Ezekiel 10:19

KJV

And the cherubims lifted up their wings, and mounted up from the earth in my sight: when they went out, the wheels also [were] beside them, and [every one] stood at the door of the east gate of the LORD'S house; and the glory of the God of Israel [was] over them above.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the cherubims {H3742} lifted up {H5375} their wings {H3671}, and mounted up {H7426} from the earth {H776} in my sight {H5869}: when they went out {H3318}, the wheels {H212} also were beside {H5980} them, and every one stood {H5975} at the door {H6607} of the east {H6931} gate {H8179} of the LORD'S {H3068} house {H1004}; and the glory {H3519} of the God {H430} of Israel {H3478} was over them above {H4605}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The k'ruvim lifted their wings and rose off the earth - I was watching as they went off with the wheels next to them. They paused at the entrance to the east gate of ADONAI's house, with the glory of the God of Isra'el over them, from above.

Berean Standard Bible

As I watched, the cherubim lifted their wings and rose up from the ground, with the wheels beside them as they went. And they stopped at the entrance of the east gate of the house of the LORD, with the glory of the God of Israel above them.

American Standard Version

And the cherubim lifted up their wings, and mounted up from the earth in my sight when they went forth, and the wheels beside them: and they stood at the door of the east gate of Jehovah’s house; and the glory of the God of Israel was over them above.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 10:19 captures a profound and somber moment in the prophet's vision, depicting the cherubim, who bear the mobile throne of God, ascending from the earth and positioning themselves at the east gate of the Lord's house in Jerusalem. This orchestrated movement signifies the progressive and deliberate withdrawal of the visible glory of God (the *Shekinah*) from the Temple, an act of divine judgment in response to the pervasive idolatry and spiritual corruption within its sacred precincts. It powerfully underscores God's absolute sovereignty and His freedom from any physical structure, foreshadowing the impending destruction of the Temple and the subsequent exile of His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a deeply unsettling and pivotal section of Ezekiel's prophecy (chapters 8-11), which recounts the prophet's visionary journey to Jerusalem while he remains in Babylonian exile. Having previously witnessed the abominable idolatry practiced by the elders and the people within the very courts of the Temple ([Ezekiel 8](/ezekiel/8 "Ezekiel's Vision of Idolatry in the Temple")), and the subsequent divine judgment meted out upon the city, Ezekiel now observes the methodical and staged departure of God's glory. This withdrawal is not abrupt but progressive: from the cherubim to the threshold of the Temple ([Ezekiel 9:3](/ezekiel/9-3 "The Glory of the Lord Moves to the Temple Threshold")), then from the threshold back to the cherubim ([Ezekiel 10:4](/ezekiel/10-4 "The Glory of the Lord Rises from the Threshold")), and now, in this verse, the cherubim, bearing the glory, ascend and move to the east gate. This deliberate, step-by-step withdrawal amplifies the gravity of Israel's covenant unfaithfulness and the certainty of impending divine judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time of this vision, approximately 592 BC, Jerusalem was under the looming threat of Babylonian conquest, and many of its inhabitants, including Ezekiel, had already been deported to Babylon in an earlier wave of exile. The First Temple, constructed by King Solomon, stood as the spiritual and national epicenter of Israelite life, revered as the sacred dwelling place of Yahweh Himself. The concept of God's manifest glory (*Shekinah*) residing within the Temple was fundamental to their national identity and their covenant relationship with God. For this *Shekinah* glory to depart was an unthinkable catastrophe, symbolizing God's abandonment of His people and their most sacred space due to their persistent idolatry, syncretism, and profound moral decay. The "east gate" held particular significance, often associated with the entry of God's glory into the Temple (as prophesied for the future Temple in [Ezekiel 43:1-5](/ezekiel/43-1 "The Glory of the Lord Returns to the New Temple")) and serving as a prominent exit point from the Temple complex towards the Mount of Olives.
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 10:19 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes that permeate the prophet's book. Primarily, it underscores **The Departure of God's Glory**, offering a stark visual representation of divine judgment against a rebellious people. The *Shekinah* glory, which once filled the Tabernacle ([Exodus 40:34](/exodus/40-34 "The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle")) and Solomon's Temple ([1_kings/8-11](/1-kings/8-11 "The Glory of the Lord Fills Solomon's Temple")), is now actively withdrawing, signaling the end of an era of localized divine presence. Second, the verse highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Mobility**. The cherubim and their accompanying "wheels" (often understood as *Ophanim* or "living wheels" from [Ezekiel 1:15-21](/ezekiel/1-15 "Ezekiel's Vision of the Wheels")) form God's mobile throne-chariot, emphasizing that God is not confined to human-made structures or geographical locations. His presence is dynamic, transcendent, and can be withdrawn at His sovereign will. Finally, the movement to the east gate signifies **Judgment and Abandonment**, indicating that God is lifting His protective presence, leaving Jerusalem vulnerable to its enemies and destined for destruction, a theme that culminates in the glory's final departure over the Mount of Olives ([Ezekiel 11:23](/ezekiel/11-23 "The Glory of the Lord Departs from Jerusalem")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **cherubims (Hebrew, _kᵉrûwb'_):** As described in the provided Strong's data (H3742), a cherub is an "imaginary figure" or angelic being. In biblical theology, particularly in Ezekiel's visions, cherubim are powerful, winged, angelic guardians of sacred space (e.g., guarding the [Garden of Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Cherubim Guarding the Garden of Eden")) and are consistently depicted as the bearers of God's throne or chariot. Their movement in this verse directly signifies the movement of God's majestic and holy presence, underscoring His transcendence and the formidable nature of His divine retinue.
