Ezekiel 28:14

KJV

Thou [art] the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee [so]: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou art the anointed {H4473} cherub {H3742} that covereth {H5526}; and I have set {H5414} thee so: thou wast upon the holy {H6944} mountain {H2022} of God {H430}; thou hast walked up and down {H1980} in the midst {H8432} of the stones {H68} of fire {H784}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You were a keruv, protecting a large region; I placed you on God's holy mountain. You walked back and forth among stones of fire.

Berean Standard Bible

You were anointed as a guardian cherub, for I had ordained you. You were on the holy mountain of God; you walked among the fiery stones.

American Standard Version

Thou wast the anointed cherub that covereth: and I set thee, so that thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 28:14 is a pivotal verse within a prophetic lament against the King of Tyre, yet its language transcends human description, leading many scholars to interpret it as a profound depiction of Satan's original, pre-fall state. It portrays a creature of unparalleled glory, divinely appointed to a position of immense privilege and proximity to God's holy presence, serving as a powerful prelude to the subsequent account of his rebellion and expulsion from this exalted status.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a divine oracle against the city of Tyre and its king, found in [Ezekiel 28](/ezekiel/28 "Ezekiel 28 - Prophecy Against Tyre"). The initial verses of the chapter directly address the King of Tyre, condemning his hubris and self-proclaimed divinity, as seen in [Ezekiel 28:2](/ezekiel/28-2 "Ezekiel 28:2 - The King of Tyre's Pride"). However, beginning around [Ezekiel 28:12](/ezekiel/28-12 "Ezekiel 28:12 - Lament over the King of Tyre"), the language dramatically shifts from that applicable to a human monarch to a description of an angelic, preternatural being. This shift suggests a deeper theological layer, where the earthly king's pride mirrors or is influenced by a primeval rebellion in the spiritual realm, making the lament a dual prophecy against both the human ruler and the spiritual power behind him. The subsequent verses, particularly [Ezekiel 28:15-19](/ezekiel/28-15 "Ezekiel 28:15-19 - The Fall of the Anointed Cherub"), detail the iniquity found in this glorious being and his subsequent expulsion, providing the narrative arc of his fall.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Tyre was a powerful Phoenician city-state, renowned for its maritime trade, immense wealth, and sophisticated culture. Its strategic location and commercial prowess fostered a spirit of self-sufficiency and arrogance among its rulers, leading them to believe their prosperity was due to their own wisdom and might, rather than divine favor. This hubris aligns with a common theme in ancient Near Eastern prophecy, where powerful nations and their leaders are condemned for claiming divine attributes or challenging God's sovereignty. The imagery of precious stones, divine mountains, and cherubim was familiar in ancient cosmologies, often associated with temples, palaces, and the dwelling places of deities, signifying ultimate power, beauty, and sacredness. The description of the "holy mountain of God" and "stones of fire" would evoke concepts of divine presence and glory, accessible only to the most privileged beings.
* **Key Themes:** Ezekiel 28:14 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Ezekiel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Original Perfection and Exaltation**, portraying a created being of unparalleled beauty and privilege, positioned intimately near God's presence. Secondly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Appointment**, as the cherub's exalted status is explicitly stated as divinely "set," emphasizing that all authority and glory originate from God, not from the creature itself. This sets the stage for the theme of **Pride and Rebellion**, as the subsequent verses reveal how this perfect being's iniquity led to his downfall, serving as a profound illustration of the destructive nature of self-exaltation. Finally, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **The Origin of Evil**, providing a foundational biblical perspective on how evil entered the cosmos through the rebellion of a high-ranking angelic being, a concept echoed in other scriptures that speak of the adversary's fall from his original glory, as seen in [Isaiah 14:12-15](/isaiah/14-12 "Isaiah 14:12-15 - The Fall of Lucifer").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Anointed (Hebrew, _mimshach'_):** From the root meaning "to expand" or "outspread," this term implies a special consecration or appointment, often associated with a covering or guardian role, possibly with outstretched wings. It signifies a unique, divinely ordained purpose and a position of immense authority and privilege, distinguishing this cherub from others.
* **Cherub (Hebrew, _kᵉrûwb'_):** This refers to a class of powerful, winged angelic beings frequently depicted in biblical texts as guardians of sacred spaces or the immediate presence of God. Examples include the cherubim guarding the [Garden of Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding the Way to the Tree of Life") and those adorning the [Ark of the Covenant](/exodus/25-20 "Exodus 25:20 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant"). Their presence in this verse underscores the extremely high rank and proximity to the divine enjoyed by the being described.
* **Walked up and down (Hebrew, _hâlak'_):** This primitive root means "to walk" in a wide variety of applications, both literal and figurative. In this context, it conveys not merely physical movement but suggests free access, authority, and perhaps a patrolling or dwelling presence within the divine realm. It implies an intimate familiarity and unhindered movement within the most sacred spaces of God's presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou [art] the anointed cherub that covereth":** This clause identifies the subject as a specially consecrated, high-ranking angelic being. The term "anointed" denotes a divine commissioning for a specific, exalted purpose, while "cherub" places him among the most powerful and majestic of God's created beings. The phrase "that covereth" suggests a role of protection, overshadowing, or guarding, possibly referring to the cherub's wings covering the divine throne or presence, signifying his close proximity and sacred duty.
* **"and I have set thee [so]":** This declarative statement emphasizes the divine origin of the cherub's exalted status. His position, power, and privilege were not self-achieved but were sovereignly bestowed by God. This highlights God's absolute authority over all creation, even the most magnificent angelic beings, and underscores that the cherub's glory was a gift, not an inherent right.
* **"thou wast upon the holy mountain of God":** This imagery symbolizes the dwelling place of God, a realm of ultimate holiness, purity, and divine authority. It signifies an intimate, privileged presence in God's immediate vicinity, akin to being in heaven itself or on a sacred cosmic mountain where God's glory resides. This location speaks to the cherub's unparalleled access to the divine.
* **"thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire":** This vivid description further illustrates the cherub's intimate connection to divine glory. The "stones of fire" evoke images of brilliant, radiant precious stones, perhaps reminiscent of the high priest's breastplate or the fiery splendor surrounding God's throne. This imagery conveys perfect beauty, purity, and the dazzling light of God's presence. The act of "walking up and down" within them suggests unhindered access, familiarity, and perhaps a role within this glorious, fiery realm, indicating a state of perfect communion and splendor.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 28:14 is rich with **Symbolism**, using powerful imagery to convey profound theological truths. The "anointed cherub" is symbolic of a high-ranking angelic being, often interpreted as Satan in his original, unfallen state, representing ultimate created perfection and proximity to God. The "holy mountain of God" **symbolizes** God's sacred dwelling place, a realm of divine presence, authority, and purity, rather than a literal geographical location. Similarly, the "stones of fire" **symbolize** the radiant glory, purity, and splendor of God's immediate presence, evoking images of dazzling jewels and divine light. The passage also employs **Hyperbole** in its description of the cherub's perfection and glorious surroundings, emphasizing the magnitude of his original state to highlight the catastrophic nature of his subsequent fall. This **personification** (or rather, the application of human-like pride to an angelic being, initially framed as the King of Tyre) serves to make the abstract concept of spiritual rebellion relatable and impactful.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 28:14 stands as a cornerstone in understanding the biblical narrative of the origin of evil and the nature of pride. It presents a being of unparalleled beauty, wisdom, and privilege, created perfect and positioned in intimate proximity to God's glory. This initial perfection serves as a stark contrast to the subsequent "iniquity" found within him, underscoring that evil did not originate with God but through the willful rebellion of a creature endowed with immense freedom and glory. The verse highlights that even the most exalted created being is ultimately subservient to God's sovereignty and that pride—the desire to usurp God's place or elevate oneself—is the foundational sin that leads to catastrophic downfall. This account provides crucial insight into the spiritual warfare that permeates creation, revealing the adversary's original state and the depth of his fall.

