When they stood, [these] stood; and when they were lifted up, [these] lifted up themselves [also]: for the spirit of the living creature [was] in them.
When they stood {H5975}, these stood {H5975}; and when they were lifted up {H7311}, these lifted up {H7426} themselves also: for the spirit {H7307} of the living creature {H2416} was in them.
When [the k'ruvim] stood still, [the wheels] stood still; and when the former rose, the latter rose with them; because the spirit of the living creatures was in them.
When the cherubim stood still, the wheels also stood still, and when they ascended, the wheels ascended with them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.
When they stood, these stood; and when they mounted up, these mounted up with them: for the spirit of the living creature was in them.
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Ezekiel 1:20
Whithersoever the spirit was to go, they went, thither [was their] spirit to go; and the wheels were lifted up over against them: for the spirit of the living creature [was] in the wheels. -
Ezekiel 1:21
When those went, [these] went; and when those stood, [these] stood; and when those were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up over against them: for the spirit of the living creature [was] in the wheels. -
Romans 8:2
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. -
Ezekiel 1:12
And they went every one straight forward: whither the spirit was to go, they went; [and] they turned not when they went. -
Genesis 2:7
And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. -
Revelation 11:11
And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.
Ezekiel 10:17 (KJV) continues the prophet Ezekiel's profound vision of God's glory, specifically detailing the intricate relationship and synchronized movement between the cherubim (living creatures) and the wheels (often called 'ofen' or 'galgal' in Hebrew) that accompanied them.
Context
This verse is part of Ezekiel's second major vision of God's glory, occurring in the Temple at Jerusalem before its destruction. It closely mirrors and expands upon the initial vision described in Ezekiel chapter 1, where the prophet first encountered the divine chariot-throne. In both visions, the cherubim and wheels are integral components of God's mobile, celestial throne, symbolizing His omnipresence and sovereign control. Chapter 10 specifically describes the departure of the glory of the Lord from the Temple, signaling impending judgment upon Jerusalem.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word translated as "spirit" is ruach (רוּחַ). This versatile word can mean breath, wind, or spirit. In this context, it signifies the animating, life-giving, and directive force. It's the divine essence or power that provides the impetus for the cherubim and, by extension, the wheels. It's not just a physical force but an intelligent, purposeful energy originating from God Himself, ensuring the precise execution of His will.
Practical Application
Ezekiel's vision, particularly this verse, offers profound insights for believers today. It reminds us of God's ultimate sovereignty and His meticulous control over all things, even in times of judgment or uncertainty. Just as the cherubim and wheels moved in perfect unity under the guidance of the divine spirit, as also described in Ezekiel 1:20, so too are believers called to live in harmony with God's Spirit, allowing Him to direct our paths and actions. This vision encourages trust in God's perfect plan and reminds us that His presence is not limited to specific places but is active and dynamic in the world, always working according to His divine purpose.