◄ Ezekiel 10 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
God’s Glory Exits the Temple 1And I looked and saw above the expanse, above the heads of the cherubim, the likeness of a throne of sapphire. 2And 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. 3Now when the man went in, the cherubim were standing on the south side of the temple, and a cloud filled the inner court. 4Then the glory of the LORD rose from above the cherubim and stood over the threshold of the temple. The temple was filled with the cloud, and the court was filled with the brightness of the glory of the LORD. 5The sound of the wings of the cherubim could be heard as far as the outer court, like the voice of God Almightya when He speaks. 6When the LORD commanded the man clothed in linen, saying, “Take fire from within the wheelwork, from among the cherubim,” the man went in and stood beside a wheel. 7Then one of the cherubim reached out his hand and took some of the fire that was among them. And he put it into the hands of the man clothed in linen, who received it and went out. 8(The cherubim appeared to have the form of human hands under their wings.) 9Then I looked and saw four wheels beside the cherubim, one wheel beside each cherub. And the wheels gleamed like a beryl stone. 10As for their appearance, all four had the same form, like a wheel within a wheel. 11When they moved, they would go in any of the four directions, without turning as they moved. For wherever the head faced, the cherubim would go in that direction, without turning as they moved. 12Their entire bodies, including their backs, hands, and wings, were full of eyes all around, as were their four wheels. 13I heard the wheels being called “the whirling wheels.” 14Each of the cherubim had four faces: the first face was that of a cherub, the second that of a man, the third that of a lion, and the fourth that of an eagle. 15Then the cherubim rose upward. These were the living creatures I had seen by the River Kebar. 16When the cherubim moved, the wheels moved beside them, and even when they spread their wings to rise from the ground, the wheels did not veer away from their side. 17When the cherubim stood still, the wheels also stood still, and when they ascended, the wheels ascended with them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels. 18Then the glory of the LORD moved away from the threshold of the temple and stood above the cherubim. 19As 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. 20These were the living creatures I had seen beneath the God of Israel by the River Kebar, and I knew that they were cherubim. 21Each had four faces and four wings, with what looked like human hands under their wings. 22Their faces looked like the faces I had seen by the River Kebar. Each creature went straight ahead. Footnotes: 5 a Hebrew El-Shaddai Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezekiel 10 Summary God's Glory Exits the Temple Verses 1–2 – The Sapphire Throne and the Scattering of Fire Ezekiel sees “above the expanse over the heads of the cherubim something like a sapphire stone, resembling a throne” (v. 1). God instructs the man clothed in linen, “Take fire from among the whirling wheels” (v. 2), signaling judgment that will soon fall on Jerusalem. Verses 3–5 – Glory Filling the Inner Court “The glory of the LORD rose above the cherubim” as a cloud fills the court and the sound of the cherubim’s wings echoes “like the voice of God Almighty” (vv. 3–5). Heaven’s presence overwhelms the earthly temple. Verses 6–8 – The Cherub’s Hand in the Fire When the linen-clothed messenger reaches in, a cherub hands him fiery coals. Ezekiel notes a human-like hand under the cherubim’s wings (vv. 6–8), underscoring that angelic beings execute God’s will with care and precision. Verses 9–13 – The Wheels within Wheels Ezekiel again sees “a wheel beside each cherub” (v. 9). The wheels “gleamed like topaz” and could move “in any of the four directions…the rims were full of eyes all around” (vv. 11–12). The prophet now hears their name: “whirling wheels” (v. 13). Verses 14–17 – Four Faces and Unified Movement Each cherub bears four faces—cherub, human, lion, and eagle—revealing a fullness of created strength, intelligence, royalty, and swiftness (v. 14). Wherever the Spirit leads, wheels and cherubim move together (vv. 15–17). Verses 18–19 – Glory Leaves the Threshold “The glory of the LORD departed from the threshold of the temple and stood over the cherubim” (v. 18). The cherubim rise and pause “at the entrance of the east gate of the LORD’s house” while glory hovers above (v. 19), a heartbreaking step in God’s withdrawal. Verses 20–22 – Cherubim Identified Ezekiel finally confirms, “These were the living creatures I had seen beneath the God of Israel by the Kebar River” (v. 20). He reiterates their faces, wings, and eyes: “Each had four faces…and the likeness of human hands” (vv. 21–22). Ezekiel 10, a vivid chapter of prophetic visions, presents Ezekiel's divine encounter witnessing God's glory departing from the temple. This profound spectacle serves as a divine judgement signifying the abandonment of Jerusalem due to its