Ezekiel Description of Angels is something that has attracted a lot of attention around the world. Christians are always curious to uncover more information about it. You may know that the Book of Ezekiel is considered to be dramatic. Plus, it’s full of symbolisms and portrayals of his visions. Ezekiel is one of the biggest contributors of the Old Testament.
Ezekiel was a devoted priest as well as a prophet. He used to live among the Jewish Exiles in Babylon. From prophecy to judgement, vivid visions, and representation of heaven’s beings, his writings include everything. The way he describes the angelic figures according to his visions is truly mind-blowing. These portrayals of supernatural entities and angels spark a lot of discussions to this day.
Undeniably, the main highlights of Ezekiel’s portrayal of Angels are the cherubim and wheels within wheels. Ezekiel 1 to Ezekiel 10, these verses include the descriptions of his visions. The divine and holy nature of God’s presence is perfectly captured in these visions. If you wish to know more about this, keep reading till the end. Further, this blog entirely revolves around Ezekiel Description of Angels.
Ezekiel Description of Angels – “Cherubim”
As has been mentioned, Cherubim is a prominent angel description given by Ezekiel. The prophet represented this divine entity as terrifying yet alluring. Due to the multi-faced appearance along with wings, Cherubim ends up looking intimidating. However, the scholars believe that there’s nothing to be scared about. This angel’s significance goes way beyond its appearance. According to Ezekiel, the Cherubim angel moves with unmatched speed and divine power. The overwhelming presence of God is perfectly symbolic through this description.
Cherubim is portrayed to have four different faces including man, lion, eagle, and bull. Similarly, this angel has four wings for different purposes. Two of the wings facilitate movement, whereas, the other two are for covering the body. Other features described by Ezekiel are straight legs and bronze feet. The most terrifying portrayal is that Cherubim has multiple eyes covering its entire body. Due to its divine nature, this angel is somewhat beyond human understanding. If the prophet Ezekiel never included these descriptions, Christians would have been clueless.
Main Characteristics of Cherubim Portrayal – Ezekiel Description of Angels
- The Cherubim is described to have a total of four faces that differ from one another. Ezekiel mentions in his book how every face represents something. Their first face is of a man which showcases humanity and the ability of reasoning. The lion face is symbolic for strength and leadership. Meanwhile, the face of a bull also represents strength along with loyalty. Lastly, the eagle face shows sharp vision.
- Aside from the four faces, the four wings of Cherubim are equally significant. In Ezekiel Description of Angels, two wings of Cherubim spread upward and facilitate movement. The other two wings cover their body as they move.
- This angelic description of Cherubim also mentions human hands. According to Christian scholars, these human hands signify action and service.
- The wheels within wheels also known as Ophanim is a crucial part of Ezekiel’s portrayal of angels. These wheels turn and move in the direction in which the Cherubim is facing. You’ll know more about the wheels within wheels ahead.
- Moving further, the entire body of the Cherubim angel is covered with multiple eyes. From the back to the hands and the surrounding wheels, everything’s full of eyes. Christians believe that these eyes showcase how God sees everything.
- This angelic creature is deeply connected with the divine presence and glory of God.
Ezekiel Description of Angels “Ophanim” – Wheels Within Wheels
In his visions, Ezekiel saw the angelic figures being accompanied by the Ophanim. This creature is best described as “wheels within wheels”. The Ophanim was sparkling and illuminating light in a unique manner. Ezekiel compared it with precious gemstones in his book’s passage about the visions. As a living creature, the Ophanim is capable of moving in all directions. And, it doesn’t need to turn for movement. In the Biblically accurate contexts, the wheels within wheels are symbolic for mobility of God.
Just like the Cherubim, even this divine creature is fully covered in eyes. They depict how god is everywhere and sees everything. According to the prophet Ezekiel, the Ophanim moved wherever the holy spirit and angels went. Without turning, it proceeded to move effortlessly, seeming as if it’s gliding. This depicts how God controls and sees everything in different realms. In Christian traditions, the Ophanim is connected with the rule and authority of God. Some people believe that it even serves as the Almighty Lord’s throne and chariot.
Ezekiel’s Visions of Angelic Figures & God’s Glory
As has been noted, all of the descriptions of angels covered above originate from Ezekiel’s visions. This prophet had the chance to witness the power and glory of God. According to sources, these divine figures appeared in his vision like a storm full of clouds. Fire and brightness was everywhere he could see. At the same time, he laid eyes in supernatural entities with a radiant glow.
Ezekiel could feel their presence in his soul and it wasn’t a normal experience for a human. The deeply symbolic nature of these visions captivated the prophet. He felt that these visions communicated with him in a mysterious manner. As you may know, the Bible described the angels as messengers and servants of God. That’s why Ezekiel’s visions may have had a hidden message. The celestial beings in his visions described as angels proved God’s presence and power.
Conclusion
From God’s servants to messengers or warriors, the angels in Ezekiel’s visions could have been anything. What’s known is that they are connected with the throne and rule of the Almighty Lord. This glorious encounter in his visions enabled Ezekiel to share these descriptions. The dynamic and powerful nature of God is perfectly symbolised through the Book of Ezekiel. This prophet reminds the faithful Christians that God is actively present everywhere.
FAQs
Where are Ezekiel’s visions mentioned?
These are a part of the Book of Ezekiel. Specifically, Ezekiel 1 and Ezekiel 10.
Who was Ezekiel?
He was a prophet and priest. Ezekiel lived among the other Jewish exiles in Babylon.
Which angelic figures appeared in Ezekiel’s visions?
The Cherubim and the Ophanim are the angels seen by Ezekiel.
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