The "Glory of the LORD" is a profound and multifaceted concept in the Bible, representing the divine presence, majesty, and holiness of God. It is a central theme throughout both the Old and New Testaments, signifying God's manifest presence and the revelation of His character and power.

Old Testament

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for glory, "kavod," often denotes weightiness or splendor. The Glory of the LORD is frequently associated with His presence among His people. One of the most significant manifestations of God's glory is found in the account of the Exodus. As the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness, the Glory of the LORD appeared as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, guiding and protecting them (Exodus 13:21-22).

The Glory of the LORD also filled the Tabernacle, signifying God's dwelling among His people. In Exodus 40:34-35 , it is recorded, "Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. Moses was unable to enter the Tent of Meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle."

The prophet Ezekiel had visions of the Glory of the LORD departing from the Temple due to the people's sin (Ezekiel 10:18-19), yet he also foresaw its return, symbolizing restoration and hope (Ezekiel 43:2-5).

New Testament

In the New Testament, the Greek word "doxa" is used for glory, and it continues to convey the idea of divine majesty and honor. The Glory of the LORD is supremely revealed in the person of Jesus Christ. John 1:14 declares, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth."

The transfiguration of Jesus is a pivotal moment where His divine glory is unveiled to Peter, James, and John. Matthew 17:2 describes, "There He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light."

The Glory of the LORD is also associated with the resurrection and ascension of Christ, as well as His anticipated return. In 2 Thessalonians 1:10 , it is written, "On that day He will be glorified in His saints and marveled at by all who have believed, because our testimony to you was believed."

Theological Significance

The Glory of the LORD is not only a display of God's power and majesty but also a revelation of His holiness and righteousness. It demands reverence and worship from His creation. The Psalms frequently exhort believers to ascribe glory to the LORD, as seen in Psalm 29:2 : "Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness."

The Glory of the LORD also serves as a reminder of God's covenant faithfulness and His desire to dwell among His people. In the eschatological vision of the New Jerusalem, the Glory of the LORD illuminates the city, and there is no need for the sun or moon (Revelation 21:23): "The city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb."

Throughout Scripture, the Glory of the LORD is a testament to His unchanging nature and His ultimate purpose to be glorified in all creation.