Ezekiel 10:1

And I looked and saw above the expanse, above the heads of the cherubim, the likeness of a throne of sapphire.

Study Bible

Then I looked
The phrase "Then I looked" indicates a moment of divine revelation. Ezekiel, a prophet during the Babylonian exile, is granted a vision from God. The Hebrew root for "looked" is "ra'ah," which means to see or perceive. This is not merely a physical act of seeing but a spiritual insight granted by God. It emphasizes the importance of being spiritually attentive to God's revelations.

and saw above the expanse
The "expanse" refers to the firmament or the sky, a concept introduced in Genesis 1:6-8. In Ezekiel's vision, this expanse is a boundary between the earthly and the divine realms. The Hebrew word "raqia" is used here, suggesting a vast, stretched-out space. This imagery underscores the transcendence and majesty of God, who dwells above the heavens.

that was over the heads of the cherubim
Cherubim are angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God. In the Hebrew Bible, they are often 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). The positioning of the expanse over their heads signifies their role as intermediaries between God and humanity, highlighting the holiness and separateness of God.

something like a throne
The "throne" symbolizes authority, sovereignty, and divine rule. In Hebrew, the word "kisse" is used, which denotes a seat of honor and power. This imagery is consistent with other biblical visions of God's throne, such as in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4. It serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority over all creation and His rightful place as King.

of sapphire
Sapphire, a precious gemstone, is often associated with beauty, purity, and heavenly glory. The Hebrew word "sappir" is used, which can refer to a brilliant blue stone. This description of the throne emphasizes the splendor and holiness of God's presence. In Exodus 24:10, a similar vision is described, where the pavement under God's feet is like sapphire, reinforcing the connection between divine revelation and heavenly majesty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
The prophet and priest who is the author of the book. He is in exile in Babylon and receives visions from God.

2. Cherubim
Angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God. In Ezekiel's vision, they are seen as part of the divine chariot.

3. Expanse
The firmament or sky above the cherubim, symbolizing the separation between the divine and earthly realms.

4. Sapphire Stone
A precious stone, often associated with divine presence and authority. In this vision, it resembles a throne, indicating God's sovereignty.

5. Throne
Represents God's authority and rule. The appearance of the throne above the cherubim signifies God's supreme power and presence.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
The vision of the throne above the cherubim reminds us of God's ultimate authority over all creation. We are called to trust in His sovereign will, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Divine Presence
The sapphire stone and the throne symbolize God's holy presence. As believers, we are invited to seek and dwell in His presence through prayer and worship.

Holiness and Reverence
The imagery of the cherubim and the throne calls us to approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His holiness and majesty.

Vision and Obedience
Ezekiel's vision encourages us to be attentive to God's revelations in our lives and to respond with obedience and faithfulness.

Heavenly Perspective
The expanse above the cherubim serves as a reminder to maintain a heavenly perspective, focusing on eternal truths rather than temporary earthly concerns.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the sapphire stone and throne in Ezekiel 10:1 enhance your understanding of God's character and authority?

2. In what ways can you cultivate a greater awareness of God's presence in your daily life, similar to the vision Ezekiel experienced?

3. How do the descriptions of cherubim in Ezekiel's vision compare to other biblical accounts of angelic beings, and what can we learn from these comparisons?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to trust in God's sovereignty despite challenging circumstances. How did this experience shape your faith?

5. How can the concept of maintaining a heavenly perspective influence your priorities and decisions in your current life situation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 24:10
Describes a vision of God where the pavement under His feet is like sapphire stone, connecting the divine presence with the imagery in Ezekiel.

Revelation 4:2-3
John’s vision of a throne in heaven, surrounded by a rainbow resembling an emerald, parallels the imagery of divine authority and majesty.

Isaiah 6:1-4
Isaiah's vision of the Lord seated on a high and exalted throne, emphasizing God's holiness and glory.

Psalm 99:1
Speaks of the Lord reigning and being enthroned above the cherubim, highlighting His sovereignty.