inhabitants' continuous disobedience. God's powerful cherubim, the four living creatures filled with eyes, play a significant role in this chapter. The Glory Departs Stage by Stage • Ezekiel 9:3 – glory moves from the Most Holy Place to the threshold. • Ezekiel 10:18-19 – glory leaves the threshold, halts above the cherubim at the east gate. • Ezekiel 11:22-23 – glory ascends and settles on the Mount of Olives. God’s steady withdrawal shows patience; He leaves in stages, giving His people room to repent. The Heavenly Throne-Bearers • Cherubim first appear guarding Eden’s gate (Genesis 3:24). • In Exodus 25:18-22 they overshadow the mercy seat. • Revelation 4:6-8 echoes Ezekiel’s multi-faced beings. Their constant eyes picture God’s all-seeing oversight; the four faces hint that every corner of creation is under His command. Historical Setting: 592 BC, Jerusalem under Siege Shadow Ezekiel dates this vision to the sixth year of exile (Ezekiel 8:1). Babylon’s armies have not yet destroyed the city (586 BC is still ahead), but the spiritual ruin is already complete. The vision explains why the physical fall will be unavoidable. Symbolism of Fire and Coals Fire both purifies and judges. Isaiah’s lips were cleansed with a coal (Isaiah 6:6-7). Here, fire is scattered over the city (Ezekiel 10:2), announcing judgment rather than cleansing. Revelation 8:5 uses a similar image when the angel hurls fire upon the earth. Wheels Full of Eyes: Mobility and Omniscience God’s throne is not limited to Jerusalem. The wheels can go “in any of the four directions” (v. 11), emphasizing that the LORD rules everywhere. The eyes testify to perfect knowledge (2 Chronicles 16:9). Archaeological Glimpses of the Temple Excavations on the Temple Mount’s southwest hill confirm the grandeur of Herod’s later structure, yet Solomon’s earlier First Temple aligned with Ezekiel’s era. Ezekiel’s description of inner and outer courts matches rectangular courts, gates, and thresholds uncovered in Near Eastern temples from the 9th-6th centuries BC. Echoes in the New Testament • John 12:41 says Isaiah saw Jesus’ glory, linking Old Testament throne visions to Christ. • Luke 19:37-44 places Jesus on the Mount of Olives, the very spot where Ezekiel saw departing glory, hinting at glory returning in Christ. • Acts 7:48-49 reminds that “the Most High does not dwell in houses made by human hands,” a truth Ezekiel already grasped in the mobile throne. Lessons for Today 1. God’s holiness is relentless—He will leave defiled spaces rather than compromise. 2. Judgment always follows extended mercy; the staged departure shows patience, not haste. 3. The Lord rules beyond geography; no nation can claim a monopoly on His presence. 4. True worship hinges on a clean heart rather than an impressive building (Psalm 24:3-4). 5. Hope remains: the same glory that left in Ezekiel 10 will return (Ezekiel 43:1-5), foreshadowed in Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). Cross-Scripture Connections at a Glance • Genesis 3:24 – cherubim guard holiness. • Isaiah 6 – throne vision with fiery coal. • 2 Kings 25 – historical fall of Jerusalem. • Daniel 7 – throne with wheels of fire. • Revelation 4-5 – four living creatures worship God. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 6:1-4 Another vision of God's glory and holiness, emphasizing the need for reverence and purity. 1 Samuel 4:21-22 The departure of God's glory from Israel, illustrating the consequences of disobedience. Revelation 4:6-8 A New Testament vision of God's throne, highlighting the continuity of God's majesty and holiness. 2 Corinthians 3:18 The transformative power of beholding God's glory, leading to spiritual growth and renewal. Teaching Points The Vision of the Cherubim and Wheels Ezekiel 10:1-2 describes the vision of the cherubim and the wheels, emphasizing the majesty and complexity of God's heavenly throne. Then I looked, and I saw above the expanse over the heads of the cherubim something like a throne of sapphire appearing above them (Ezekiel 10:1). The Glory of the Lord The chapter highlights the glory of the Lord, which is both awe-inspiring and terrifying. The glory of God is depicted as a consuming fire, demonstrating His holiness and power (Ezekiel 10:4). The Departure of God's Glory A central theme is the departure of God's glory from the temple, symbolizing His judgment on Israel for their persistent sin and idolatry. Then the glory of the LORD moved away from the threshold of the temple and stood above the cherubim (Ezekiel 10:18). The Role of the Cherubim The cherubim are depicted as guardians of God's holiness, and their movements are directed by the Spirit of God, illustrating divine order and purpose (Ezekiel 10:16-17). Judgment and Hope While the vision is primarily one of judgment, it also contains a message of hope. The departure of God's glory is not permanent, and it foreshadows the eventual restoration and return of His presence. Practical Applications Reverence for God's Holiness Recognize the holiness of God and approach Him with reverence and awe, understanding that sin cannot coexist with His presence. Self-Examination Regularly examine your life for areas of disobedience or idolatry that may hinder your relationship with God. Hope in Restoration Even in times of judgment or discipline, hold onto the hope of restoration and renewal through God's grace and mercy. Obedience to God's Spirit Like the cherubim, be attentive and obedient to the leading of the Holy Spirit in your life. People 1. The LORD (YHWH) The central figure in the vision, representing the divine presence and glory. The LORD's glory is depicted as departing from the temple, symbolizing judgment and the withdrawal of divine favor. The Hebrew name used here is יְהוָה (YHWH), often translated as "LORD" in English Bibles. 