* **went out (Hebrew, _yâtsâʼ'_):** This primitive root (H3318) means "to go out" or "depart," encompassing a wide variety of applications, both literal and figurative. In the context of Ezekiel 10:19, it carries profound theological weight, denoting a deliberate and consequential departure. It is not a casual exit but a formal, visible withdrawal of God's presence from a place that has been defiled, emphasizing the finality and gravity of the judgment being enacted against the unfaithful people and their desecrated sanctuary.
* **glory (Hebrew, _kâbôwd'_):** Derived from a root meaning "weight," *kâbôwd* (H3519) figuratively refers to splendor, copiousness, honor, or majesty. Here, "the glory of the God of Israel" refers to the visible, manifest presence of Yahweh, often associated with a brilliant, overwhelming light or cloud, known as the *Shekinah*. Its movement is the central theological event of this passage, representing God's active disengagement from a covenant-breaking people and their defiled sanctuary, a direct consequence of their sin.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the cherubims lifted up their wings, and mounted up from the earth in my sight:"** Ezekiel, as the privileged eyewitness, describes the powerful, winged cherubim, which serve as the foundational support for God's mobile throne, initiating their ascent. This action signifies a momentous and visible departure, emphasizing the divine agency and deliberate nature of the unfolding events. The combined actions of "lifting up" and "mounting up" convey a sense of purposeful, majestic, and unstoppable movement.
* **"when they went out, the wheels also [were] beside them,"** As the cherubim ascend and move, the accompanying "wheels" (the *Ophanim* from Ezekiel's earlier vision in [Ezekiel 1](/ezekiel/1 "Ezekiel's Vision of the Chariot Throne")) are in perfect synchronicity and proximity beside them. These wheels, characterized by their immense size, numerous eyes, and ability to move in any direction without turning, represent the omnipresence, omniscience, and unhindered mobility of God's throne, reinforcing His absolute sovereignty and freedom from earthly constraints.
* **"and [every one] stood at the door of the east gate of the LORD'S house;"** The divine procession, having lifted from the inner sanctuary of the Temple, now pauses at the threshold of the east gate of the Temple complex. This is not the final departure from Jerusalem, but a significant intermediate step, positioning God's glory at a prominent exit point. The act of "standing" implies a deliberate halt, a moment of transition before the ultimate departure, allowing Ezekiel (and, through his testimony, Israel) to witness each solemn stage of the withdrawal.
* **"and the glory of the God of Israel [was] over them above."** The visible manifestation of God's presence, the *kâbôwd*, remains enthroned above the cherubim and wheels. This reiterates that the cherubim and their accompanying apparatus are not merely creatures but are the bearers of the divine presence itself. The glory's position "over them above" (H4605, _maʻal_, meaning "the upper part, upward, above, overhead") underscores its transcendence, majesty, and the fact that it is the ultimate source of power and authority in this solemn procession of judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 10:19 is rich in **Imagery**, painting a vivid and dynamic picture of divine power and movement. The description of the cherubim lifting their wings and the wheels moving in perfect concert creates an awe-inspiring and almost terrifying scene, emphasizing the supernatural nature of God's presence and His mobile throne. **Symbolism** is paramount throughout the verse: the cherubim symbolize divine guardianship and the bearers of God's throne; the wheels symbolize God's omnipresence, omniscience, and unhindered sovereignty; "the glory of the God of Israel" symbolizes His manifest presence, majesty, and holiness; and the "east gate of the LORD'S house" symbolizes a crucial point of transition and impending abandonment. The entire scene is imbued with **Dramatic Irony**, as the very presence that once consecrated the Temple and guaranteed Israel's security is now actively departing due to the profound unfaithfulness of the very people who were meant to guard its sanctity. The staged, progressive nature of the departure also serves as powerful **Foreshadowing**, signaling the imminent destruction of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem, which would soon be left vulnerable and unprotected without God's manifest presence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 10:19 profoundly illustrates the theological principle that God's presence is not automatically guaranteed by physical structures or religious rituals, but is contingent upon the holiness and faithfulness of His people. The departure of the *Shekinah* glory from the Temple is a severe theological statement, demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to His own holiness and His righteous judgment against sin. It reveals that while God graciously chooses to manifest His presence in specific ways, He is ultimately transcendent and sovereign, not confined or manipulated by human constructs. This event serves as a powerful warning against spiritual complacency, idolatry, and the dangerous presumption that God's favor is unconditional regardless of human conduct. It underscores that true worship involves a heart devoted to God, marked by obedience and purity, not merely adherence to outward forms or reliance on a physical sanctuary.

