In the biblical narrative, "glorious beings" often refer to celestial entities that reflect the majesty and splendor of God. These beings are typically associated with the divine realm and are depicted as possessing extraordinary attributes and functions. The Bible provides various accounts and descriptions of such beings, including angels, cherubim, seraphim, and other heavenly hosts.

Angels

Angels are perhaps the most frequently mentioned glorious beings in the Bible. They are depicted as messengers of God, executing His will and delivering His messages to humanity. The term "angel" is derived from the Greek word "angelos," meaning "messenger." In the Old Testament, angels appear in various forms and functions, such as guiding, protecting, and delivering God's people. For instance, in Genesis 19, two angels visit Lot in Sodom to warn him of the impending destruction of the city.

In the New Testament, angels continue to play significant roles. They announce the birth of Jesus to the shepherds (Luke 2:9-14) and minister to Jesus after His temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:11). The Book of Hebrews describes angels as "ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation" (Hebrews 1:14).

Cherubim

Cherubim are another class of glorious beings, often associated with the presence and holiness of God. They are first mentioned in Genesis 3:24, where God places cherubim with a flaming sword to guard the way to the tree of life after Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden. In the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, cherubim are depicted as part of the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's throne and His divine presence (Exodus 25:18-22).

The prophet Ezekiel provides a vivid description of cherubim in his visions, portraying them as having four faces and four wings, with the likeness of a man (Ezekiel 1:5-11). These beings are closely associated with the glory of God, as seen in Ezekiel's vision of the glory departing from the Temple (Ezekiel 10).

Seraphim

Seraphim are mentioned specifically in the Book of Isaiah. In Isaiah 6:1-7, the prophet describes a vision of the Lord seated on a high and exalted throne, with seraphim standing above Him. These beings have six wings: with two they cover their faces, with two they cover their feet, and with two they fly. They call out to one another, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth" (Isaiah 6:3). The seraphim's role in this vision emphasizes the holiness and majesty of God.

Heavenly Hosts

The term "heavenly hosts" is often used to describe the multitude of angelic beings that serve and worship God. In the Psalms, the heavenly hosts are called to praise the Lord: "Praise Him, all His angels; praise Him, all His heavenly hosts" (Psalm 148:2). The Book of Revelation also depicts a vast number of angels around the throne of God, worshiping and proclaiming His glory (Revelation 5:11-12).

The Angel of the LORD

A unique figure in the Old Testament is the "Angel of the LORD," who appears in various narratives with divine authority and presence. This figure is often seen as a theophany, a manifestation of God Himself. For example, in Exodus 3:2, the Angel of the LORD appears to Moses in the burning bush, and the ground is declared holy. The Angel of the LORD is also involved in significant events, such as the binding of Isaac (Genesis 22:11-12) and the calling of Gideon (Judges 6:11-24).

Conclusion

The concept of glorious beings in the Bible underscores the majesty and holiness of the divine realm. These beings serve as messengers, protectors, and worshipers of God, reflecting His glory and executing His will throughout the biblical narrative.