2. The Cherubim These are angelic beings associated with the presence of God. In Ezekiel 10, they are described in detail, with four faces and four wings, and they are instrumental in the vision of the divine chariot. The Hebrew term כְּרוּבִים (keruvim) is used, which is often translated as "cherubim." 3. The Man Clothed in Linen This figure is instructed by the LORD to take coals from between the cherubim and scatter them over the city. He is a messenger or agent of divine action. The Hebrew word for "man" here is אִישׁ (ish), indicating a human-like figure, though his exact identity is not specified. Places 1. The Temple The central location of the vision, where the glory of the LORD is initially present. The temple represents the dwelling place of God among His people. In Hebrew, the word for temple is "הֵיכָל" (heikal), which signifies a large building or palace, often used for the house of God. 2. The Inner Court This is the area within the temple complex where the cherubim and the glory of the LORD are seen. The inner court is a more sacred area, closer to the Holy of Holies. The Hebrew term "חָצֵר" (chatser) refers to a courtyard or enclosure. 3. The Threshold of the Temple The threshold is the entryway or doorway of the temple. In the vision, the glory of the LORD moves to the threshold, indicating a transition. The Hebrew word "מִפְתָּן" (miftan) means threshold or entrance. 4. The East Gate of the LORD’s House The east gate is significant as it is the direction from which the glory of the LORD departs. Gates in ancient cities and temples were crucial for access and security. The Hebrew word "שַׁעַר" (sha'ar) means gate. Events 1. Vision of the Glowing Throne Ezekiel sees a vision of a throne made of sapphire above the expanse over the heads of the cherubim. This throne is described as having the appearance of a sapphire stone, indicating its divine and majestic nature (Ezekiel 10:1). 2. Command to Scatter Coals The LORD instructs the man clothed in linen to go between the wheels beneath the cherubim, fill his hands with burning coals, and scatter them over the city. This act symbolizes judgment and purification (Ezekiel 10:2). 3. The Glory of the LORD Moves The glory of the LORD moves from above the cherubim to the threshold of the temple, filling the house with a cloud and the court with the brightness of the LORD’s glory. This signifies the presence and impending departure of God's glory from the temple (Ezekiel 10:3-4). 4. Sound of the Cherubim’s Wings The sound of the cherubim’s wings is heard as far as the outer court, described as the voice of God Almighty when He speaks. This emphasizes the power and authority of God’s presence (Ezekiel 10:5). 5. The Man Clothed in Linen Takes Coals The man clothed in linen goes in and stands beside a wheel, and one of the cherubim stretches out his hand to the fire among them, takes some, and puts it into the hands of the man clothed in linen, who then takes it and goes out (Ezekiel 10:6-7). 6. Description of the Cherubim The cherubim are described in detail, each having four faces: the face of a cherub, a man, a lion, and an eagle. This description highlights their complex and multifaceted nature, reflecting the divine attributes they represent (Ezekiel 10:8-14). 7. The Wheels Beside the Cherubim The wheels beside the cherubim are described as having the appearance of a wheel within a wheel, full of eyes all around. This symbolizes the omniscience and omnipresence of God (Ezekiel 10:9-12). 8. The Spirit Moves the Cherubim The Spirit of God moves the cherubim, and wherever the Spirit would go, the cherubim would go, indicating their complete obedience to the divine will (Ezekiel 10:15-17). 9. The Glory of the LORD Departs The glory of the LORD departs from the threshold of the temple and stands above the cherubim. The cherubim lift their wings and rise from the earth, signifying the departure of God’s presence from the temple, a profound moment of judgment and transition (Ezekiel 10:18-19). 