* [Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Cherubim Guarding the Garden of Eden")
* [Exodus 40:34](/exodus/40-34 "The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle")
* [1 Kings 8:11](/1-kings/8-11 "The Glory of the Lord Fills Solomon's Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 10:19 is a sobering and vital reminder that God's presence, though gracious and merciful, is also profoundly holy and can be grieved or even withdrawn in the face of persistent sin, rebellion, and spiritual apathy. For believers today, while we live under the New Covenant where the Holy Spirit indwells us, the principle of holiness remains paramount. Our bodies are now understood as temples of the Holy Spirit ([1_corinthians/6-19](/1-corinthians/6-19 "Believers as Temples of the Holy Spirit")), and we are called to live lives that honor God, lest we grieve the Spirit ([Ephesians 4:30](/ephesians/4-30 "Do Not Grieve the Holy Spirit")). This passage challenges us to engage in honest self-examination and to critically assess our own lives and our faith communities: are we harboring "abominations"—whether explicit idolatry, moral compromise, or spiritual indifference—that diminish God's manifest presence among us? Are we prioritizing outward religious forms, traditions, or even comfortable routines over inward purity, genuine devotion, and radical obedience to Christ? The mobility of God's glory, as depicted by the cherubim and wheels, also reminds us that God is not confined to church buildings, specific rituals, or human-made programs; He is sovereign and active, moving where His Spirit wills. Our focus, therefore, should be on cultivating a personal and corporate environment of holiness, sincere worship, and humble obedience, thereby inviting and cherishing the dynamic, transformative presence of God in our midst.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "abominations" or areas of unholiness in my own life or within my Christian community might be grieving the Holy Spirit or hindering the manifest presence of God?**
* **How does understanding God's sovereignty and mobility, as powerfully depicted by the cherubim and wheels, impact my view of His presence and activity in the world today?**
* **In what specific ways might I be relying on outward religious forms, traditions, or even past experiences rather than cultivating genuine, heartfelt obedience and a pursuit of present holiness?**

