Ezekiel 1:26

KJV

¶ And above the firmament that [was] over their heads [was] the likeness of a throne, as the appearance of a sapphire stone: and upon the likeness of the throne [was] the likeness as the appearance of a man above upon it.

KJV (with Strong's)

And above {H4605} the firmament {H7549} that was over their heads {H7218} was the likeness {H1823} of a throne {H3678}, as the appearance {H4758} of a sapphire {H5601} stone {H68}: and upon the likeness {H1823} of the throne {H3678} was the likeness {H1823} as the appearance {H4758} of a man {H120} above {H4605} upon it.

Complete Jewish Bible

Above the dome that was over their heads was something like a throne that looked like a sapphire. On it, above it, was what appeared to be a person.

Berean Standard Bible

Above the expanse over their heads was the likeness of a throne with the appearance of sapphire, and on the throne high above was a figure like that of a man.

American Standard Version

And above the firmament that was over their heads was the likeness of a throne, as the appearance of a sapphire stone; and upon the likeness of the throne was a likeness as the appearance of a man upon it above.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 1:26 presents the climactic revelation of God's glory within the prophet's inaugural vision, depicting a majestic throne above the celestial firmament, upon which sits a figure with the "likeness as the appearance of a man." This verse underscores God's transcendent sovereignty, His unapproachable holiness symbolized by the sapphire, and His profound condescension in revealing Himself in a form relatable to humanity, even amidst the desolation of exile, thereby assuring His people of His active reign and presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 1:26 serves as the apex of Ezekiel's initial, awe-inspiring vision, which began with a whirlwind and fire, introducing four living creatures (Ezekiel 1:4-14), followed by the intricate, omnidirectional wheels (Ezekiel 1:15-21), and culminating in the description of a dazzling firmament above their heads (Ezekiel 1:22-25). This verse directly follows the description of the firmament, providing the ultimate revelation of the divine occupant of the mobile throne-chariot. It transitions from the elaborate machinery and celestial architecture to the very presence of God, establishing the source of the glory that fills the vision, as further elaborated in [Ezekiel 1:27-28](/ezekiel/1-27 "Ezekiel 1:27-28 - The Appearance of Glory"). The entire chapter builds to this moment, emphasizing the order, power, and transcendence of the God who is revealing Himself.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The vision of Ezekiel 1 occurred in the fifth year of King Jehoiachin's exile (Ezekiel 1:2), placing it around 593 BC, seven years before the final destruction of Jerusalem and its Temple by the Babylonians. Ezekiel, a priest, was among the exiles by the Chebar Canal in Babylon. In a time when the people believed God was confined to the Temple in Jerusalem, this vision profoundly challenged that notion, demonstrating God's omnipresence and sovereignty extending even into the land of exile. The imagery of a throne and a divine figure would have resonated with Mesopotamian concepts of powerful deities, yet Ezekiel's portrayal distinctly elevates the God of Israel as supreme, not bound by geography or human structures, offering a message of hope and divine presence to a disoriented and despairing people.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several core themes found throughout the book of Ezekiel. First, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Transcendence**, with the "throne" signifying God's ultimate authority and kingship, positioned "above the firmament" to denote His being beyond and above all creation. Second, the **Anthropomorphic Revelation** in the "likeness as the appearance of a man" is crucial. While God is Spirit and incomprehensible in His essence, He chooses to reveal Himself in a form relatable to humanity, emphasizing His personal nature and capacity to interact with His creation. This foreshadows the ultimate divine condescension seen in the New Testament. Third, the **Glory and Majesty of God's Presence** is underscored by the "sapphire stone," a symbol of purity, majesty, and the unapproachable brilliance of God, echoing similar descriptions in [Exodus 24:10](/exodus/24-10 "Exodus 24:10 - The Elders See God") and anticipating the heavenly throne room in [Revelation 4](/revelation/4 "Revelation 4 - The Throne Room of Heaven"). This vision reassures the exiles that God's glory has not departed from them, but rather accompanies them, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His covenant people, as seen throughout [Ezekiel's prophetic ministry](/ezekiel/1 "Ezekiel 1 - The Prophet's Calling").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **likeness (Hebrew, _dᵉmûwth'_):** From the root דָּמָה (damah), meaning "resemblance; concretely, model, shape; adverbially, like." This term is crucial, appearing three times in the verse, underscoring that Ezekiel is not seeing God directly in His essence, but rather a representation or an image. This maintains God's ultimate transcendence and incomprehensibility while allowing for a tangible, albeit symbolic, revelation to the prophet. It prevents any idolatrous or literal interpretation of the divine form.
