The Vision of the Cherubim is a profound and symbolic revelation found in the Book of Ezekiel, specifically in Ezekiel chapters 1 and 10. This vision is one of the most vivid and detailed descriptions of heavenly beings in the Bible, offering insight into the majesty and holiness of God as well as His divine presence and glory.

Context and Setting

The vision occurs during the Babylonian exile, around 593 BC, when Ezekiel, a priest and prophet, is among the exiles by the Kebar River. The heavens open, and Ezekiel sees visions of God, marking the beginning of his prophetic ministry. This vision serves as a divine commissioning for Ezekiel, emphasizing God's sovereignty even in the midst of Israel's captivity.

Description of the Cherubim

In Ezekiel 1:4-28, the prophet describes a stormy wind coming from the north, a great cloud with flashing fire, and a brilliant light surrounding it. Within this, he sees four living creatures, later identified as cherubim in Ezekiel 10:20. Each cherub has four faces: a human face, a lion's face, an ox's face, and an eagle's face. They have straight legs, feet like those of a calf, and four wings. Two wings cover their bodies, and two are stretched upward, touching the wings of the other creatures.

The cherubim move in perfect harmony, guided by the Spirit, without turning as they go. Their appearance is like burning coals of fire or torches, and lightning flashes from them. The sound of their wings is like the roar of rushing waters, the voice of the Almighty, or the tumult of an army.

The Wheels

Accompanying the cherubim are wheels, described in Ezekiel 1:15-21. Each wheel is on the ground beside the cherubim, and they are described as a wheel within a wheel, capable of moving in any direction without turning. The rims of the wheels are full of eyes all around, symbolizing divine omniscience and awareness. The spirit of the living creatures is in the wheels, indicating a unity of purpose and movement.

The Glory of the LORD

Above the cherubim is a firmament, like an expanse of crystal, and above this is a throne of sapphire. On the throne is a figure with the appearance of a man, surrounded by a brilliant radiance like a rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day. This is the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD (Ezekiel 1:26-28). The vision underscores God's transcendence and His majestic presence, even in exile.

Theological Significance

The Vision of the Cherubim highlights several key theological themes:

1. God's Sovereignty and Holiness: The vision emphasizes God's supreme authority and holiness. The cherubim, as guardians of God's throne, reflect His majesty and the reverence due to Him.

2. Divine Presence: Despite the exile, God's presence is not confined to the temple in Jerusalem. The vision reassures the exiles that God is with them, even in a foreign land.

3. Judgment and Restoration: The vision sets the stage for Ezekiel's messages of judgment against Israel's idolatry and eventual restoration. The mobility of the cherubim and the wheels suggests God's active involvement in the affairs of nations.

4. Prophetic Commissioning: The vision serves as a divine commissioning for Ezekiel, affirming his role as a prophet to the exiles. It underscores the seriousness and authority of his prophetic messages.

Conclusion

The Vision of the Cherubim remains one of the most enigmatic and awe-inspiring passages in Scripture. It invites believers to contemplate the majesty and mystery of God's presence and His sovereign rule over all creation.