What were Cherubims?

Cherubims (Hebrew: כְּרוּבִים keruvim, plural of keruv) are a class of angelic beings first mentioned in the Book of Genesis. They are not individual characters but rather a distinct order of heavenly creatures created by God for the purpose of guarding sacred spaces and representing His divine presence and holiness. Contrary to modern artistic depictions of cherubs as infant-like figures, the biblical cherubim are powerful, awe-inspiring beings who serve in close proximity to God.

The root meaning of the word keruv is uncertain, but many scholars associate it with the idea of guarding or covering. This fits with their function in Scripture, particularly in Genesis 3:24, where they are tasked with guarding the way to the Tree of Life after Adam and Eve are expelled from Eden.

Biblical References and Appearances

Cherubims are referenced throughout both the Old and New Testaments:

• Genesis 3:24 – The first mention: “After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life.”

• Exodus 25:18-22 – God commands Moses to make two cherubim of gold on the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant.

• Ezekiel 1:4-28; 10:1-22 – Detailed descriptions of cherubim as living creatures associated with God’s throne.

• Psalm 18:10 – “He mounted the cherubim and flew; he soared on the wings of the wind.”

• Revelation 4:6-9 – The living creatures before the throne bear resemblance to the cherubim in Ezekiel.

Role in Genesis 3

In Genesis 3:24, after the Fall of man, God places cherubim at the east of the Garden of Eden, along with a flaming sword, to guard the way to the Tree of Life. This is not merely a security detail but a theological statement: sinful man is now barred from eternal life apart from God‘s redemptive work. The cherubim stand as divine sentinels, symbolizing the separation between holy God and fallen humanity.

Their placement at the east of Eden echoes the future placement of the cherubim in the Holy of Holies of the Tabernacle and Temple, where they are part of the symbolic furniture that guards God‘s throne and presence.

Theological Implications

Cherubims symbolize the holiness and majesty of God, as well as the barrier between sinful man and divine presence. Their constant association with God‘s throne in Scripture underscores their role in reflecting His glory and enforcing His boundaries.

In the Tabernacle and Temple, cherubim are woven into the veil and placed atop the Ark of the Covenant, their wings overshadowing the mercy seat where the blood of atonement is sprinkled (Exodus 25:22; Leviticus 16:14-15). This signifies that God‘s presence is both majestic and merciful, but must be approached through atonement.

Literary and Symbolic Analysis

The appearance of cherubim is highly symbolic. In Ezekiel 1 and 10, they have four faces—man, lion, ox, and eagle—possibly representing wisdom, authority, strength, and swiftness. Their wings and wheels suggest mobility and omnidirectional awareness. These visions are meant to convey divine majesty beyond human comprehension.

In Genesis 3, their presence indicates a heavenly guardianship that is beyond human power to breach. The flaming sword adds to the imagery of divine judgment and protection.

Cross-References

• Exodus 25:20 – “The cherubim are to have their wings spread upward, overshadowing the cover with them.”

• 1 Kings 6:23-28 – Solomon places large cherubim inside the inner sanctuary of the Temple.

• Psalm 80:1 – “Hear us, Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock. You who sit enthroned between the cherubim, shine forth.”

• Hebrews 9:5 – Refers to the cherubim of the glory overshadowing the mercy seat.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

For Christians today, the cherubim are a reminder of God’s holiness and the cost of sin. Their placement at Eden’s gate shows the consequence of rebellion against God: separation from life and communion with Him.

However, the cherubim also point forward to God’s provision of a way back. Through Jesus Christ—the true and better High Priest—we gain access to the presence of God. The veil of the Temple, which had cherubim embroidered into it (Exodus 26:31), was torn in two at Christ’s death (Matthew 27:51), signifying the end of the barrier guarded by the cherubim.

Thus, the cherubim both represent the judgment of God for sin and His mercy through Christ. They guarded the Tree of Life; now, through Jesus, the Tree of Life is once again offered freely to those who believe (Revelation 22:14).

Connection to Jesus and the Gospel

Jesus Christ fulfills what the cherubim symbolized. Where they stood guard to prevent access to God’s presence, Jesus now invites us in:

“Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus… let us draw near to God” (Hebrews 10:19,22).

In the heavenly vision of Revelation, creatures similar to cherubim worship the Lamb who was slain. This portrays Christ as the only one worthy to open the scrolls and to restore what was lost in Eden.

Christ’s atoning death removed the flaming sword of judgment and invites us back into fellowship with God. Where once cherubim stood to bar the way, now Christ stands as the Way (John 14:6).

Broader Biblical Themes

• God’s Holiness – The cherubim highlight the untouchable purity of God.

• Separation and Atonement – Their role in guarding and their position over the mercy seat point to the necessity of a mediator.

• Presence of God – They are always found near God’s throne, showing that they are servants of His glory.

• Redemptive Access – Through Christ, what was once guarded is now open.

Reflection Questions

1. What does the presence of the cherubim in Eden tell you about God’s view of sin and holiness?

2. How do the cherubim enhance your understanding of the significance of Christ’s atonement?

3. In what ways are we tempted to approach God casually, and how can the example of the cherubim correct this?

4. How can you cultivate deeper reverence for God’s holiness in your worship and life?

5. What does the torn veil in the Temple teach you about the accessibility of God through Jesus?

The cherubim are not mythical guardians but divine beings who remind us of the awe-inspiring holiness of God and the grace that now opens the way back to Him through the blood of Christ. From Genesis to Revelation, they point us to the glory of the God who is both just and merciful.