* **throne (Hebrew, _kiççêʼ'_):** From כָּסָה (kasah), properly meaning "covered," hence "a throne (as canopied); seat, stool." The presence of a throne immediately establishes the divine occupant as a sovereign ruler, a king. Its position "above the firmament" emphasizes God's supreme authority, not just over Israel, but over all creation, reinforcing His universal kingship and the ultimate source of power and judgment.
* **man (Hebrew, _ʼâdâm'_):** From אָדַם (adam), meaning "ruddy i.e. a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)." The phrase "likeness as the appearance of a man" is profoundly significant. It is not a literal description of God having a physical body, but a symbolic representation. This anthropomorphic imagery allows for a relatable encounter with the divine, suggesting God's personal nature and His capacity to relate to humanity, even in His transcendent glory. It hints at a divine-human connection that will be fully realized in the Incarnation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And above the firmament that [was] over their heads [was] the likeness of a throne":** This clause establishes the hierarchical structure of the vision, placing the divine authority atop the celestial expanse and above the living creatures. The "firmament" (Hebrew: *raqiya'*) is the vast, crystal-like expanse described in the preceding verses, separating the lower elements from the divine presence. The "likeness of a throne" immediately signals the presence of supreme authority and kingship, indicating that the entire elaborate structure of the living creatures and wheels serves as a mobile chariot-throne for God.
* **"as the appearance of a sapphire stone":** This detail describes the visual quality of the throne, not its material. Sapphire, a precious, deep blue stone, evokes images of the heavens, purity, majesty, and immense value. It signifies the unapproachable brilliance, holiness, and transcendent glory of God's presence, aligning with other biblical descriptions of divine majesty (e.g., the pavement under God's feet in Exodus 24:10). The "appearance" again emphasizes that Ezekiel is perceiving a manifestation, not the essence.
* **"and upon the likeness of the throne [was] the likeness as the appearance of a man above upon it":** This is the climactic revelation. The repetition of "likeness" and "appearance" is crucial, reinforcing that this is a symbolic, not literal, depiction of God. The figure on the throne is not explicitly named as God but is described in anthropomorphic terms, "as the appearance of a man." This profound imagery conveys God's personal nature and His ability to relate to humanity, even in His transcendent glory, bridging the gap between the infinite and the finite. It is a revelation designed to be comprehensible, yet still awe-inspiring and mysterious.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 1:26 is rich in **Symbolism** and **Anthropomorphism**. The **throne** itself is a powerful symbol of divine sovereignty, authority, and kingship, indicating God's ultimate rule over all creation. Its placement "above the firmament" further emphasizes God's **Transcendence**, signifying that He is beyond and above all earthly and even celestial phenomena. The "sapphire stone" is symbolic of divine majesty, purity, and the unapproachable brilliance of God's presence, often associated with the heavens and God's glory in biblical literature. The most striking device is **Anthropomorphism**, the attribution of human characteristics or form to God, seen in "the likeness as the appearance of a man." This is not a literal depiction but a symbolic representation, allowing for a relatable encounter with the divine while preserving God's ultimate incomprehensibility. The repeated use of "likeness" (Hebrew: *demuth*) and "appearance" (Hebrew: *mareh*) functions as a **Literary Safeguard**, preventing any literal or idolatrous interpretation of God's form, emphasizing that Ezekiel is seeing a manifestation, not God in His essence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 1:26 is a profound theological statement on God's enduring presence and sovereignty, even in the most desolate circumstances. It asserts that God's throne is not confined to Jerusalem or any earthly temple, but is mobile and transcendent, signifying His active reign over all creation, regardless of human location or political upheaval. The "likeness of a man" on the throne is a deeply significant anthropomorphic revelation, hinting at God's desire for personal relationship and His willingness to condescend to human understanding. This vision provides comfort and assurance to the exiles, reminding them that their God is not absent or powerless, but majestically enthroned and actively involved in their history.