10. The Vision Ends The vision concludes with the cherubim standing at the entrance of the east gate of the LORD’s house, and the glory of the God of Israel above them. This marks the end of the vision and underscores the seriousness of the divine message conveyed to Ezekiel (Ezekiel 10:20-22). Lessons from Ezekiel 10 1. The Glory of God is Central In Ezekiel 10, we witness a vivid depiction of God's glory departing from the temple. This serves as a powerful reminder that the glory of God is central to our lives and worship. As it says in Ezekiel 10:4, "Then the glory of the LORD rose from above the cherubim and moved to the threshold of the temple." Our lives should reflect His glory, and we should strive to keep His presence at the center of all we do. 2. God's Sovereignty is Unquestionable Ezekiel 10 illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over all creation. The vision of the cherubim and the wheels within wheels (Ezekiel 10:9-10) shows that God is in control of every detail. This should encourage us to trust in His perfect plan, even when we don't understand it fully. Remember, "The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all" (Psalm 103:19). 3. The Importance of Obedience The departure of God's glory from the temple was a consequence of Israel's disobedience. This chapter reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's commands. As Jesus said, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). Obedience is a reflection of our love and reverence for God. 4. God's Presence is Not Limited to a Place Ezekiel 10 shows that God's presence is not confined to a physical location. The glory of God leaving the temple signifies that He is not bound by walls or structures. This is a comforting truth, as it means God is with us wherever we go. "Where can I go to escape Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence?" (Psalm 139:7). 5. The Reality of Divine Judgment The vision in Ezekiel 10 is a sobering reminder of the reality of divine judgment. God's holiness demands justice, and He will not tolerate sin indefinitely. This should motivate us to live righteously and share the message of salvation through Christ, who "bore our sins in His body on the tree" (1 Peter 2:24). 6. The Role of Intercession Ezekiel, as a prophet, stood in the gap for the people, highlighting the importance of intercession. We are called to pray for others, lifting them up before God. "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people" (1 Timothy 2:1). 7. The Vision of Hope Even in the midst of judgment, Ezekiel's vision offers hope. The departure of God's glory was not permanent. It foreshadows the promise of restoration and the coming of Christ, who is "the hope of glory" (Colossians 1:27). We can hold onto this hope, knowing that God is faithful to His promises. 8. The Call to Repentance Ezekiel 10 serves as a call to repentance. The Israelites' failure to turn from their ways led to the departure of God's glory. We are reminded to examine our hearts and turn back to God, for "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins" (1 John 1:9). 9. The Power of God's Word The visions and messages given to Ezekiel demonstrate the power of God's Word. It is living and active, able to transform lives. As we read and meditate on Scripture, we are equipped to face life's challenges. "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105). 10. The Assurance of God's Faithfulness Finally, Ezekiel 10 reassures us of God's faithfulness. Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remained true to His covenant. This encourages us to trust in His steadfast love and faithfulness, knowing that "He who promised is faithful" (Hebrews 10:23). Let us hold fast to this assurance as we walk in His ways. Topics 1. The Vision of the Cherubim and the Glory of the LORD Ezekiel 10 begins with a continuation of the vision of the cherubim, which are described as living creatures supporting the throne of God. The Hebrew word for cherubim, "כְּרוּבִים" (keruvim), indicates these are angelic beings associated with the divine presence. The vision emphasizes the holiness and majesty of God. 2. The Command to Scatter Coals over the City In Ezekiel 10:2, the man clothed in linen is instructed to take burning coals from between the cherubim and scatter them over the city. This act symbolizes judgment upon Jerusalem. The Hebrew term for coals, "גַּחֶלֶת" (gachelet), signifies purification and judgment. 3. The Appearance of the Glory of the LORD The glory of the LORD is described as filling the temple and the court. The Hebrew word for glory, "כָּבוֹד" (kavod), conveys the weightiness and splendor of God's presence. This emphasizes the seriousness of God's impending judgment and His sovereign authority. 4. The Description of the Cherubim Ezekiel provides a detailed description of the cherubim, noting their four faces and four wings. The Hebrew text uses "פָּנִים" (panim) for faces, highlighting the multifaceted nature of these creatures, which symbolize God's omniscience and omnipresence. 5. The Movement of the Wheels The vision includes wheels that move in unison with the cherubim, described as having the appearance of beryl. The Hebrew word "אוֹפַן" (ofan) for wheels suggests the complexity and divine orchestration of God's plans. The wheels' movement signifies the dynamic and purposeful nature of God's actions. 