Ezekiel 10:5

KJV

And the sound of the cherubims' wings was heard [even] to the outer court, as the voice of the Almighty God when he speaketh.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the sound {H6963} of the cherubims {H3742}' wings {H3671} was heard {H8085} even to the outer {H2435} court {H2691}, as the voice {H6963} of the Almighty {H7706} God {H410} when he speaketh {H1696}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The sound of the wings of the k'ruvim could be heard even in the outer courtyard sounding like the voice of God, Shaddai, when he speaks.

Berean Standard Bible

The sound of the wings of the cherubim could be heard as far as the outer court, like the voice of God Almighty when He speaks.

American Standard Version

And the sound of the wings of the cherubim was heard even to the outer court, as the voice of God Almighty when he speaketh.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 10:5 powerfully depicts the overwhelming sound produced by the cherubim's wings, a reverberation so immense it reached the outer court of the Temple, likened in its authority and impact to the very voice of Almighty God when He speaks. This vivid auditory manifestation underscores the gravity and public nature of God's glory departing from the Jerusalem Temple, a solemn act of divine judgment against the rampant idolatry and moral corruption of His people, signaling the imminent destruction of the city and the cessation of His manifest presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 10:5 is situated within a profound and somber vision granted to the prophet Ezekiel, detailing the departure of God's glory from the Jerusalem Temple (Ezekiel 8-11). This chapter specifically describes the cherubim, celestial beings introduced in Ezekiel's initial vision ([Ezekiel 1](/ezekiel/1 "Ezekiel 1 - Vision of God's Chariot-Throne")), as they facilitate the movement of God's chariot-throne. Following the detailed account of the abominations within the Temple in [Ezekiel 8](/ezekiel/8 "Ezekiel 8 - Abominations in the Temple") and the subsequent judgment upon the city in [Ezekiel 9](/ezekiel/9 "Ezekiel 9 - Judgment on Jerusalem"), chapter 10 depicts the Shekinah glory of God moving from the inner sanctuary to the threshold of the Temple, and then to the East Gate. Verse 5 specifically captures the audible, earth-shaking manifestation of this divine withdrawal, emphasizing its scale and impact as it reaches even the outer precincts of the sacred complex, making the departure a public and undeniable event.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Ezekiel received these visions during the Babylonian exile, a period of immense national trauma for Judah. Jerusalem, the spiritual and political heart of the nation, was under siege and would soon face catastrophic destruction (586 BCE). The Temple was not merely a building but the perceived dwelling place of Yahweh, symbolizing His covenant presence among His people. The widespread idolatry and moral decay described in [Ezekiel 8](/ezekiel/8 "Ezekiel 8 - Abominations in the Temple") represented a profound betrayal of this covenant. In this context, the departure of God's glory was not an abstract theological concept but a terrifying, tangible sign of divine abandonment and impending doom, a direct consequence of the people's unfaithfulness. The cherubim, often depicted guarding sacred spaces and associated with God's throne (e.g., [Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding Eden") and the Ark of the Covenant in [Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18-22 "Exodus 25:18-22 - Cherubim on the Ark")), here serve as instruments of God's mobile sovereignty, executing His will.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Ezekiel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, demonstrating that God's actions are deliberate, powerful, and righteous, even His withdrawal. The sound itself is an act of judgment, a public warning to those who have defiled His sanctuary and broken His covenant. Secondly, it underscores the **Holiness of God**, revealing that His presence cannot tolerate persistent defilement and rebellion. The movement of the cherubim and the accompanying sound are a testament to God's absolute purity and His necessary separation from sin. Thirdly, the verse vividly illustrates the **Consequences of Sin**, showing that idolatry and unfaithfulness lead to the loss of God's manifest presence and protection, culminating in national catastrophe. Finally, the dramatic auditory experience serves as a **Theophany**, a powerful and awe-inspiring manifestation of God's presence and power, asserting His ultimate authority even as He departs. This vision profoundly contrasts with the initial filling of the Temple with God's glory, as seen in [1 Kings 8:10-11](/1_kings/8-10-11 "1 Kings 8:10-11 - God's Glory Fills Solomon's Temple").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sound (Hebrew, _qôwl'_):** This word signifies not merely an audible noise, but often carries the connotation of a powerful, authoritative voice or proclamation. In this context, it emphasizes the overwhelming, unmistakable nature of the cherubim's movement, equating it with a divine utterance. It suggests that the sound itself is a form of divine communication, conveying God's presence and action, and demanding attention due to its sheer force and origin.
* **Almighty (Hebrew, _Shadday'_):** This title, often translated as "Almighty," emphasizes God's omnipotence, self-sufficiency, and absolute power to fulfill His purposes. When the sound of the wings is compared to the "voice of the Almighty God," it imbues the sound with ultimate authority, irresistible power, and divine origin, leaving no doubt as to the source and significance of the event. It speaks to God's unchallengeable might even in His act of withdrawal.
* **Speaketh (Hebrew, _dâbar'_):** This primitive root means "to speak," but also "to arrange," "command," or "declare." When God "speaks," it implies creation, command, and the unfolding of His sovereign will. The comparison here suggests that the sound of the cherubim's wings carries the same weight, authority, and transformative power as God's own spoken word, signifying a momentous divine decree being enacted—namely, the judgment and departure of His glory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the sound of the cherubims' wings was heard":** This clause establishes the central sensory detail of the verse—an immense, audible manifestation. It highlights that the movement of these divine beings, carrying God's glory, was not silent or secret but produced a powerful, discernible noise, a direct indication of profound divine activity and the solemnity of the moment.
* **"[even] to the outer court":** This phrase specifies the expansive reach of the sound. The "outer court" was the most accessible part of the Temple complex, where ordinary Israelites could gather and observe. The fact that the sound penetrated this far signifies that God's departure was not merely an internal, priestly matter, but a public, undeniable event for all to witness, emphasizing the widespread impact of His judgment and the transparency of His actions.
* **"as the voice of the Almighty God when he speaketh":** This powerful simile reveals the nature and authority of the sound. It's not just a loud noise; it's a sound imbued with the very power, majesty, and command of God's own voice. This comparison elevates the sound to the level of a divine utterance, indicating that the event it accompanies is a direct, authoritative act of God, carrying the weight of His sovereign will and righteous judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 10:5 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological message. The most prominent is **Simile**, explicitly stating that the sound of the cherubim's wings was "as the voice of the Almighty God when he speaketh." This comparison elevates the auditory experience beyond mere noise, imbuing it with divine authority, power, and significance, suggesting that the sound itself is a form of divine communication, a pronouncement of judgment. This also borders on **Hyperbole**, as the sound is described in such overwhelming terms that it transcends normal human experience, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the divine presence and its actions. Furthermore, the entire scene functions as a **Theophany**, a visible and audible manifestation of God's presence and power. The sound is not just an effect of the cherubim's movement, but an integral part of God's self-revelation in judgment. Finally, the **Symbolism** of the cherubim themselves, as guardians of God's holiness and bearers of His throne, combined with the sound reaching the "outer court," underscores the public and undeniable nature of God's solemn withdrawal from a defiled sanctuary.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 10:5 serves as a potent reminder of God's active involvement in human history and the profound consequences of sin. The departure of God's glory, heralded by such an overwhelming sound, underscores the absolute holiness of God and His inability to dwell amidst persistent defilement and idolatry. This event is not an arbitrary act but a deliberate, weighty judgment against a rebellious people. It teaches that God's presence, though gracious, is not unconditional in the face of flagrant disobedience. The sound reaching the outer court signifies that this divine withdrawal was not a secret, but a public declaration of God's righteous indignation, serving as a warning to all who witnessed or heard of it. It compels us to consider the seriousness of our own sin and the critical importance of reverence and holiness in our approach to God, recognizing that His manifest presence can be grieved and withdrawn.

