Exodus 25:18

KJV

And thou shalt make two cherubims [of] gold, [of] beaten work shalt thou make them, in the two ends of the mercy seat.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt make {H6213} two {H8147} cherubims {H3742} of gold {H2091}, of beaten work {H4749} shalt thou make {H6213} them, in the two {H8147} ends {H7098} of the mercy seat {H3727}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You are to make two k'ruvim of gold. Make them of hammered work for the two ends of the ark-cover.

Berean Standard Bible

Make two cherubim of hammered gold at the ends of the mercy seat,

American Standard Version

And thou shalt make two cherubim of gold; of beaten work shalt thou make them, at the two ends of the mercy-seat.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 25:18 provides precise divine instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, specifically detailing the creation of two cherubim from pure gold, to be fashioned as "beaten work" and placed at either end of the mercy seat. This verse is an integral part of God's comprehensive blueprint for the Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred artifact in Israel's worship, which served as the tangible symbol of God's holy presence and His provision for atonement. The meticulous nature of these commands underscores the profound reverence required in approaching a holy God and foreshadows the ultimate means of reconciliation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 25 marks a significant shift in the book, moving from the narrative of Israel's deliverance from Egypt and the establishment of the covenant at Sinai to detailed divine legislation concerning the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings. Following the giving of the Ten Commandments in [Exodus 20](/exodus/20 "Exodus 20 - The Ten Commandments") and the covenant ratification in [Exodus 24](/exodus/24 "Exodus 24 - Covenant Ratification"), God now provides Moses with the exact architectural and material specifications for His dwelling place among His people. Verses [Exodus 25:10-22](/exodus/25-10-22 "Exodus 25:10-22 - Instructions for the Ark of the Covenant") specifically outline the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, its lid (the mercy seat), and the cherubim. This sequence emphasizes that God's presence is not merely an abstract concept but is tangibly manifested through a divinely ordained structure and ritual, making His holiness accessible yet guarded.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, temples and cultic objects were common, often serving as dwelling places for various deities. However, Israel's Tabernacle stood apart due to its monotheistic focus and the explicit, detailed divine revelation guiding its construction. Unlike pagan deities whose images were often worshipped, the God of Israel commanded no graven image of Himself; instead, He chose to dwell above the mercy seat, between the cherubim, a place of unseen glory and divine encounter. The use of precious materials like gold, as commanded in [Exodus 25:11](/exodus/25-11 "Exodus 25:11 - Gold for the Ark"), reflected the supreme value and holiness of the divine presence. The concept of cherubim as guardians of sacred space and attendants to the divine throne was not unique to Israel, but their specific role and placement on the mercy seat were integral to Israel's unique covenant relationship with Yahweh, particularly in the context of atonement for sin, as later detailed in [Leviticus 16](/leviticus/16 "Leviticus 16 - The Day of Atonement").
* **Key Themes:** This chapter, and [Exodus 25:18](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18 - Cherubim on the Mercy Seat") in particular, contributes to several overarching themes in Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, the theme of **Divine Presence** is paramount, as God desires to dwell among His people, yet His holiness necessitates a structured, sacred space. Secondly, **Divine Sovereignty and Authority** are evident in the meticulous and non-negotiable nature of the Tabernacle's design, emphasizing that worship must be conducted on God's terms, not human preference. Thirdly, the theme of **Atonement and Reconciliation** is central, with the mercy seat serving as the focal point where God's justice and mercy converge, providing a means for sinful humanity to approach a holy God. Finally, the **Symbolism of Sacred Space** is deeply explored, with each element of the Tabernacle pointing to profound spiritual realities and foreshadowing future truths.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cherub (Hebrew, _kᵉrûwb'_):** This term refers to a class of celestial beings, often depicted in biblical literature as guardians of sacred space and attendants to God's throne. Their first appearance is in [Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding Eden"), where they guard the way to the Tree of Life after humanity's expulsion from Eden. In Ezekiel's visions, cherubim are associated with God's divine chariot-throne, symbolizing His omnipresence and sovereign power ([Ezekiel 1:5-14](/ezekiel/1-5 "Ezekiel 1:5-14 - Vision of Cherubim")). On the mercy seat, their presence signifies the profound holiness of the divine presence and the guarded nature of access to God, emphasizing His majesty and transcendence.