* [Isaiah 14:12-15](/isaiah/14-12 "Isaiah 14:12-15 - The Fall of Lucifer from Heaven")
* [Luke 10:18](/luke/10-18 "Luke 10:18 - Jesus Saw Satan Fall Like Lightning")
* [Revelation 12:7-9](/revelation/12-7 "Revelation 12:7-9 - War in Heaven and Satan's Expulsion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 28:14, though describing a cosmic event, offers profound practical lessons for our lives. It serves as a powerful warning against the insidious nature of pride, demonstrating that even a being of unparalleled perfection and privilege could fall from the highest heights due to self-exaltation. This reminds us that no amount of giftedness, position, or spiritual experience makes us immune to the temptation of pride. Our talents and achievements are always gifts from God, and humility is the only proper response. Furthermore, understanding the original glory and subsequent fall of this "anointed cherub" sheds light on the reality of spiritual warfare. It reminds us that our struggles are not merely against human adversaries but against spiritual forces of evil, as articulated in [Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Our Struggle Against Spiritual Forces"). This calls us to vigilance, prayer, and reliance on God's strength, recognizing that the battle against evil is ultimately God's, and His sovereignty prevails over all, even fallen angelic powers. The verse also highlights the contrast between God's perfect creation and the devastating consequences of rebellion, urging us to choose obedience and worship over self-will and defiance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might pride subtly manifest, even when you believe you are serving God?**
* **How does understanding the original glory and fall of this cherub deepen your awareness of spiritual warfare in the world today?**
* **What does God's sovereignty over even the most powerful created beings teach you about trusting His plan and judgment?**
* **How can you cultivate a spirit of humility and gratitude, recognizing that all your blessings and abilities come from God?**

