Ezekiel 1:6
And every one had four faces, and every one had four wings.
Original Language Analysis
פָנִ֖ים
faces
H6440
פָנִ֖ים
faces
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
2 of 7
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
לְאַחַ֥ת
And every one
H259
לְאַחַ֥ת
And every one
Strong's:
H259
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
כְּנָפַ֖יִם
wings
H3671
כְּנָפַ֖יִם
wings
Strong's:
H3671
Word #:
5 of 7
an edge or extremity; specifically (of a bird or army) a wing, (of a garment or bedclothing) a flap, (of the earth) a quarter, (of a building) a pinna
Historical Context
Ezekiel's vision by the Chebar canal (593 BC) occurred during Babylonian exile. Ancient Near Eastern iconography featured composite creatures, but Ezekiel's vision emphasizes Yahweh's unique transcendence. The cherubim's complexity defies human categorization, teaching that God's glory exceeds natural categories. This vision assured exiles that despite distance from Jerusalem, God's throne remained sovereign and mobile, reaching even to Babylon.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the cherubim's perfect coordination model submission to God's will?
- What does the supernatural complexity teach about heavenly realities exceeding earthly comprehension?
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Analysis & Commentary
The four-winged, four-faced cherubim represent the fullness of created order serving God's purposes. Their mobility and coordination demonstrate perfect submission to divine will. The imagery transcends natural creation, pointing to supernatural realities. These beings guard God's holiness and execute His purposes. The fourfold nature (later associated with the four Gospels by church fathers) suggests comprehensive testimony to God's character and works. Created order exists to display God's glory and serve His sovereign purposes.