* **Gold (Hebrew, _zâhâb'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to shimmer," gold is consistently used in the Tabernacle's construction to signify divine glory, purity, and the preciousness of God's presence. Its incorruptible nature also speaks to the eternal and unchanging character of God and His covenant. The command to make the cherubim of gold underscores the supreme value and sacredness of these figures and the divine space they guard.
* **Beaten Work (Hebrew, _miqshâh'_):** This feminine noun refers to rounded work, specifically molded by hammering (repoussé), meaning the cherubim were not to be cast or assembled from separate pieces but hammered out from a single piece of gold, integral to the mercy seat itself. This method emphasizes the unity and seamlessness of the cherubim with the mercy seat, suggesting an inseparable connection between God's holy presence (symbolized by the cherubim) and His provision for atonement (the mercy seat). It also speaks to the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication required for divine service.
* **Mercy Seat (Hebrew, _kappôreth'_):** This term is derived from the verb _kaphar_ (כָּפַר), meaning "to cover," "to atone," or "to make propitiation." It was not merely a lid for the Ark but the central place where the blood of the atoning sacrifice was sprinkled on the Day of Atonement ([Leviticus 16:14-15](/leviticus/16-14-15 "Leviticus 16:14-15 - Blood Sprinkled on the Mercy Seat")). The _kappôreth_ thus represents the place where God's righteous wrath against sin was appeased through sacrifice, allowing Him to extend mercy and communion to His people. It is the focal point of divine grace and reconciliation within the Old Covenant system.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt make two cherubims [of] gold,"**: This command specifies the number and material of the cherubim. The duality signifies a balanced guardianship and perhaps a witness, while gold, being the most precious and incorruptible metal, speaks to the divine purity, glory, and eternal nature of God's presence and His commands. The instruction for their creation directly from God underscores the divine origin and sacredness of these figures, distinguishing them from idols of human invention.
* **"[of] beaten work shalt thou make them,"**: This phrase, _miqshâh_ (מִקְשָׁה), implies that the cherubim were not to be cast or assembled from separate pieces but hammered out from a single piece of gold, integral to the mercy seat itself. This method emphasizes the unity and seamlessness of the cherubim with the mercy seat, suggesting an inseparable connection between God's holy presence (symbolized by the cherubim) and His provision for atonement (the mercy seat). It also speaks to the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication required for divine service, reflecting the high value God places on the details of worship.
* **"in the two ends of the mercy seat."**: This precise placement indicates the cherubim's role as guardians and attendants to the divine presence above the mercy seat. Their position at the "ends" or extremities suggests they flank and frame the sacred space where God would meet with Moses ([Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God Speaks from Above the Mercy Seat")). Facing inward towards the mercy seat, their gaze is directed towards the very place where atonement is made, symbolizing their perpetual witness to God's redemptive work and the profound mystery of propitiation.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 25:18 is rich in **Symbolism**. The cherubim symbolize divine presence, guardianship, and the sacredness of God's dwelling. Their detailed construction from gold signifies God's glory, purity, and the preciousness of His covenant relationship. The "mercy seat" itself is a profound **symbol** of atonement and propitiation, representing the sacred space where God's justice and mercy meet. The instruction for "beaten work" (or hammered work) implies **unity** and **integrity**, suggesting that the cherubim are not separate entities but intrinsically linked to the function of the mercy seat. The entire passage employs **Divine Command** as its primary mode, with God meticulously dictating every detail, emphasizing His sovereignty, authority, and the absolute necessity of obedience in worship. This detailed instruction also serves as a **type** or **foreshadowing**, pointing to a greater reality of divine access and atonement to come.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 25:18, with its focus on the cherubim and the mercy seat, profoundly illustrates God's nature as both transcendentally holy and immanently merciful. The cherubim, guarding the sacred space, underscore the unapproachable holiness of God, a holiness that demands reverence and a divinely appointed means of access. Simultaneously, the "mercy seat" reveals God's gracious provision for humanity's sin, establishing a place where atonement could be made, allowing a holy God to dwell among an unholy people. This tension between divine holiness and human sinfulness, resolved through a sacrificial system centered on the mercy seat, sets the stage for a deeper understanding of God's redemptive plan and His ultimate solution for sin.