* [Psalm 29:3-5](/psalms/29-3-5 "The Majesty of the Lord's Voice")
* [1 Kings 8:10-11](/1_kings/8-10-11 "The Glory of the Lord Fills the Temple")
* [Hosea 5:6](/hosea/5-6 "Seeking the Lord, But He Has Withdrawn")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The thunderous sound of the cherubim's wings, likened to the voice of God, should evoke a profound sense of awe and reverence within us. It reminds us that God is not a passive observer but an active, powerful, and holy being whose presence and actions have tangible, far-reaching consequences. This verse challenges us to consider the "sounds" of God's activity in our own lives and in the world around us. Are we attentive to His voice, whether spoken through Scripture, conscience, or circumstances? Do we recognize the gravity of sin and its potential to grieve the Holy Spirit, leading to a perceived withdrawal of God's manifest presence or blessing in our lives or communities? Just as the people of Judah faced the devastating consequences of their unholiness, we too are called to walk in purity and obedience, ensuring that our lives are a welcoming dwelling place for God's Spirit, rather than a cause for His departure. This passage serves as a stark warning and a call to repentance, urging us to prioritize holiness and genuine worship above all else.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the immense sound described in Ezekiel 10:5 shape your understanding of God's power, majesty, and holiness?**
* **What "sounds" or signs of God's presence or absence do you perceive in your own life or community, and how do you respond to them?**
* **In what ways might we, individually or corporately, be contributing to a "withdrawal" of God's manifest presence through unholiness or indifference, and what steps can we take to cultivate a dwelling place for Him?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the sound reaching the "outer court"?**

Answer: The "outer court" was the most public and accessible area of the Temple, where ordinary Israelites gathered for worship and everyday activities. The sound of the cherubim's wings reaching this far signifies that God's departure was not a hidden or internal event, confined to the inner sanctuary or known only to the priests, but a public and undeniable reality. It served as a clear, audible warning and a powerful sign of judgment for all the people, demonstrating the widespread impact of their sin and the solemnity of God's withdrawal from His defiled sanctuary. It underscored the fact that God's actions were transparent and directed toward the entire nation, leaving no one unaware of the divine displeasure.

**Why are the cherubim central to this vision of God's movement?**

Answer: The cherubim are consistently depicted in Scripture as guardians of God's holiness and associated with His divine throne and presence, such as guarding the Garden of Eden after the fall ([Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Cherubim Guarding the Way to the Tree of Life")) and adorning the Ark of the Covenant ([Exodus 25:18-22](/exodus/25-18-22 "Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant")). In Ezekiel's vision, they are portrayed as the bearers of God's mobile chariot-throne ([Ezekiel 1:4-28](/ezekiel/1-4-28 "Vision of God's Chariot-Throne and the Cherubim")), symbolizing His sovereignty and the fact that His presence is not static or confined to a single location. Their involvement in the departure of God's glory from the Temple emphasizes that this was a divinely orchestrated, purposeful act, carried out by the very beings closest to God's throne, signifying the profound and deliberate nature of His judgment and His unhindered ability to move.

**How does the "voice of the Almighty God" relate to the cherubims' wings?**

Answer: The comparison "as the voice of the Almighty God when he speaketh" is a powerful simile that elevates the sound of the cherubim's wings beyond mere noise. It implies that the sound carries the same authority, power, and significance as God's own spoken word. When God speaks, His word is creative, authoritative, and brings about His will (e.g., [Genesis 1:3](/genesis/1-3 "God Speaks Light into Being")). By likening the sound of the wings to God's voice, Ezekiel conveys that this auditory manifestation is not just a byproduct of movement, but an active, divine declaration—a powerful, unmistakable sign that God is indeed acting, judging, and departing. It underscores the gravity and divine origin of the event, making the sound itself a form of divine communication and a solemn pronouncement of judgment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel's vision of God's glory departing the Temple due to human sin finds its ultimate and glorious reversal in the person of Jesus Christ. While the cherubim's wings heralded a sound of divine withdrawal from a defiled sanctuary, the incarnation of Christ signifies God's ultimate dwelling among humanity. As [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh") proclaims, "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." Jesus Himself became the true Temple, the ultimate locus of God's presence, as He declared in [John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "Jesus Predicts the Temple's Destruction and His Resurrection"), speaking of the temple of His body. His sacrificial death on the cross removed the barrier of sin that separated humanity from God, making it possible for God's glory to not merely visit, but to indwell believers through the Holy Spirit. No longer is God's presence confined to a physical structure, subject to departure due to human sin, but through Christ, believers become the very temple of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "You Are God's Temple") and [1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19-20 "Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")). The "voice of the Almighty God" that spoke judgment in Ezekiel's day now speaks grace and redemption through His Son, Jesus, who is the final and full revelation of God ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "God Has Spoken Through His Son")). Thus, in Christ, God's glory does not depart; it abides, transforming and indwelling His people, ensuring an eternal and unbreakable covenant presence.

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 1:24

And when they went, I heard the noise of their wings, like the noise of great waters, as the voice of the Almighty, the voice of speech, as the noise of an host: when they stood, they let down their wings.

Job 40:9

Hast thou an arm like God? or canst thou thunder with a voice like him?

Exodus 19:19

And when the voice of the trumpet sounded long, and waxed louder and louder, Moses spake, and God answered him by a voice.

2 Chronicles 4:9

Furthermore he made the court of the priests, and the great court, and doors for the court, and overlaid the doors of them with brass.

1 Kings 7:9

All these [were of] costly stones, according to the measures of hewed stones, sawed with saws, within and without, even from the foundation unto the coping, and [so] on the outside toward the great court.

Job 37:2

Hear attentively the noise of his voice, and the sound [that] goeth out of his mouth.

Job 37:5

God thundereth marvellously with his voice; great things doeth he, which we cannot comprehend.