Ezekiel 1:5

KJV

Also out of the midst thereof [came] the likeness of four living creatures. And this [was] their appearance; they had the likeness of a man.

KJV (with Strong's)

Also out of the midst {H8432} thereof came the likeness {H1823} of four {H702} living creatures {H2416}. And this was their appearance {H4758}; they {H2007} had the likeness {H1823} of a man {H120}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Inside, there appeared to be four living creatures that looked like human beings;

Berean Standard Bible

and within it was the form of four living creatures. And this was their appearance: They had a human form,

American Standard Version

And out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living creatures. And this was their appearance: they had the likeness of a man;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 1:5 initiates the detailed description of the awe-inspiring vision received by the prophet, revealing the emergence of "the likeness of four living creatures" from the heart of a radiant, fiery cloud. This verse specifically introduces their fundamental form, noting their primary appearance as possessing "the likeness of a man," thereby grounding the otherwise transcendent and otherworldly manifestation in a relatable, yet profoundly symbolic, anthropomorphic representation that sets the stage for the unfolding revelation of divine majesty and purpose.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 1:5 immediately follows the dramatic preamble to Ezekiel's prophetic visions, which describe an intense divine manifestation. [Ezekiel 1:1-3](/ezekiel/1-1-3 "Ezekiel 1:1-3 - Ezekiel's Prophetic Call") establishes the precise setting—the thirtieth year, by the Chebar River in Babylon—situating the prophet among the Jewish exiles. This context is critical, as it underscores God's presence and activity even outside the promised land and the Temple. [Ezekiel 1:4](/ezekiel/1-4 "Ezekiel 1:4 - The Fiery Cloud and Divine Glory") then sets the stage for the creatures' appearance, depicting a powerful whirlwind, a great cloud, flashing fire, and brilliant light from which "the likeness of four living creatures" emerges. Thus, Ezekiel 1:5 transitions from the general atmospheric phenomena of the theophany to the specific, detailed components of God's heavenly chariot-throne, serving as the first concrete description of the beings central to Ezekiel's subsequent visions. It initiates the visual unpacking of the divine glory previously hinted at, moving from the ethereal to the tangible, albeit symbolic.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The vision of Ezekiel 1 occurs during the Babylonian exile (c. 593 BCE), a period of immense national and spiritual devastation for the Israelite people. Displaced from their homeland, with Jerusalem and its Temple facing impending destruction, many questioned God's presence, power, and faithfulness so far from the traditional locus of His dwelling. Ezekiel, a priest, receives this profound revelation not in Jerusalem but in Babylon, by the Chebar River. This geographical detail is paramount, as it powerfully conveys the theological truth that God's sovereignty and presence are not confined to the Temple or the land of Israel, but extend universally, even to the place of their captivity. The imagery of a mobile throne-chariot, of which these creatures are an integral part, would have been particularly significant, offering assurance to the exiles that God was indeed with them, active and sovereign, even in a foreign land. The initial description of their "likeness of a man" might also subtly connect to the foundational biblical concept of humanity created in [God's image](/genesis/1-26 "Genesis 1:26 - Man Created in God's Image"), offering a point of relatable contact within an otherwise overwhelming vision for a people grappling with their identity and relationship with God.

* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 1:5 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Ezekiel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it introduces the theme of **Divine Revelation and Theophany**, as the appearance of these creatures is an essential component of God's self-manifestation to His prophet, revealing His glory and attributes in a tangible, albeit symbolic, way. This vision powerfully underscores God's active involvement in human history, even during periods of judgment and exile. Secondly, the description emphasizes the **Mysterious and Awe-Inspiring** nature of God's heavenly court; the complex and enigmatic forms of these creatures are designed to evoke profound reverence and highlight the transcendent, incomprehensible majesty of God. The vision's intricate details, unfolding in subsequent verses like [Ezekiel 1:10](/ezekiel/1-10 "Ezekiel 1:10 - The Four Faces") and [Ezekiel 1:26-28](/ezekiel/1-26-28 "Ezekiel 1:26-28 - The Throne and Glory of God"), progressively reveal the multifaceted nature of divine power. Thirdly, the phrase "likeness of a man" introduces **Anthropomorphic Elements** into the vision, suggesting intelligence, personality, and perhaps God's interaction with humanity, or that these beings serve as agents in His plan for mankind, who was created in [God's own likeness](/genesis/1-26 "Genesis 1:26 - Man Created in God's Image"). This human resemblance, combined with other animalistic features described later, points to the comprehensive scope of God's dominion over all creation and the diverse ways His attributes are expressed.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **likeness (Hebrew, _dᵉmûwth'_):** This term (H1823) signifies resemblance, similitude, or a model, rather than an exact replica or intrinsic form. Its repeated use in this verse and throughout the vision is crucial, indicating that Ezekiel is perceiving a representation or a symbolic form of these heavenly beings, not their literal, unadulterated essence. This reinforces the visionary nature of the encounter, suggesting that God reveals Himself in ways comprehensible to human perception, yet always retaining His transcendent mystery. It implies a partial, mediated revelation, where the form is a pointer to a deeper, ineffable reality.
* **living creatures (Hebrew, _chay'_):** Derived from H2416, this word emphasizes vitality, inherent life, and active existence. These are not static or inanimate figures but dynamic, vibrant beings, full of inherent power and purpose. The plural "creatures" (or "beasts" in some translations) highlights their distinct, animate nature, distinguishing them from mere apparitions or abstract concepts. Their "living" quality underscores their role as active agents in the divine realm, constantly moving and serving God's will, embodying the very essence of life that proceeds from God.
* **man (Hebrew, _ʼâdâm'_):** This term (H120) refers to a human being, whether an individual or mankind as a species. In this context, it grounds the otherwise otherworldly appearance of the creatures in a recognizable, relatable form. While the creatures possess other faces (lion, ox, eagle, as revealed later in [Ezekiel 1:10](/ezekiel/1-10 "Ezekiel 1:10 - The Four Faces")), the initial and prominent mention of the "likeness of a man" suggests intelligence, rationality, and perhaps a connection to humanity's unique role in God's creation. It introduces a point of profound connection between the divine and the human, possibly reflecting God's own attributes as He relates to humanity, or signifying the beings' capacity for intelligent service in God's plan for mankind.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Also out of the midst thereof [came] the likeness of four living creatures":** This opening clause describes the origin and initial manifestation of these celestial beings. They emerge from the very center ("midst," H8432, _tâvek'_) of the fiery, radiant cloud described in [Ezekiel 1:4](/ezekiel/1-4 "Ezekiel 1:4 - The Fiery Cloud and Divine Glory"), indicating their divine source and intimate connection to God's immediate presence. The term "likeness" (H1823, _dᵉmûwth'_) is vital, signaling that what Ezekiel sees is a symbolic representation, not the creatures' intrinsic form, emphasizing the visionary and mediated nature of the encounter. The "four living creatures" (H2416, _chay'_) are introduced as distinct, animate entities, full of vitality and purpose, signifying their active role in the divine economy.
* **"And this [was] their appearance; they had the likeness of a man":** This second clause shifts from their emergence to their initial, overall form and most striking characteristic. "Appearance" (H4758, _marʼeh'_) refers to what is seen, the visual aspect or external form. The statement "they had the likeness of a man" (H120, _ʼâdâm'_) is the first specific characteristic given, establishing a foundational anthropomorphic element. This human resemblance, though later complicated by other animalistic faces, suggests that these divine beings possess qualities like intelligence, reason, and perhaps moral agency, or that they represent aspects of God's interaction with humanity, who was created in His image. It provides a point of initial recognition and profound theological significance within an otherwise overwhelming and alien vision, hinting at a divine-human connection even in the heavenly realm.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 1:5 masterfully employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Theophany** is the overarching device, as the entire vision is a manifestation of God's presence and glory. The emergence of the creatures from the fiery cloud is a classic element of divine appearance, evoking both awe and dread, signaling a direct encounter with the divine. **Symbolism** is central, as the "likeness" (H1823, _dᵉmûwth'_) of the creatures is not literal but representative, pointing to deeper spiritual realities. The "four living creatures" are symbolic of powerful angelic beings (later identified as **Cherubim** in [Ezekiel 10:15](/ezekiel/10-15 "Ezekiel 10:15 - Cherubim Identified")), embodying aspects of divine power, omnipresence, and perhaps the four cardinal directions or the totality of creation under God's dominion. The specific mention of the "likeness of a man" introduces **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human form or characteristics to non-human, celestial entities. This device makes the transcendent more comprehensible and relatable, suggesting intelligence, purpose, and perhaps a profound connection to humanity's creation in God's image. The repeated use of "likeness" itself is a form of **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, where a part (the appearance or representation) stands for the whole (the being), emphasizing that the prophet is seeing a mediated, not direct, reality, underscoring the ineffable nature of God's glory.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 1:5, by introducing the "likeness of four living creatures" with a foundational "likeness of a man," immediately establishes a profound connection between the divine realm and humanity. This initial anthropomorphic description, even within a highly symbolic and otherworldly vision, suggests that God's heavenly court and His divine agents are not entirely alien but possess qualities that resonate with human intelligence, personality, and perhaps even the divine image in which humanity was created. It underscores God's sovereignty over all creation, from the highest celestial beings to humanity, and His capacity to communicate and interact with His chosen servants. The vision's occurrence in exile also powerfully conveys God's omnipresence and continued active involvement with His people, regardless of their geographical location or circumstances of despair, assuring them that His glory had not departed.

* [Genesis 1:26](/genesis/1-26 "Genesis 1:26 - Man Created in God's Image")
* [Revelation 4:6-8](/revelation/4-6-8 "Revelation 4:6-8 - The Four Living Creatures Around the Throne")
* [Psalm 104:4](/psalms/104-4 "Psalm 104:4 - God Makes His Messengers Winds")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel's vision, beginning with these mysterious yet human-like creatures, offers a powerful reminder that God's presence is not confined by human expectations, geographical boundaries, or even our most dire circumstances. For the exiles, this vision by the Chebar River was a profound assurance that God was still with them, active and sovereign, even in Babylon, a foreign land of captivity. For us today, it teaches that divine revelation often comes in unexpected, awe-inspiring, and sometimes perplexing forms that challenge our preconceived notions of God. The "likeness of a man" amidst the divine majesty suggests that while God is utterly transcendent and beyond full comprehension, He also relates to humanity in ways we can comprehend, and His heavenly agents may bear a resemblance to our created form, perhaps reflecting the image of God. This should encourage us to remain open to God's presence and activity in all areas of our lives, even when circumstances are chaotic or unclear, trusting that His glory can break through in surprising ways, offering hope, direction, and a renewed sense of His unwavering sovereignty and intimate care for His creation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the initial description of the "likeness of a man" in these heavenly creatures impact your understanding of God's relationship with humanity and His creation?**
* **In what ways might God be revealing His presence or purposes to you in "unexpected places" or through "awe-inspiring" experiences in your own life, challenging your comfort zones?**
* **How does the idea of God's presence being unconfined by location (e.g., in exile by the Chebar River) offer comfort or challenge to your faith today, especially when you feel distant from Him?**

### FAQ

**What are these "four living creatures" and why do they have the "likeness of a man"?**

Answer: These "four living creatures" are powerful angelic beings, later explicitly identified as cherubim in [Ezekiel 10:15](/ezekiel/10-15 "Ezekiel 10:15 - Cherubim Identified") and [Ezekiel 10:20](/ezekiel/10-20 "Ezekiel 10:20 - Cherubim Identified"). They are integral components of God's mobile throne-chariot, serving as carriers of His glory and instruments of His divine will. Their "likeness of a man" is the first and most prominent characteristic given in this verse, suggesting intelligence, rationality, and perhaps a profound connection to humanity, which was created in [God's image](/genesis/1-26 "God's image"). While they also possess other faces (lion, ox, eagle, as described in [Ezekiel 1:10](/ezekiel/1-10 "Ezekiel 1:10 - The Four Faces")), the human likeness may signify their capacity for understanding and their role in interacting with God's human creation, or it could be a subtle reflection of the divine attributes as they relate to human experience, making the transcendent more comprehensible.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezekiel 1:5 describes the "likeness of four living creatures" with an initial "likeness of a man" as part of a grand vision of God's transcendent glory and mobile throne, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the profound mystery of the incarnation of Jesus Christ. The "likeness of a man" in these heavenly beings serves as a prophetic hint and a symbolic foreshadowing of God's deep desire to bridge the infinite gap between the divine and the human. In Christ, this "likeness" is not merely symbolic or visionary, but becomes a tangible, historical reality. The eternal Son of God, who existed in the very [form of God](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6 - Christ's Divine Nature") and shared His essence, willingly [emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Incarnation"). Jesus is the ultimate and perfect manifestation of God's glory in human flesh, the [image of the invisible God](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God"), through whom God fully and finally reveals Himself to humanity. Unlike the mediated and symbolic "likeness" seen by Ezekiel, in Christ, God truly became man, dwelling among us, as [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") powerfully declares, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." Thus, the initial hint of humanity in the heavenly realm of Ezekiel finds its perfect, complete, and salvific realization in the person of Jesus, who is both fully God and fully man, the singular mediator between God and humanity ([1 Timothy 2:5](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator")).

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

Revelation 4:6

And before the throne [there was] a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, [were] four beasts full of eyes before and behind.

Revelation 4:8

¶ And the four beasts had each of them six wings about [him]; and [they were] full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.

Ezekiel 1:26

¶ 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.

Revelation 6:6

And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and [see] thou hurt not the oil and the wine.