* [Leviticus 16:15](/leviticus/16-15 "Sprinkling Blood on the Mercy Seat")
* [Hebrews 9:5](/hebrews/9-5 "Cherubim of Glory Overshadowing the Mercy Seat")
* [Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Christ as the Propitiation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 25:18, though describing ancient artifacts, offers profound insights for contemporary faith. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's absolute holiness and the reverence due to Him. The meticulous detail in the divine instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings, particularly the cherubim and the mercy seat, reveals God's intentionality in providing a way for sinful humanity to approach Him. We are called to approach God not casually, but with a deep sense of awe and gratitude for the path He has opened. This passage encourages us to reflect on the immense cost of our reconciliation with God, understanding that the elaborate Old Covenant system, with its sacrifices and sacred spaces, ultimately pointed to the perfect and final sacrifice of Christ. Our worship, therefore, should be marked by intentionality, reverence, and a profound appreciation for the access we now have through Jesus, recognizing that our access is not earned but graciously given.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed nature of God's commands for the Tabernacle's construction inform your understanding of His character and His expectations for worship?**
* **In what ways do the cherubim and the mercy seat symbolize both God's holiness and His mercy?**
* **How does the concept of "beaten work" (hammered from a single piece) for the cherubim speak to the unity and integrity of God's plan of salvation?**
* **Considering the ultimate fulfillment of the mercy seat in Christ, how should our approach to God differ from or align with the Old Covenant approach?**

### FAQ

**What are cherubim and what is their significance on the mercy seat?**

Answer: Cherubim are celestial beings, often depicted as guardians of sacred spaces and attendants to God's throne. In the Bible, they first appear guarding the way to the Tree of Life in [Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding Eden"). Their presence on the mercy seat in [Exodus 25:18](/exodus/25-18 "Exodus 25:18 - Cherubim on the Mercy Seat") signifies the profound holiness and majesty of God's presence. They symbolize the divine guardianship of the sacred space where God would meet with His people, emphasizing that access to God is both divinely ordained and protected, underscoring His transcendence and the reverence due to Him. Their gaze towards the mercy seat also highlights their witness to the atoning work performed there.

**Why was the "mercy seat" so important, and what does its name imply?**

Answer: The "mercy seat" (Hebrew: _kappôreth_) was the golden lid of the Ark of the Covenant, and it was the most significant piece of the Tabernacle's furniture. Its name is derived from the verb _kaphar_, meaning "to cover" or "to atone." This etymology is crucial because it was on the mercy seat that the high priest would sprinkle the blood of the atoning sacrifice on the Day of Atonement ([Leviticus 16:14-15](/leviticus/16-14-15 "Leviticus 16:14-15 - Blood Sprinkled on the Mercy Seat")). Therefore, the mercy seat was the place where God's righteous wrath against sin was appeased through sacrifice, allowing Him to extend mercy and forgiveness to His people. It was the focal point of propitiation and reconciliation under the Old Covenant, representing God's gracious provision for sin.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 25:18, with its intricate details of the cherubim and the mercy seat, finds its profound and ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament Tabernacle, with its sacred furnishings, was a "copy and shadow of the heavenly things" ([Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "The Heavenly Sanctuary")). The mercy seat, where atonement was made, perfectly prefigured Christ. He is our true "mercy seat," or **propitiation**, as [Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Christ Our Propitiation") declares, meaning He is the one through whom God's wrath against sin is appeased by His own perfect sacrifice on the cross. Just as the cherubim gazed upon the place of atonement, so too does the heavenly host marvel at the redemptive work accomplished by Christ. Through His shed blood, Jesus has entered "into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf" ([Hebrews 9:24](/hebrews/9-24 "Hebrews 9:24 - Christ's Heavenly Ministry")), establishing a new and living way for us to approach God. We no longer need a physical mercy seat or animal sacrifices, for Christ's single, perfect sacrifice has forever secured our access to God's throne of grace, allowing us to "draw near with confidence" ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")). Thus, the cherubim’s vigil over the mercy seat ultimately points to the glory of Christ, the Lamb of God, who truly takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 9:5

And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly.

Ezekiel 10:20

This [is] the living creature that I saw under the God of Israel by the river of Chebar; and I knew that they [were] the cherubims.

Ezekiel 10:2

And he spake unto the man clothed with linen, and said, Go in between the wheels, [even] under the cherub, and fill thine hand with coals of fire from between the cherubims, and scatter [them] over the city. And he went in in my sight.

1 Kings 8:6

And the priests brought in the ark of the covenant of the LORD unto his place, into the oracle of the house, to the most holy [place, even] under the wings of the cherubims.

1 Kings 8:7

For the cherubims spread forth [their] two wings over the place of the ark, and the cherubims covered the ark and the staves thereof above.

1 Chronicles 28:18

And for the altar of incense refined gold by weight; and gold for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubims, that spread out [their wings], and covered the ark of the covenant of the LORD.

Genesis 3:24

So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.