6. The Departure of the Glory of the LORD from the Temple The chapter concludes with the glory of the LORD departing from the threshold of the temple, signifying the withdrawal of God's presence due to the people's sin. The Hebrew term "יָצָא" (yatsa) for departure underscores the gravity of this event, as God's protective presence leaves the temple. Themes 1. The Glory of the LORD Departing the Temple In Ezekiel 10, a central theme is the departure of the glory of the LORD from the temple. This signifies God's judgment and the withdrawal of His presence due to the people's persistent idolatry and sin. The Hebrew word for "glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod) emphasizes the weight and significance of God's presence, which is now leaving the temple, indicating a profound shift in His relationship with Israel. 2. The Vision of the Cherubim The chapter describes a vision of cherubim, which are angelic beings associated with the presence and majesty of God. The detailed description of the cherubim, including their faces and wings, underscores the holiness and power of God. The Hebrew term for cherubim (כְּרוּבִים, keruvim) reflects their role as guardians of divine sanctity. 3. The Role of the Wheels The vision includes wheels that accompany the cherubim, symbolizing the dynamic and omnipresent nature of God's spirit. The wheels' ability to move in any direction without turning represents God's sovereignty and the all-encompassing reach of His will. The Hebrew word for "wheel" (אוֹפַן, ophan) suggests a mechanism of divine movement and control. 4. Judgment and Cleansing The chapter also highlights themes of judgment and cleansing. The man clothed in linen is instructed to take coals from between the cherubim and scatter them over the city, symbolizing purification through judgment. This act reflects God's intention to cleanse His people and restore holiness, even through severe measures. 5. The Sovereignty of God Throughout Ezekiel 10, the sovereignty of God is a prevailing theme. The vision demonstrates that God is in control of all events, including the judgment of Jerusalem. His presence, though departing, is still active and authoritative, guiding the course of history according to His divine plan. The Hebrew concept of God's sovereignty (מַלְכוּת, malkut) is evident in His command over the cherubim and the unfolding vision. Prayer Points Pray for a deeper understanding and reverence for God's holiness in your life. Ask God to reveal any areas of sin or idolatry that need to be addressed. Seek God's guidance and strength to live in obedience to His Spirit. Thank God for His grace and the hope of restoration through Jesus Christ. Pray for the church to be a place where God's glory dwells and is honored. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ezekiel 10:12, how can “eyes all around” on the wheels align with any natural or scientific explanation? 2. In Ezekiel 10:14, why do the cherubim have four faces, seemingly inconsistent with other biblical angelic descriptions? 3. In Ezekiel 10:2, does any historical or archaeological record validate the vision of coals scattering over the city? 4. How does the intricate temple imagery in Ezekiel 10 relate to known architecture and practices during the Babylonian captivity? 5. If Ezekiel 10:18 describes God’s glory leaving the temple, why is there no external historical mention of such a significant event? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do the visuals in Ezekiel's vision emphasize God's omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence? 2. What do the cherubim symbolize in the vision? 3. Why does God command the man in linen to scatter burning coals over the city of Jerusalem? 4. What is the significance of God's glory departing the Temple? 5. How does this vision relate to the situation in Jerusalem during Ezekiel's time? 6. What could the departure of God's glory mean for believers today when they stray from their faith? 7. In what ways does this chapter challenge your understanding of God's judgement? 8. How do the movements of the cherubim and the wheels reflect the character of God? 9. How can this vision inform our understanding of God's response to disobedience and sin? 10. How does this chapter highlight the importance of obedience and faith in God? 11. In your own life, have you ever felt a similar sense of God's departure due to disobedience? How did you respond? 12. What can the church today learn from the vision of the glory of the Lord departing the temple? 13. How does the vision of God's glory leaving the temple impact your view of God's presence in your life? 14. Can you relate this vision to any modern scenarios where societies are straying from God's path? 15. What steps can individuals and communities take to ensure they are inviting, not driving away, God's presence? 16. How does this chapter of Ezekiel influence your understanding of divine judgment? 17. If you were Ezekiel, how would you have felt witnessing this vision? 18. How does Ezekiel's reaction to the vision instruct us about the appropriate response to divine revelations? 19. How can we ensure that our places of worship remain filled with God's glory? 20. Given the symbolism in Ezekiel's vision, what parallels can you draw with other parts of the Bible where God's glory is seen departing or returning? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions