Exodus 37:8

KJV

One cherub on the end on this side, and another cherub on the [other] end on that side: out of the mercy seat made he the cherubims on the two ends thereof.

KJV (with Strong's)

One {H259} cherub {H3742} on the end {H7098} on this side, and another {H259} cherub {H3742} on the other end {H7098} on that side: out of the mercy seat {H3727} made {H6213} he the cherubims {H3742} on the two {H8147} ends {H7098}{H7099} thereof.

Complete Jewish Bible

one keruv for one end and one keruv for the other end; he made the k'ruvim of one piece with the ark-cover at its two ends.

Berean Standard Bible

one cherub on one end and one on the other, all made from one piece of gold.

American Standard Version

one cherub at the one end, and one cherub at the other end: of one piece with the mercy-seat made he the cherubim at the two ends thereof.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 37:8 precisely details the construction of the cherubim on the mercy seat, emphasizing their singular origin "out of" the same piece of gold as the mercy seat itself and their symmetrical placement at each end. This meticulous description within the Tabernacle's construction narrative highlights the divine precision, unified design, and inherent holiness of the most sacred object in Israel's wilderness sanctuary, underscoring the inseparable connection between God's majestic presence and His provision for atonement.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 37 is part of the extensive section (Exodus 35-40) that meticulously recounts the actual construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, fulfilling the divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle"). Specifically, verses 6-9 of Exodus 37 focus on the creation of the mercy seat (`kapporeth`) and its accompanying cherubim, immediately following the construction of the Ark of the Covenant itself (Exodus 37:1-5). This reiteration of the divine blueprint, now as completed work, underscores the Israelites' obedient response to God's detailed commands and the precise fulfillment of His will. The mercy seat served as the lid for the Ark, which housed the tablets of the covenant, thereby signifying the intimate connection between God's law, His presence, and His provision for grace. The cherubim, integral to this design, were not mere ornamentation but held profound theological significance, symbolizing the guarded holiness of God's throne and the means of access to His presence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Tabernacle occurred during Israel's formative period in the wilderness, immediately following their miraculous liberation from Egyptian bondage. God's command to build this portable sanctuary was a direct response to His covenant promise to dwell among His people, establishing a tangible center for worship and a visible representation of His presence. This divine dwelling distinguished Israel from surrounding pagan nations, whose worship often involved crude idols and local shrines. The intricate details, such as the cherubim being fashioned "out of" the mercy seat from pure gold, reflected the divine standard of holiness, perfection, and immense value attributed to God's dwelling place. This level of craftsmanship stood in stark contrast to the often-idolatrous practices of other cultures. The entire Tabernacle structure, particularly the [Ark of the Covenant](/exodus/25-10 "Exodus 25:10 - Instructions for the Ark of the Covenant") and the mercy seat, was designed to facilitate atonement and communion between a holy God and His sinful people, culminating in the annual [Day of Atonement](/leviticus/16 "Leviticus 16 - The Day of Atonement"), when the high priest would sprinkle blood upon the mercy seat.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 37:8 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. The theme of **Divine Presence** is central, as the Tabernacle was God's chosen dwelling place among His people, making Him accessible yet also emphasizing His transcendent holiness. The meticulous detail of the construction, especially the unified nature of the mercy seat and cherubim, reinforces the theme of **Divine Precision and Perfection** in God's commands and design; every element is purposeful and perfectly integrated. Furthermore, the verse highlights the theme of **Atonement and Reconciliation**, as the mercy seat was the focal point for the covering of sin, allowing a holy God to dwell among an unholy people. The cherubim, often associated with guarding sacred spaces (e.g., [Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding the Garden of Eden")), here symbolize the guarded nature of God's holiness, yet paradoxically, their presence on the mercy seat points to the divinely ordained means of access. The theme of **Obedience to Divine Command** is also evident throughout Exodus 35-40, as the Israelites faithfully execute the blueprint given in [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle Furnishings").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cherub (Hebrew, _kᵉrûwb'_):** (H3742) This term refers to a cherub or an imaginary figure, often depicted as celestial, angelic beings who serve as guardians of sacred spaces and symbols of God's glory and presence. Their first appearance in Scripture is guarding the [Garden of Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding the Garden of Eden") after the Fall, preventing access to the tree of life. On the mercy seat, their presence signifies the holiness and guarded nature of God's throne, yet also, paradoxically, the means of access through atonement. Their posture, facing inward towards the mercy seat with wings outstretched, suggests both reverence and a protective stance over the divine presence.
