Topical Encyclopedia The Seraphim, or Seraphs, are a class of celestial beings mentioned in the Bible, primarily associated with the worship and service of God. The term "seraphim" is derived from the Hebrew word "śārāph," which means "burning ones," reflecting their fiery nature and purity. These beings are depicted as having a close proximity to the divine presence, serving as attendants to God and participating in His heavenly court.Biblical References: The primary biblical reference to the Seraphim is found in the book of Isaiah. In Isaiah 6:1-7, the prophet Isaiah describes a vision of the Lord seated on a high and exalted throne, with the train of His robe filling the temple. Above Him stood the Seraphim, each having six wings: "With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying" (Isaiah 6:2). This description emphasizes their reverence and humility in the presence of God. The Seraphim are depicted as calling to one another, proclaiming the holiness of the Lord: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth" (Isaiah 6:3). This thrice-repeated declaration of God's holiness underscores His absolute purity and separateness from creation. In the vision, one of the Seraphim flies to Isaiah with a live coal taken from the altar, touching it to the prophet's lips and declaring, "Behold, this has touched your lips; your iniquity is taken away, and your sin is atoned for" (Isaiah 6:7). This act symbolizes purification and the removal of sin, preparing Isaiah for his prophetic mission. Theological Significance: The Seraphim are often understood as symbols of divine purity and the transformative power of God's holiness. Their presence in Isaiah's vision highlights the majesty and transcendence of God, as well as the need for purification before approaching Him. The Seraphim's role in proclaiming God's holiness serves as a reminder of the centrality of worship and adoration in the life of faith. In Christian theology, the Seraphim are sometimes associated with the highest order of angels, reflecting their close proximity to God and their role in His heavenly court. Their depiction as "burning ones" can also be seen as a metaphor for the consuming fire of God's love and the transformative power of His presence. Conclusion: The Seraphim, as described in the book of Isaiah, offer a profound glimpse into the heavenly realm and the worship that takes place before the throne of God. Their portrayal as fiery, six-winged beings who proclaim God's holiness and participate in the purification of the prophet underscores their significance in the biblical narrative. As celestial beings, the Seraphim remind believers of the majesty and holiness of God, calling them to a life of worship and reverence. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 6:2,6Above it stood the seraphim: each one had six wings; with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he did fly. Nave's Topical Index Resources What is Angelology? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that God is holy, holy, holy? | GotQuestions.org How many angels are there? | GotQuestions.org Seraphim: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |