Exodus 25:18
And thou shalt make two cherubims of gold, of beaten work shalt thou make them, in the two ends of the mercy seat.
Exodus 25:18
Here, God instructs making two cherubim of gold at the two ends of the mercy seat. The cherubim are not merely decorative; they symbolize the heavenly beings guarding God’s throne and marking a sacred boundary around His presence. Beaten work indicates skilled craftsmanship and the value of what is being made.
Cherubim on the ark prefigure the intimate, guarded access to God’s presence. They symbolize both divine presence and distance—humility is required to approach. The cherubim also foreshadow images of heavenly beings in biblical revelation who guard and declare God’s holiness. This detail reinforces the theme that God’s presence is near, but not to be trifled with.
The cherubim remind believers that worship and prayer should be approached with reverence. It’s not opposed to relationship with God, but to casual, unconsidered spirituality. Practical wisdom: cultivate prayerful preparation before engaging with God—confession, reflection, and reliance on God’s mercy. In leadership settings, recognize boundaries and trust that some aspects of God’s glory demand respectful, ceremonious posture rather than performing without awe.
Cross-References
- Ezekiel 1:5-14 (cherubim as heavenly beings)
- Psalm 18:9-10 (God’s throne and guardians)
- Hebrews 9:5 (the cherubim above the ark)