Introduction:
Ezekiel's vision by the River Kebar is a profound and complex revelation given to the prophet Ezekiel, as recorded in the Book of Ezekiel, chapters 1 and 10. This vision marks the beginning of Ezekiel's prophetic ministry during the Babylonian exile and is foundational for understanding his message to the Israelites. The vision is rich in symbolism and theological significance, reflecting God's glory, sovereignty, and the divine presence among His people even in exile.

Historical Context:
Ezekiel, a priest and prophet, was among the Jewish exiles taken to Babylon during the early deportations under King Nebuchadnezzar. The River Kebar, likely a canal near the city of Nippur in Babylonia, served as the setting for this divine encounter. The vision occurred in the fifth year of King Jehoiachin's exile, around 593 BC, a time of great turmoil and uncertainty for the Israelites.

The Vision:
Ezekiel's vision begins with a dramatic description of a stormy wind coming from the north, accompanied by a great cloud and flashing fire, surrounded by a brilliant light. Within this cloud, Ezekiel sees four living creatures, each with four faces and four wings. Their appearance is described as having the likeness of a man, with faces of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, symbolizing the fullness of creation and the attributes of God—wisdom, majesty, strength, and swiftness.

The creatures move in unison, guided by the Spirit, and are accompanied by wheels within wheels, sparkling like beryl. These wheels, capable of moving in any direction without turning, signify the omnipresence and omnipotence of God. Above the creatures is a firmament, resembling crystal, and above it, a throne of sapphire, upon which sits a figure with the appearance of a man, radiating the glory of God.

Theological Significance:
Ezekiel's vision emphasizes the holiness and transcendence of God, who is not confined to the temple in Jerusalem but is present with His people even in exile. The vision serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to execute judgment and deliverance. The imagery of the living creatures and the wheels underscores the dynamic and active nature of God's presence and His control over the cosmos.

The vision also introduces the concept of God's glory departing from the temple, a theme further developed in Ezekiel's later prophecies. This departure signifies the impending judgment on Jerusalem due to the people's idolatry and unfaithfulness. However, it also foreshadows the promise of restoration and the return of God's presence to a renewed temple and people.

Scriptural References:
· Ezekiel 1:1-28: "In the thirtieth year, in the fourth month on the fifth day, while I was among the exiles by the Kebar River, the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God..."
· Ezekiel 10:18-19: "Then the glory of the LORD departed from over the threshold of the temple and stopped above the cherubim..."

Conclusion:
Ezekiel's vision by the River Kebar is a pivotal moment in biblical prophecy, revealing the majesty and mystery of God's presence. It challenges the exiles to recognize God's authority and faithfulness, even in the midst of judgment, and sets the stage for the unfolding narrative of redemption and hope in the Book of Ezekiel.