Topical Encyclopedia The cherubim hold a significant place in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Tabernacle, where they are depicted as celestial beings associated with the presence and glory of God. Their representation in the Tabernacle serves both a symbolic and theological purpose, reflecting the holiness and majesty of God.Biblical Description and Role The cherubim are first mentioned in the context of the Tabernacle in the book of Exodus. God provides Moses with detailed instructions for the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, which is to be placed in the Most Holy Place of the Tabernacle. The cherubim are to be crafted as part of the mercy seat, which covers the Ark. In Exodus 25:18-20 , God commands, "And make two cherubim of hammered gold at the ends of the mercy seat. Make one cherub at one end and one at the other, all made from one piece with the mercy seat. The cherubim are to have wings that spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat. They are to face each other, looking toward the mercy seat." The cherubim on the mercy seat symbolize the divine presence and serve as guardians of the sacred space. Their wings, overshadowing the mercy seat, signify the protection and covering of God's covenant with His people. The positioning of the cherubim, facing each other and looking toward the mercy seat, emphasizes their role in focusing on the divine presence and the holiness of God. Symbolism and Theological Significance In the broader biblical context, cherubim are often associated with the throne of God and His divine majesty. They are depicted as powerful and majestic beings who serve as attendants to the Almighty. The presence of the cherubim in the Tabernacle underscores the sanctity of the space and the seriousness of approaching God. The imagery of the cherubim conveys the idea that God is enthroned above the cherubim, as seen in passages like Psalm 99:1 : "The LORD reigns, let the nations tremble; He is enthroned above the cherubim, let the earth quake." The cherubim also serve as a reminder of the separation between the holy and the profane. Their presence in the Most Holy Place, where only the high priest could enter once a year, highlights the holiness of God and the need for atonement and mediation. The cherubim, therefore, play a crucial role in the liturgical and theological framework of the Tabernacle, pointing to the need for reverence and purity in worship. Artistic Representation The artistic representation of the cherubim in the Tabernacle reflects the craftsmanship and artistry commanded by God. The cherubim were to be made of pure gold, indicating their preciousness and the value placed on the divine presence. The detailed instructions for their construction, as seen in Exodus 37:7-9 , demonstrate the importance of following God's commands precisely: "He made two cherubim of hammered gold at the ends of the mercy seat, one cherub at each end, made from one piece with the mercy seat. The cherubim had wings that spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat. They faced each other and looked toward the mercy seat." The cherubim's design, with their wings spread upward, not only serves a symbolic purpose but also adds to the aesthetic beauty of the Tabernacle, reflecting the glory and splendor of God. The use of gold and the intricate workmanship highlight the sacredness of the objects associated with worship and the divine presence. Conclusion The cherubim in the Tabernacle are a profound symbol of God's holiness, presence, and majesty. Their depiction as part of the mercy seat on the Ark of the Covenant serves as a constant reminder of the divine presence and the need for reverence in worship. Through their representation, the cherubim underscore the themes of holiness, atonement, and the glory of God, central to the worship and theology of ancient Israel. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 25:18-20And you shall make two cherubim of gold, of beaten work shall you make them, in the two ends of the mercy seat. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 37:7-9 Library The Mystic Meaning of the Tabernacle and Its Furniture. The True Tabernacle, and Its Glory of Grace and Peace The Tabernacle of the Most High The First Part The Copies of Things in the Heavens Whether Sufficient Reason Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies ... What is the Sanctuary? Ezekiel's vision (Preached Before the Queen at Windsor, June 16 ... What is the Sanctuary? The Building of the Golden House. Resources What are cherubim? Are cherubs angels? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God have the cherubim guard just the east side of Eden (Genesis 3:24)? | GotQuestions.org What is the hierarchy of angels? | GotQuestions.org Cherubim: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Cherubim in Ezekiel's Vision of the Temple Cherubim of Gold: Formed out of, and at Each End of the Mercy Seat Cherubim of Gold: God's Presence Manifested Between Cherubim of Gold: Placed Over the Ark of the Covenant Cherubim of Gold: The Oracles or Answers of God Delivered from Between Cherubim: Animated by the Spirit of God Cherubim: Called the Cherubim of Glory Cherubim: Eastward of the Garden of Eden Cherubim: Engaged in Accomplishing the Purposes of God Cherubim: Figures of On the Curtain Cherubim: Figures of On the Lavers Cherubim: Figures of On the Walls Cherubim: Figures of, Embroidered: And on the Curtain Cherubim: Figures of, Embroidered: On the Walls of the Tabernacle Cherubim: Form and Appearance of Cherubim: Placed at the Entrance of Eden Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Bases of Brazen Lavers Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Curtains of the Tabernacle Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Doors of the Temple Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Vail of the Tabernacle Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Vail of the Temple Cherubim: Representations of, Made on The: Walls of the Temple Cherubim: Riding On, Illustrative of Majesty and Power of God Cherubim: Sound of Their Wings Was As the Voice of God Cherubim: The Ark of the Covenant Rested Beneath the Wings of Cherubim: The Glory of God Exhibited Upon Related Terms |
    |