Ezekiel 28:14

You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for I had ordained you. You were on the holy mountain of God; you walked among the fiery stones.

Study Bible

You were anointed
The term "anointed" in Hebrew is "mashach," which signifies being set apart for a special purpose or role. In the biblical context, anointing often denotes divine selection and empowerment. This phrase suggests a high calling and a sacred duty bestowed by God Himself. The anointing implies a consecration, indicating that the subject was chosen for a unique and holy task, reflecting God's sovereign will and purpose.

as a guardian cherub
The "cherub" is a type of angelic being, often associated with the presence and glory of God. In Hebrew, "kerub" is a creature of great power and beauty, tasked with protecting the sanctity of God's domain. The role of a "guardian" implies a responsibility to safeguard and oversee, suggesting a position of trust and authority. This phrase highlights the exalted status and the significant role the cherub played in the divine order.

for I had ordained you
The word "ordained" comes from the Hebrew "nathan," meaning to give, set, or appoint. This indicates a deliberate and purposeful act by God, establishing the cherub in its role. It underscores the divine initiative and intentionality behind the cherub's position, emphasizing that it was not by chance but by God's sovereign decree.

You were on the holy mount of God
The "holy mount of God" refers to a place of divine presence and revelation. In biblical tradition, mountains are often seen as sacred spaces where God meets with humanity, such as Mount Sinai or Mount Zion. This phrase suggests proximity to God, a place of privilege and intimacy with the Divine. It signifies a position of honor and closeness to God's glory.

you walked among the fiery stones
The "fiery stones" evoke imagery of purity, holiness, and the consuming presence of God. In ancient Near Eastern culture, fire often symbolized divine presence and judgment. Walking among these stones suggests an intimate familiarity with the divine realm and a participation in the holiness and majesty of God's presence. It reflects the cherub's access to the inner sanctum of God's glory, a place of awe and reverence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Guardian Cherub
A high-ranking angelic being, often associated with protection and worship in the presence of God. In this context, it symbolizes a being of great beauty and privilege.

2. Holy Mount of God
This refers to a place of divine presence and authority, often associated with God's dwelling, such as Mount Zion or the heavenly realm.

3. Fiery Stones
These are symbolic of the divine and holy presence of God, possibly representing purity, holiness, and the consuming fire of God's presence.

4. Ezekiel
A prophet of God who conveyed messages of judgment and restoration to the people of Israel during their exile in Babylon.

5. King of Tyre
The immediate context of this passage is a lament against the King of Tyre, who is metaphorically compared to a fallen cherub due to his pride and eventual downfall.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
Pride can lead to downfall, as seen in the King of Tyre and the symbolic cherub. Believers must guard their hearts against pride and seek humility.

The Privilege of God's Presence
Being in God's presence is a privilege that should not be taken for granted. We are called to live lives that honor this privilege through obedience and worship.

Spiritual Warfare
The imagery of the guardian cherub reminds us of the reality of spiritual warfare. We must be vigilant and rely on God's strength to stand firm against spiritual pride and rebellion.

God's Sovereignty and Judgment
God is sovereign and just. He ordains roles and responsibilities, and He will judge those who misuse their positions of authority and privilege.

Restoration and Hope
Despite the themes of judgment, God's ultimate plan includes restoration and hope for those who turn back to Him in repentance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the "guardian cherub" in Ezekiel 28:14 help us understand the nature of pride and its consequences?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we remain humble and obedient in our walk with God, avoiding the pitfalls of pride seen in the King of Tyre?

3. How does the concept of "walking among the fiery stones" challenge us to live lives that reflect the holiness and purity of God?

4. What lessons can we learn from the fall of the King of Tyre that apply to our roles and responsibilities in our personal and professional lives?

5. How do the themes of judgment and restoration in Ezekiel 28:14 encourage us to seek God's presence and guidance in times of spiritual struggle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 14
This passage also uses the imagery of a fallen being, often interpreted as a reference to the fall of Satan, drawing parallels to the pride and fall of the King of Tyre.

Revelation 12
Describes the fall of Satan and his angels, connecting the theme of pride and rebellion against God.

Genesis 3
The fall of man due to pride and disobedience, echoing the themes of rebellion and the consequences of sin.