### FAQ
**What are the 'cherubims' and 'wheels' mentioned in this vision?**

Answer: The "cherubims" (Hebrew: *kᵉrûwb*, H3742) are powerful, winged angelic beings, often depicted in Scripture as guardians of sacred space (e.g., guarding the [Garden of Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Cherubim Guarding the Garden of Eden")) and, most notably in Ezekiel's visions, as the bearers of God's divine throne or chariot. They symbolize God's majesty, holiness, and the formidable nature of His presence. The "wheels" (Hebrew: *ʼôwphân*, H212) are an integral part of this mobile throne, first described in detail in [Ezekiel 1:15-21](/ezekiel/1-15 "Ezekiel's Vision of the Wheels"). Often referred to as *Ophanim* in Jewish tradition, they are characterized by their immense size, numerous eyes, and remarkable ability to move in any direction without turning. Together, the cherubim and wheels represent the dynamic, omnipresent, omniscient, and sovereign nature of God's throne, emphasizing His unhindered mobility and absolute control over all creation.

**Why is the 'east gate' significant in this context?**

Answer: The "east gate" of the Temple complex held profound symbolic and practical meaning. It was a prominent entrance and exit point, particularly facing the Mount of Olives. In Ezekiel's vision, the glory of the Lord had previously moved from the inner sanctuary to the threshold of the Temple ([Ezekiel 9:3](/ezekiel/9-3 "The Glory of the Lord Moves to the Temple Threshold")), then to the cherubim ([Ezekiel 10:4](/ezekiel/10-4 "The Glory of the Lord Rises from the Threshold")), and now pauses at the east gate. This is a crucial intermediate step in the glory's progressive departure from the Temple and, ultimately, from Jerusalem itself. It signifies that God's protective and sanctifying presence is actively withdrawing, leaving the city vulnerable to destruction. The east gate is also significant because, in a later vision of restoration, Ezekiel prophesies the triumphant return of God's glory to the new Temple through this very gate ([Ezekiel 43:1-5](/ezekiel/43-1 "The Glory of the Lord Returns to the New Temple")), offering a powerful message of future hope and divine faithfulness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The solemn departure of God's glory from the Temple in Ezekiel 10:19 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament Temple, with its physical structure, localized presence, and elaborate rituals, was always a shadow, a temporary dwelling place, pointing to a greater reality to come. Jesus Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking not of the stone edifice, but profoundly of the temple of His own body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "Jesus Predicts the Destruction and Resurrection of the Temple")). In the Incarnation, the very glory of God, which once dwelt in a building made with human hands, 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" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us")). The physical departure of God's glory from the Temple in Ezekiel foreshadows the obsolescence of that old covenant system. Through Christ's sacrificial death on the cross and His glorious resurrection, He, as the great High Priest, opened a new and living way into the very presence of God, making access available to all who believe, not just a select few in a physical temple ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19 "Access to God Through Christ's Blood")). Furthermore, under the New Covenant, the Holy Spirit indwells every believer, making each one a "temple of the Holy Spirit" ([1_corinthians/6-19](/1-corinthians/6-19 "Believers as Temples of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, the glory of God now resides not in a building, but dynamically and universally in His redeemed people, the Church, who collectively form the spiritual dwelling place of God on earth ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21 "The Church as a Holy Temple in the Lord")). Ezekiel's vision of a departing glory, therefore, profoundly foreshadows the end of an era marked by a localized and conditional divine presence, ushering in the era of Christ, where God's glory is universally accessible and perpetually present in His people through the indwelling Spirit.

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 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.

Ezekiel 1:28

As the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, so [was] the appearance of the brightness round about. This [was] the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I saw [it], I fell upon my face, and I heard a voice of one that spake.

Ezekiel 11:22

¶ Then did the cherubims lift up their wings, and the wheels beside them; and the glory of the God of Israel [was] over them above.

Ezekiel 11:23

And the glory of the LORD went up from the midst of the city, and stood upon the mountain which [is] on the east side of the city.

Ezekiel 11:1

¶ Moreover the spirit lifted me up, and brought me unto the east gate of the LORD'S house, which looketh eastward: and behold at the door of the gate five and twenty men; among whom I saw Jaazaniah the son of Azur, and Pelatiah the son of Benaiah, princes of the people.

Ezekiel 1:17

When they went, they went upon their four sides: [and] they turned not when they went.

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.