### FAQ
**Is Ezekiel 28:14 literally about the King of Tyre?**

Answer: While the prophecy in [Ezekiel 28](/ezekiel/28 "Ezekiel 28 - Prophecy Against Tyre") is ostensibly directed at the earthly King of Tyre, the language used in verses like [Ezekiel 28:12-19](/ezekiel/28-12 "Ezekiel 28:12-19 - The Lament Over the King of Tyre") transcends the capabilities and characteristics of any human monarch. Descriptions such as being "the anointed cherub," "upon the holy mountain of God," and walking "in the midst of the stones of fire" point to a celestial, angelic being. Therefore, many biblical scholars interpret this passage as a veiled, dual prophecy: it addresses the pride of the King of Tyre, but simultaneously reveals the original state and fall of Satan, the spiritual power behind the earthly king's arrogance.

**What does "anointed cherub that covereth" mean?**

Answer: The phrase "anointed cherub" (Hebrew: *mimshach kᵉrûwb*) refers to a highly exalted, consecrated angelic being. "Anointed" signifies a special divine appointment or consecration for a unique purpose, indicating a position of immense privilege and authority. "Cherub" identifies the being as a member of a class of powerful, winged angels often associated with guarding sacred spaces or God's immediate presence, such as those guarding the [Garden of Eden](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guarding the Way to the Tree of Life") or overshadowing the [Ark of the Covenant](/exodus/25-20 "Exodus 25:20 - Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant"). The term "that covereth" (Hebrew: *çâkak*) suggests a role of overshadowing, protecting, or guarding, possibly referring to the cherub's wings spreading out to cover God's throne or presence, signifying his intimate proximity and sacred duty.

**What are the "stones of fire" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "stones of fire" (Hebrew: *ʼeben ʼêsh*) are symbolic imagery representing the dazzling glory, purity, and splendor of God's immediate presence. This imagery evokes precious, radiant jewels, perhaps reminiscent of the stones on the high priest's breastplate described in [Exodus 28:15-20](/exodus/28-15 "Exodus 28:15-20 - The Breastplate of Judgment"), or the fiery, brilliant essence of God's own being. Walking "in the midst" of these stones suggests an intimate, unhindered access and dwelling within the very heart of divine glory and light, emphasizing the cherub's original perfection and proximity to God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 28:14, though describing the pristine state of a fallen angelic being, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "anointed cherub" was created perfect, held a position of immense glory, and walked in the very presence of God, yet fell due to pride and a desire for self-exaltation. In stark contrast, Jesus Christ, though eternally God and "being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")). Where the cherub sought to ascend, Christ descended. He is the true "anointed one" (Messiah), not by creation or appointment, but by eternal divine nature and divine mission. He perfectly reflects the "glory of God" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory")) and is the "image of the invisible God" ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of the Invisible God")), far surpassing any created glory. The cherub's fall introduced sin and death into the world, but Christ, through His obedient life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection, has "destroyed him who has the power of death, that is, the devil" ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Christ's Victory Over Death and the Devil")). He is the one who perfectly "covers" our sin through His atoning blood, establishing a new covenant where humanity can truly walk in the presence of God, not through inherent glory, but through His grace. Thus, the narrative of the fallen cherub's pride and expulsion ultimately magnifies the unparalleled humility, obedience, and redemptive triumph of Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfilled God's righteous will and secured eternal victory over the very being described in Ezekiel 28:14.

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

Isaiah 14:12

How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! [how] art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!

Isaiah 14:15

Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.

Exodus 30:26

And thou shalt anoint the tabernacle of the congregation therewith, and the ark of the testimony,

Exodus 40:9

And thou shalt take the anointing oil, and anoint the tabernacle, and all that [is] therein, and shalt hallow it, and all the vessels thereof: and it shall be holy.

Ezekiel 28:13

Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone [was] thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created.

Ezekiel 20:40

For in mine holy mountain, in the mountain of the height of Israel, saith the Lord GOD, there shall all the house of Israel, all of them in the land, serve me: there will I accept them, and there will I require your offerings, and the firstfruits of your oblations, with all your holy things.

Exodus 25:17

And thou shalt make a mercy seat [of] pure gold: two cubits and a half [shall be] the length thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof.