The phrase "The Figure Resembling a Man" is often associated with theophanies and visions in the Bible, where divine or heavenly beings appear in a form that resembles a human. This concept is significant in understanding how God and His messengers reveal themselves to humanity in a manner that is relatable and comprehensible.

Old Testament Appearances

One of the most notable instances of a figure resembling a man is found in the book of Ezekiel. In Ezekiel 1:26-28 , the prophet describes a vision of the glory of God: "Above the expanse over their heads was the likeness of a throne, with the appearance of sapphire. And on the throne high above was a figure resembling a man. From what seemed to be His waist up, I saw a gleam like amber, with what looked like fire within it all around. And from what seemed to be His waist down, I saw what looked like fire, and brilliant light surrounded Him. The appearance of the brilliant light all around was like that of a rainbow in a cloud on a rainy day. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD."

This vision emphasizes the transcendence and majesty of God while using human-like imagery to convey His presence. The figure resembling a man serves as a bridge between the divine and the human, allowing Ezekiel to grasp the glory of God in a vision.

Daniel's Vision

Another significant occurrence is found in the book of Daniel. In Daniel 10:5-6 , Daniel describes a vision of a heavenly being: "I lifted up my eyes and looked, and behold, there was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of gold from Uphaz around his waist. His body was like beryl, his face like the brilliance of lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of polished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude."

This figure, often interpreted as an angelic being or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, conveys a sense of divine authority and power. The description highlights the splendor and awe-inspiring nature of the heavenly realm.

New Testament Revelation

In the New Testament, the concept of a figure resembling a man is most profoundly realized in the person of Jesus Christ. While not a vision, the incarnation of Christ is the ultimate expression of God taking on human form. Philippians 2:7 states, "but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness." This passage underscores the theological significance of God becoming man in the person of Jesus, bridging the gap between the divine and human.

Additionally, in the book of Revelation, John describes a vision of the glorified Christ in Revelation 1:13-16 : "and among the lampstands was One like a son of man, dressed in a long robe, with a golden sash around His chest. The hair of His head was white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like a blazing fire. His feet were like polished bronze refined in a furnace, and His voice was like the roar of many waters. He held in His right hand seven stars, and a sharp double-edged sword came from His mouth. His face was like the sun shining at its brightest."

This vision of Christ emphasizes His divine authority and majesty, using human-like imagery to convey His exalted status.

Theological Implications

The appearances of figures resembling a man in the Bible serve to illustrate the ways in which God communicates with humanity. These manifestations provide a means for humans to comprehend the divine, using familiar forms to convey profound spiritual truths. The use of human-like figures in visions and the incarnation of Christ highlight the relational aspect of God's nature, demonstrating His desire to be known and understood by His creation.