The Bible
The Bible is one of the most influential texts in the world, written over the course of centuries and full of stories, parables and passages of incredible detail. It is the central text of many faiths and has been studied, dissected and analysed for generations. Within the Bible there are references to a mysterious figure known as a ‘Cherub’. So what is a Cherub in the Bible?
The Cherubim
Cherubim are celestial figures, often depicted as winged humanoids or lion-winged figures, who are described in the Bible as powerful protectors of sacred sites. In the early books of the Bible, the Cherubim are associated with the Garden of Eden where they formed a flaming sword to keep out unworthy visitors. They were also seen as guardians of the Ark of the Covenant and featured in other tales such as the Exodus, the anointing of King Solomon and the apocalyptic visions of Ezekiel, where they appear as four great winged creatures.
Symbolism and Interpretation
The symbolism of the Cherubim has been interpreted in many ways over the centuries. Some see them as representing God’s guardianship of humankind, while others have linked them to ideas of sacred knowledge or angelic protection. Others have pointed to the winged image of a Cherub as a symbol of divine power, or interpreted the image as being representative of the reconciliation of opposites in religious ritual or ritualistic medicine.
Cherubim in Modern Times
The idea of Cherubim has been adopted by modern faiths and cultures, including Christianity and Judaism. Some scholars have argued that the Cherubim reference in the Bible was a metaphor or symbol of divine protection, and has been interpreted in a variety of ways. In modern times, many people have adapted the traditional image of a Cherub to include winged babies or young children in art, literature and popular culture.
Messengers from God
In some Christian traditions, the Cherubim are believed to be celestial messengers sent by God to deliver specific messages. This idea has been explored in the Bible and in other religions, where the Cherubim are sent to bring warning, advice or guidance. Some people have interpreted the act of sending Cherubim as an act of mercy or grace from God.
Descriptions of Cherubim
The Bible offers descriptions of Cherubim in Exodus 25:17-20 and Ezekiel 1:10-11. In both passages, the Cherubim are described as having four faces – one human, one eagle, one lion and the last a creature resembling an ox. In both chapters, they are attributed with having four wings and a human-like form with feet. Though there is no mention of a specific color given to the Cherubim in these passages, they are often depicted in art as having brightly coloured wings.
Protection of the Divine
Regardless of the interpretation, the Bible’s descriptions of Cherubim commonly suggest a powerful, divine protection. In the Garden of Eden, the Cherubim are used to warn those unworthy to prevent them from stealing the Tree of Knowledge. While in the Ark of the Covenant and elsewhere, the Cherubim are used to keep a close eye over the divine. While interpretations of the Cherubim may vary, it is clear that they are powerful figures with important roles in the Bible.
Powerful Presences
The presence of the Cherubim in the Bible has been deeply influential in many different cultures and religions. The Cherubim are often seen as powerful guardians of holy sites, delivering divine messages to those in need and providing protection of the sacred. Though interpretations of the Cherubim may differ, they remain powerful symbols of divine presence in the Bible.
Cherubim and Prophecy
The passage in Ezekiel 1:10-11 also references prophetic insight and is interpreted as a reference to spiritual vision and enlightenment. It is suggested that the four wings in the passage represent the four cardinal directions and indicate prophet’s ability to observe and transmit the wisdom of the divine. This interpretation suggests the Cherubim aid in the gathering and spreading of spiritual knowledge.
Interpretation of Pages
Modern scholars have interpreted various passages in the Bible featuring the Cherubim in varying ways. Some have seen the Cherubim as guardians of holiness protecting sacred sites from those who aren’t worthy, while others interpret the Cherubim as celestial messengers of God sent to deliver important messages to those in need. Ultimately, there is no one correct interpretation for the way in which the Cherubim are featured in the Bible, and the figure of a Cherub remains complex and open to interpretation.
Conclusion of Symbolism
The figure of the Cherub in the Bible is full of symbolism, and depending on the interpretation can signify a variety of different things. While some see the Cherubim as powerful protectors of divine sites, others interpret them as messengers of God sent to deliver prophetic insight. Yet others may see the powerful winged figures as symbols of divine presence. Whatever interpretation one chose, the Cherubim in the Bible remain powerful symbols of divine protection and guidance.
