Cherubim: The Closely Surrounded Angels of God

The word "cherub" is often associated with cute, chubby angel babies with wings. However, in religious context, the word cherub is more than just a description of an angelic figure. Cherubim are divine beings mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the book of Exodus and 1 Kings. These majestic creatures are closely surrounded by the presence of God and are known for their intimate service to the Almighty. In this article, we will delve deeper into the world of cherubim and explore their significance in both Judaism and Christianity.

The First Mention of Cherubim in the Bible

The concept of cherubim can be traced back to the book of Genesis. After Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden, God placed cherubim at the east of the garden to guard the way to the tree of life (Genesis 3:24). In this passage, the cherubim are depicted as powerful beings who are tasked with protecting something holy and precious. The symbolism of cherubim as protectors and guards would continue throughout the Bible.

Cherubim in the Tabernacle and Temple

In Exodus 25:18-21, God instructs Moses to create two cherubim out of pure gold to adorn the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant. The mercy seat was located in the Holy of Holies, a sacred area within the Tabernacle where only the High Priest could enter once a year on the Day of Atonement. The cherubim were placed facing each other, with their wings spread outwards and covering the mercy seat. According to Jewish tradition, the cherubim represent the heavenly court, with one representing the tribe of Judah and the other representing the tribe of Levi.

When Solomon built the Temple in Jerusalem, he also included cherubim in its construction. In 1 Kings 6:23-28, we read about the two cherubim of wrought (or hammered) gold which stood in the inner sanctuary of the Temple. These cherubim were placed in a similar position to those in the Tabernacle, with their wings stretched out to cover the Ark of the Covenant. However, there is one significant difference - the cherubim in the Temple were made of solid gold, whereas the ones in the Tabernacle were only overlaid with gold.

Cherubim in Judaism and Christianity

The concept of cherubim has been adopted by both Judaism and Christianity. In Judaism, the cherubim are seen as symbols of the divine presence and are often associated with the presence of God in the Tabernacle and Temple. A midrash (rabbinic commentary) explains that when God spoke to Moses from above the mercy seat, His voice was amplified by the cherubim's wings.

In Christianity, cherubim are also associated with the presence of God, but their role is slightly different. They are seen as part of the heavenly host, along with other angelic beings such as seraphim and archangels. Cherubim are mentioned several times in the Bible, including in the book of Revelation, where they are described as having multiple faces and wings.

One of the most famous depictions of cherubim in Christian art is in Michelangelo's painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Here, the cherubim (along with other angelic figures) are shown surrounding the figure of God, emphasizing their close proximity to Him.

Controversies Surrounding Cherubim

Despite their significance in religious texts and traditions, cherubim have been the subject of controversy over the years. Some scholars argue that the description of cherubim in the Bible is too fantastical to be taken literally. For example, the cherubim in Ezekiel's vision (Ezekiel 10:14) are described as having four faces (including those of a lion and an eagle) and four wings. This has led some to suggest that the cherubim are purely symbolic or metaphorical in nature.

Another controversy surrounds the concept of cherubim being angels. While the Bible does not explicitly identify them as such, they are often categorized as angelic beings due to their association with heavenly realms and divine service. However, some scholars argue that cherubim are a separate type of entity altogether and should not be conflated with angels.

Despite these controversies, the significance of cherubim in religious texts and traditions cannot be denied. Whether they are seen as literal beings or metaphorical symbols, they continue to be revered for their close connection to the divine.

Conclusion

Cherubim may be commonly associated with cute little angel babies, but in religious contexts, they are much more than that. They are powerful divine beings who served God intimately both in the Tabernacle and in the Temple. The symbolism of cherubim as protectors and guards has remained consistent throughout the Bible, and they continue to hold great significance in both Judaism and Christianity. While controversies surround their description and identity, their special role as closely surrounded creatures of God remains undisputed.