* **Mercy Seat (Hebrew, _kappôreth'_):** (H3727) This word, meaning "a lid" and specifically referring to the cover of the sacred Ark, is derived from the verb _kaphar_, meaning "to cover," "to atone," or "to make propitiation." The `kappôreth` was the solid gold lid of the Ark of the Covenant, and its name inherently defines its primary function: the place where atonement for sins was made. It was here, on the Day of Atonement, that the high priest would sprinkle the blood of the sin offering, symbolically covering the sins of Israel and enabling God's presence to remain among His people without consuming them in their sin. It is the focal point of God's condescension to meet with humanity.
* **Made (Hebrew, _ʻâsâh'_):** (H6213) This primitive root means "to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application." In the context of Exodus 37:8, when it says "out of the mercy seat made he the cherubims," it signifies a specific method of creation: the cherubim were not separately crafted and then affixed, but rather were formed by hammering and working the same piece of pure gold from which the mercy seat was made. This `mikshah` (hammered work) technique emphasizes a unified, indivisible whole, reflecting the seamless integration of God's holiness and His provision for atonement.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"One cherub on the end on this side, and another cherub on the [other] end on that side":** This clause precisely describes the symmetrical and balanced placement of the two cherubim. They were positioned at opposite ends of the mercy seat, facing each other with their wings spread out and upward, overshadowing the mercy seat. This deliberate arrangement underscores the divine order and precision inherent in God's instructions, ensuring the sanctity and balance of the most holy space. Their facing inward towards the mercy seat also highlights their focus on the place of atonement and God's presence, indicating their role as guardians of the divine encounter.
* **"out of the mercy seat made he the cherubims on the two ends thereof":** This pivotal part of the verse specifies the method of construction, reiterating the instruction from [Exodus 25:19](/exodus/25-19 "Exodus 25:19 - Instructions for the Cherubim"). The cherubim were not crafted as distinct pieces and then attached, but rather were formed by hammering and working the same solid block of pure gold from which the mercy seat itself was made. This `mikshah` (מִקְשָׁה) or "hammered work" technique signifies a unified, indivisible whole. It profoundly emphasizes that the cherubim, as guardians of God's holiness, are intrinsically linked to the mercy seat, the very place where His holiness is appeased through atonement. Their unity speaks to the singular, perfect nature of God's plan for reconciliation and His presence among His people.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 37:8 employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological meaning. **Symbolism** is paramount, with the cherubim symbolizing divine guardianship, the awe-inspiring holiness of God, and the sacredness of His presence. The mercy seat itself is a powerful symbol of divine grace, propitiation, and the locus where God condescends to meet with humanity. The detailed description of their unified construction through **`mikshah` (hammered work)** serves as a form of **Emphasis**, underscoring the inseparability of God's holiness (represented by the cherubim) and His provision for atonement (the mercy seat). This unity also suggests **Divine Precision** and **Perfection** in God's design, where every component is meticulously crafted and integrated into a harmonious whole, leaving no room for human improvisation. The verse also implicitly uses **Metonymy**, where "mercy seat" stands for the entire process and reality of atonement and God's accessible presence, representing the means by which a holy God can dwell among a sinful people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 37:8, in its meticulous description of the mercy seat and its cherubim, powerfully conveys the dual nature of God's character: His absolute holiness and His gracious desire to dwell among His people. The cherubim, often associated with guarding God's sacred spaces and glory, signify the barrier that human sin creates between humanity and a holy God. Yet, their placement on the mercy seat, the very place of atonement, highlights God's sovereign provision for overcoming that barrier. This unified construction underscores that access to God's presence is not arbitrary but is strictly on His terms, through the prescribed means of propitiation. It foreshadows a greater reality where God's justice and His mercy perfectly converge in a singular, divinely orchestrated act of redemption, revealing that His holiness is not a hindrance to relationship but the very foundation upon which true reconciliation is built.

