presence and the holiness of God. Their role as protectors and carriers of God's throne underscores the transcendence and sovereignty of God over all creation.

with the wheels beside them
The "wheels" are part of the complex vision of God's chariot-throne described in Ezekiel 1. The Hebrew word for "wheels" is "אוֹפַנִּים" (ophanim), which suggests movement and the omnipresence of God. The wheels, full of eyes, indicate God's all-seeing nature and His ability to move and act throughout the earth. This imagery emphasizes that God's presence is not confined to a single location but is dynamic and active in the world.

spread their wings
The act of spreading wings signifies readiness for movement and action. In the context of Ezekiel's vision, it represents the cherubim's role in facilitating the movement of God's glory. The wings also symbolize protection and the covering of God's holiness. This imagery is reminiscent of the wings of the cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant, which covered the mercy seat, highlighting God's mercy and the reverence due to His presence.

and the glory of the God of Israel
The "glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod) of God is a central theme in Ezekiel's visions. It represents the manifest presence and majesty of God. In the Hebrew Bible, God's glory is often associated with light, power, and holiness. The phrase "the God of Israel" reaffirms the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people. Despite Israel's rebellion and the impending judgment, God's glory remains a testament to His faithfulness and the hope of restoration.

was above them
The positioning of God's glory "above them" signifies His supreme authority and transcendence. It indicates that God's presence is exalted and sovereign over all creation, including the cherubim and the wheels. This imagery serves as a reminder of God's ultimate control over the events of history and His ability to bring about His divine purposes. It reassures the faithful that, despite the chaos and judgment depicted in Ezekiel, God's glory and plan for redemption remain steadfast and unshakable.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cherubim
Angelic beings often associated with the presence and glory of God. In Ezekiel, they are depicted as part of God's divine chariot-throne.

2. Wheels
Part of the vision of God's chariot-throne, symbolizing movement and the omnipresence of God. The wheels are described as being full of eyes, indicating divine awareness and insight.

3. Glory of the God of Israel
Represents God's majestic presence and holiness. In Ezekiel, the glory of God is seen departing from the temple, signifying judgment and the withdrawal of His presence due to Israel's sin.

4. Ezekiel
A prophet during the Babylonian exile, tasked with delivering God's messages of judgment and hope to the Israelites.

5. Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites in Jerusalem, which is significant in Ezekiel's visions as the place from which God's glory departs.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Presence
The vision of the cherubim and wheels emphasizes God's sovereignty and His ability to be present everywhere. Despite the physical temple's destruction, God's presence is not confined to a building.

Judgment and Hope
The departure of God's glory signifies judgment, but it also sets the stage for eventual restoration. God's discipline is always coupled with the promise of hope and renewal.

Holiness and Reverence
The imagery of God's glory should inspire awe and reverence. Believers are called to live in a way that honors God's holiness, recognizing His majesty and authority.

Spiritual Insight and Awareness
The eyes on the wheels symbolize divine insight. Christians are encouraged to seek spiritual discernment and awareness in their daily lives, aligning their vision with God's perspective.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the cherubim and wheels in Ezekiel 11:22 enhance our understanding of God's nature and presence?

2. In what ways does the departure of God's glory from the temple serve as both a warning and a promise for believers today?

3. How can the vision of God's glory in Ezekiel inspire us to live lives of holiness and reverence?

4. What parallels can you draw between Ezekiel's vision and other biblical accounts of God's throne room, and how do these connections deepen your understanding of God's majesty?

5. How can we cultivate spiritual insight and awareness in our daily lives, and what practical steps can we take to align our vision with God's?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25
Describes the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, which features cherubim, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

Isaiah 6
Isaiah's vision of the Lord seated on a throne, surrounded by seraphim, parallels Ezekiel's vision of God's glory and the heavenly beings.

Revelation 4
John's vision of the throne room of God, with living creatures and the presence of God's glory, echoes the imagery found in Ezekiel.