“And the two cherubims spread out 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 37:22 (KJV)
“The cherubim had their wings spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat with them. They faced each other, looking toward the mercy seat.” – Exodus 37:22 (NLT)
“The cherubim spread their wings over the mercy seat, forming a kind of canopy, and they looked at each other, their faces toward the mercy seat.” – Exodus 37:22 (MSG)
What Does Exodus 37:22 Mean?
Exodus 37:22 brings the imagery of the cherubim to life, showcasing one of the most sacred environments in biblical history—the holy of holies within the Tabernacle. The presence of cherubim signifies a protective covering, while also serving as guardians of God’s holiness. In this verse, the cherubim facing toward each other add a sense of unity and divine intention. They create an atmosphere where God’s mercy and presence dwell with His people. This powerful image relays a profound message: God’s desire is for a close relationship with us, and He carefully sets the stage for this interaction through sacred symbols.
As we reflect upon what Exodus 37:22 means to us today, it is essential to recognize the significance of God’s mercy and how it is presented to us through the choice of imagery in this verse. These heavenly beings not only provide a visual representation of divine protection, but they also remind us of the importance of reverence when coming before the Lord. The act of looking toward the mercy seat illustrates a focus on grace and forgiveness, a core aspect of our relationship with God.
Exodus 37:22 Explanation and Commentary
In the context of Exodus 37, we uncover the meticulous details of God’s instruction to Moses regarding the construction of the Tabernacle, where He would dwell among His people. The cherubim were integral to this sacred sanctuary. Their intricate design and placement demonstrate God’s desire for His holiness to be honored and revered. The mercy seat, where the cherubim’s wings embrace, serves as a reminder of God’s mercy towards sinners, acknowledging that none of us are worthy, yet He invites us into His presence.
The cherubim represent more than just decorations; they serve a significant role in our understanding of God’s nature. By looking toward the mercy seat, they evoke a constant reminder of the grace we receive through Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice allows us to approach God with boldness. The fact that the cherubim face each other while looking down toward the mercy seat can be interpreted as symbolic guardianship over the profound act of mercy that God extends to humanity. In a way, it emphasizes the importance of mercy being a communal aspect, as their connection points to our collective need for grace.
Furthermore, we can relate this symbolic imagery to Jesus’ role as our advocate. Just as the cherubim li