The concept of the "Departure of the LORD" is a significant theme in the Bible, reflecting moments when God's presence, favor, or glory is withdrawn from His people due to their disobedience, idolatry, or sin. This theme underscores the holiness of God and the consequences of turning away from His commandments.

Old Testament Instances

1. Ezekiel's Vision of the Departure of God's Glory: One of the most vivid depictions of the LORD's departure is found in the book of Ezekiel. In Ezekiel 10:18-19 , the prophet describes the glory of the LORD departing from the threshold of the temple: "Then the glory of the LORD moved away from the threshold of the temple and stood above the cherubim. As I watched, the cherubim lifted their wings and rose from the ground, and the wheels went with them. They stopped at the entrance to the east gate of the house of the LORD, and the glory of the God of Israel was above them." This departure signifies God's judgment upon Jerusalem due to the people's persistent idolatry and rebellion.

2. Ichabod · The Glory Has Departed: In 1 Samuel 4:21-22 , the birth of Ichabod is marked by the declaration, "The glory has departed from Israel," following the capture of the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines. The Ark, representing God's presence, being taken away symbolizes a profound spiritual loss for Israel, highlighting the consequences of their unfaithfulness.

3. The Northern Kingdom of Israel: The Assyrian conquest and exile of the Northern Kingdom in 722 BC can be seen as a departure of the LORD's favor and protection. Hosea 9:12 warns, "Even if they raise their children, I will bereave them of each one. Yes, woe to them when I turn away from them!" This reflects the LORD's withdrawal due to Israel's persistent idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness.

New Testament Reflections

1. Jesus' Lament over Jerusalem: In the New Testament, Jesus laments over Jerusalem, foreseeing the consequences of their rejection of Him. In Matthew 23:37-38 , He declares, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling. Look, your house is left to you desolate." This desolation signifies a spiritual departure, as the people fail to recognize the visitation of God in Christ.

2. The Temple's Destruction: The destruction of the Second Temple in AD 70 is seen as a historical and theological event where the physical symbol of God's presence among His people is removed. This act is often interpreted as a judgment upon the nation for rejecting the Messiah, aligning with the theme of divine departure due to disobedience.

Theological Implications

The departure of the LORD serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God. It emphasizes the conditional nature of God's presence, which is contingent upon the faithfulness and obedience of His people. The theme also points to the hope of restoration and return, as seen in the promises of God's return to His people when they repent and seek Him with all their hearts (Jeremiah 29:13).

Throughout Scripture, the departure of the LORD is not merely punitive but serves as a call to repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness. It highlights the necessity of maintaining a relationship with God through obedience, worship, and reverence, ensuring His abiding presence and blessing.