Exodus 25:20
And the cherubims shall stretch forth their wings on high, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and their faces shall look one to another; toward the mercy seat shall the faces of the cherubims be.
Exodus 25:20
The cherubim are to stretch their wings, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and their faces to look toward the mercy seat. This imagery emphasizes protection, proximity, and focused attention toward God’s presence. The wings create a symbolic shelter, and the faces looking toward the mercy seat show devotion to what it signifies—the place of communion between God and His people.
The passage conveys how God’s presence is both near and holy. The cherubim act as guardians while also pointing the people toward confession, worship, and reconciliation. The faces toward the mercy seat underscore a posture of reverence and contemplation.
This invites believers to cultivate a posture of worship and focus when approaching God. In practical life, this could mean setting a dedicated space or routine for daily quiet time, where you look to God’s presence and recalibrate your heart toward Him. It also suggests safeguarding what you deem sacred—don’t let daily distractions erode your sense of awe before God.
Cross-References
- Psalm 99:1-5 (God’s holiness and throne)
- Hebrews 9:5 (cherubim and mercy seat)
- Matthew 6:6 (private prayer with focus on God)