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Book of Ezekiel - Chapter 10 - Verse 20

10:20
This is the living creature that I saw under the God of Israel by the river of Chebar; and I knew that they were the cherubims.

Meaning

When the prophet Ezekiel saw the living creatures under the God of Israel by the river of Chebar, he immediately recognized them as cherubim. Cherubim are powerful and mysterious beings mentioned throughout the Bible, often depicted as having multiple faces and wings. In this context, the presence of the cherubim signifies the glory and majesty of God. The sight of these heavenly creatures would have filled Ezekiel with awe and reverence, reminding him of the divine nature of the being he was in the presence of. The river of Chebar, where Ezekiel saw the cherubim, is a significant location in the book of Ezekiel, symbolizing the exile of the Israelites and the presence of God even in the midst of their captivity. This powerful image serves as a reminder that God's presence and protection are always with His people, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the mention of "cherubim" is significant from a theological standpoint. Cherubim are often depicted as powerful, angelic beings in religious texts, including the Bible. They are usually associated with guarding sacred spaces and carrying out the will of God. The fact that the prophet Ezekiel sees cherubim under the God of Israel by the river of Chebar indicates a deep sense of divine presence and protection. The word "cherubim" is rooted in ancient Hebrew, where it originally meant a type of winged creature. By studying the origin and usage of this word, we can gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual and symbolic significance of cherubim throughout religious history. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the mysterious and awe-inspiring nature of these divine beings, serving as a reminder of the power and majesty of God's presence among his people.

American Standard Version

This is the living creature that I saw under the God of Israel by the river Chebar; and I knew that they were cherubim.
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