* [Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "God Promises to Meet Moses at the Mercy Seat")
* [Leviticus 16:14-16](/leviticus/16-14-16 "The Day of Atonement Rituals")
* [Hebrews 9:5](/hebrews/9-5 "The Cherubim of Glory Overshadowing the Mercy Seat")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous detail in Exodus 37:8, describing the cherubim hammered "out of" the mercy seat, invites us to ponder the profound unity and intentionality of God's plan for our salvation. It reminds us that God's holiness is not a distant, unapproachable attribute, but one that is intimately connected with His provision for mercy. Just as the cherubim and the mercy seat were one piece, so too are God's justice and His love perfectly integrated in His redemptive work. This passage challenges us to consider the immense cost and careful design behind our access to God. It calls us to approach Him with reverence, understanding that our ability to draw near is not due to our merit but solely to His gracious provision through atonement. It also encourages us to trust in the completeness and perfection of God's plan, knowing that every detail, from the ancient Tabernacle to the cross, was divinely orchestrated for our reconciliation. This unity of holiness and mercy should inspire both awe and confidence in our relationship with God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the unity of the cherubim and the mercy seat, crafted from a single piece of gold, deepen your understanding of God's holiness and His mercy?**
* **In what ways does the concept of "atonement" as represented by the mercy seat inform your daily walk with God and your understanding of forgiveness?**
* **Considering the guarded nature of God's presence in the Tabernacle, how does the New Covenant's promise of direct access to God's throne of grace impact your prayer life and worship?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the cherubim being made "out of" the mercy seat?**

Answer: The phrase "out of" (Hebrew: `min`) signifies that the cherubim were not separate pieces attached to the mercy seat but were hammered and formed from the very same solid block of pure gold. This construction method, known as `mikshah`, emphasizes the seamless unity and integrity of the entire structure. It highlights that the guardians of God's holiness (the cherubim) and the place of atonement (the mercy seat) are intrinsically one, reflecting the singular, perfect, and indivisible nature of God's plan for reconciliation and His presence among His people. It shows that God's holiness and His mercy are not at odds but are perfectly integrated in His divine design for humanity's redemption.

**What was the primary function of the mercy seat?**

Answer: The primary function of the mercy seat (`kapporet`) was to serve as the place of atonement for the sins of Israel. It was the golden lid of the [Ark of the Covenant](/exodus/25-17 "Instructions for the Mercy Seat"), located in the Most Holy Place of the Tabernacle. Once a year, on the [Day of Atonement](/leviticus/16 "The Day of Atonement"), the high priest would enter the Most Holy Place and sprinkle the blood of the sin offering upon the mercy seat. This act symbolically covered the sins of the people, making propitiation and allowing a holy God to dwell among His sinful people without consuming them. It was the focal point where God promised to meet with Moses and speak to him, as seen in [Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "God Promises to Meet Moses at the Mercy Seat"), signifying the place of divine encounter and reconciliation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 37:8, with its intricate depiction of the cherubim and the mercy seat, serves as a profound Old Testament type pointing directly to the person and work of Jesus Christ. The mercy seat, the `kapporet`, literally "the covering," finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who is our true "propitiation" (as described in [Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Christ as Propitiation") and [1 John 2:2](/1_john/2-2 "Christ, the Propitiation for Our Sins")). Just as the mercy seat was the place where blood was applied to cover sins, Jesus, through His once-for-all sacrifice on the cross, shed His own blood, providing a perfect and permanent covering for the sins of the world. The cherubim, guarding God's holiness, symbolize the barrier that sin created between humanity and God; yet, through Christ, that barrier has been definitively removed. He is the ultimate High Priest, who entered the true heavenly sanctuary, not with the blood of animals, but with His own precious blood, securing eternal redemption (as beautifully explained in [Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Christ, Our High Priest")). In Christ, the holiness of God and the mercy of God perfectly converge, allowing us to boldly approach the "throne of grace" ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Approach the Throne of Grace")) with confidence, for He Himself is the living embodiment of God dwelling among His people ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh")). He is the ultimate fulfillment of God's desire to be present with humanity, providing the perfect means of atonement and access to the Father.

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.