* [Exodus 24:10](/exodus/24-10 "Exodus 24:10 - The Elders See God on a Sapphire Pavement")
* [Isaiah 6:1](/isaiah/6-1 "Isaiah 6:1 - Isaiah's Vision of the Lord on a Throne")
* [Revelation 4:2-3](/revelation/4-2 "Revelation 4:2-3 - The Throne in Heaven")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel's vision of God enthroned above the firmament, even in exile, offers immense comfort and challenge to believers today. It reminds us that our God is not limited by our circumstances, our perceived failures, or the chaos of the world. He remains sovereign, His throne is established, and His presence is active, regardless of where we find ourselves. This vision calls us to lift our gaze beyond our immediate troubles and anxieties, to fix our eyes on the majestic, transcendent God who reigns supreme. The "likeness of a man" on the throne also invites us to consider God's profound desire to relate to humanity, a desire fully expressed in the person of Jesus Christ. It encourages us to trust in His ultimate control and to find peace in His unwavering presence, knowing that even in our personal "exiles" or periods of despair, His glory is near.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of God's throne being "above the firmament" challenge or affirm your understanding of God's presence in your life, especially during difficult times?**
* **What does the "likeness as the appearance of a man" on the throne communicate about God's character and His relationship with humanity?**
* **In what ways can you apply the truth of God's transcendent sovereignty to a specific challenge or uncertainty you are currently facing?**

### FAQ
**Why is God described as having the "likeness as the appearance of a man" if God is Spirit?**

Answer: The description "likeness as the appearance of a man" (Hebrew: *dᵉmûwth marʼeh ʼâdâm*) is a crucial example of anthropomorphic language in the Bible. It does not mean God literally has a physical body at this point, as God is spirit ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - God is Spirit")). Instead, it signifies that God chose to reveal Himself in a form that Ezekiel, a human prophet, could comprehend and relate to. The repeated use of "likeness" and "appearance" emphasizes that this was a symbolic manifestation, not a direct view of God's essence. It highlights God's condescension and His desire to communicate with humanity, making Himself knowable without compromising His transcendence or inviting idolatry. This foreshadows the ultimate divine condescension in the Incarnation of Jesus Christ.

**What is the significance of the "sapphire stone" in this vision?**

Answer: The "sapphire stone" (Hebrew: *çappîyr ʼeben*) is consistently associated with divine glory, majesty, and the heavens in biblical literature. In [Exodus 24:10](/exodus/24-10 "Exodus 24:10 - The Elders See God's Feet on Sapphire"), the elders of Israel see a pavement of sapphire under God's feet on Mount Sinai. Here in Ezekiel, it describes the appearance of the throne itself. Its deep blue color likely evokes the pure, unblemished expanse of the sky, symbolizing God's purity, unapproachable holiness, and the breathtaking beauty of His divine presence. It underscores the preciousness and incomparable nature of God's glory, which is beyond human comprehension and earthly comparison, yet revealed in a way that inspires awe.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 1:26, with its profound imagery of the "likeness as the appearance of a man" upon the divine throne, finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. While Ezekiel's vision was a symbolic, veiled revelation of God's personal nature, it powerfully foreshadowed the Incarnation. In Christ, the transcendent God truly took on human form, becoming the [Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") who "dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). The "man" on the throne in Ezekiel's vision prefigures the one who is both fully God and fully man, the [Son of Man](/mark/14-62 "Mark 14:62 - Jesus Identifies as the Son of Man") who would ascend to the right hand of the Father, taking His rightful place on the [throne of glory](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Jesus Sits at the Right Hand of God"). Jesus, as the [image of the invisible God](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God"), perfectly bridges the gap between the divine and human, making God truly knowable and accessible. He is the one through whom we can now approach the throne of grace with confidence ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")), fulfilling the deepest longing implied by Ezekiel's vision of a God who condescends to relate to humanity.

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

Ezekiel 10:1

¶ Then I looked, and, behold, in the firmament that was above the head of the cherubims there appeared over them as it were a sapphire stone, as the appearance of the likeness of a throne.

Exodus 24:10

And they saw the God of Israel: and [there was] under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in [his] clearness.

Revelation 1:13

And in the midst of the seven candlesticks [one] like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.

Ezekiel 1:22

And the likeness of the firmament upon the heads of the living creature [was] as the colour of the terrible crystal, stretched forth over their heads above.

Daniel 10:18

Then there came again and touched me [one] like the appearance of a man, and he strengthened me,

Hebrews 12:2

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Revelation 14:14

And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud [one] sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle.