Exodus 37:8
One cherub on the end on this side, and another cherub on the other end on that side: out of the mercy seat made he the cherubims on the two ends thereof.
Original Language Analysis
מִזֶּ֔ה
H2088
מִזֶּ֑ה
H2088
מִן
H4480
מִן
Strong's:
H4480
Word #:
9 of 15
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
הַכַּפֹּ֛רֶת
on that side out of the mercy seat
H3727
הַכַּפֹּ֛רֶת
on that side out of the mercy seat
Strong's:
H3727
Word #:
10 of 15
a lid (used only of the cover of the sacred ark)
עָשָׂ֥ה
made
H6213
עָשָׂ֥ה
made
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
11 of 15
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
12 of 15
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
The two cherubim, positioned at opposite ends of the mercy seat, created a throne-like structure with God's presence manifesting between them (Exodus 25:22). This imagery of God enthroned above cherubim appears throughout Scripture (Psalm 80:1, 99:1).
Questions for Reflection
- What does the symmetrical placement of cherubim teach about the completeness and balance of God's redemptive plan?
- How do the cherubim (one piece, two beings) illustrate unity and diversity in the body of Christ?
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Analysis & Commentary
One cherub on each end (מִקָּצָה מִזֶּה וּכְרוּב־אֶחָד מִקָּצָה מִזֶּה, mi-katzah mi-zeh ukheruv-echad mi-katzah mi-zeh) demonstrates symmetry and completion—God's redemption is not one-sided but comprehensive. The repetition emphasizes each cherub's individual identity while maintaining their unified origin (beaten from one piece). This pictures the church: many members, one body (1 Corinthians 12:12), maintaining individual identity while sharing common origin and purpose in Christ.