Hebrews 9:5

KJV

And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} over {G5231} it {G846} the cherubims {G5502} of glory {G1391} shadowing {G2683} the mercyseat {G2435}; of {G4012} which {G3739} we cannot {G3756}{G2076} now {G3568} speak {G3004} particularly {G2596}{G3313}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and above it were the k’ruvim representing the Sh’khinah, casting their shadow on the lid of the Ark — but now is not the time to discuss these things in detail.

Berean Standard Bible

Above the ark were the cherubim of glory, overshadowing the mercy seat. But we cannot discuss these things in detail now.

American Standard Version

and above it cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy-seat; of which things we cannot now speak severally.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Hebrews 9:5 continues the author's meticulous description of the Old Covenant tabernacle, focusing on two pivotal elements within the Most Holy Place: the cherubim of glory and the mercy seat. These sacred objects, situated atop the Ark of the Covenant, served as profound symbols of God's holy presence, His divine majesty, and the means by which atonement was made for the sins of Israel. The verse concludes with the author's deliberate decision to defer a more detailed discussion of these items, signaling his intent to pivot quickly to their ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of a broader exposition in [Hebrews 9:1-10](/hebrews/9-1-10 "Hebrews 9:1-10 - The Earthly Sanctuary and its Services"), where the author systematically details the components of the earthly tabernacle and the rituals performed within it. Immediately preceding [Hebrews 9:5](/hebrews/9-5 "Hebrews 9:5 - Cherubim and Mercy Seat"), [Hebrews 9:4](/hebrews/9-4 "Hebrews 9:4 - Contents of the Ark") describes the Ark of the Covenant itself, mentioning the golden pot of manna, Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant. The "it" in "And over it" in [Hebrews 9:5](/hebrews/9-5 "Hebrews 9:5 - Cherubim and Mercy Seat") directly refers to this Ark. The subsequent verses in [Hebrews 9](/hebrews/9 "Hebrews 9 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice") shift to explaining the limitations of the Old Covenant system and the superior nature of Christ's sacrifice and ministry in the heavenly sanctuary, making the brief mention of these elements in [Hebrews 9:5](/hebrews/9-5 "Hebrews 9:5 - Cherubim and Mercy Seat") a deliberate setup for the theological arguments that follow.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The tabernacle, described in intricate detail in [Exodus 25-40](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle") and [Leviticus](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus - Laws of Worship and Holiness"), was the portable sanctuary where God's presence dwelt among the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings and before the construction of the Temple. The Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) was the innermost and most sacred chamber, accessible only to the High Priest once a year on the Day of Atonement ([Yom Kippur](/leviticus/16 "Leviticus 16 - The Day of Atonement")). The cherubim and the mercy seat were the focal point of this sacred space, representing the very throne of God and the place where His justice and mercy intersected through the shedding of blood. Understanding the meticulous design and restricted access helps the original Jewish audience of Hebrews grasp the profound shift introduced by Christ.
* **Key Themes:** [Hebrews 9:5](/hebrews/9-5 "Hebrews 9:5 - Cherubim and Mercy Seat") contributes significantly to the overarching themes of the book of Hebrews, particularly the **superiority of Christ** and the **new covenant**. The detailed description of the tabernacle's furnishings serves as a backdrop to highlight the limitations of the Old Covenant system as a shadow of better things to come ([Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "Hebrews 8:5 - Heavenly Pattern")). The mention of the mercy seat, in particular, foreshadows the theme of **atonement** and **propitiation**, which is perfectly fulfilled in Christ's once-for-all sacrifice ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Eternal Redemption")). The author's decision to not "speak particularly" about these elements underscores the theme that the earthly sanctuary was merely a **type** pointing to the **heavenly reality** of Christ's ministry.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **cherubims (Greek, _cheroubím'_):** From Hebrew origin (כְּרוּב), referring to "cherubim" or "cherubs." These are angelic beings associated with guarding sacred spaces (e.g., [Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guard Eden")) and serving as guardians of God's holy presence, often depicted with wings. Their presence over the mercy seat signifies their role in God's divine court and the holiness surrounding His dwelling place.
* **glory (Greek, _dóxa'_):** From the base of δοκέω, meaning "glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)." Here, "cherubims of glory" indicates their association with God's manifest presence, His radiant splendor, and the visible display of His majesty (often referred to as the Shekinah glory in Jewish tradition). They are not glorious in themselves, but reflect and guard the glory of God.
* **mercyseat (Greek, _hilastḗrion'_):** Neuter of a derivative of ἱλάσκομαι, meaning "an expiatory (place or thing), i.e. (concretely) an atoning victim, or (specially) the lid of the Ark (in the Temple)." This term is profoundly significant, as it refers to the golden lid of the Ark of the Covenant, where the High Priest sprinkled blood on the Day of Atonement. It was the place of propitiation, where God's wrath was averted through the prescribed sacrifice, allowing His mercy to be extended.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat":** This clause describes the two golden cherubim positioned on the lid of the Ark of the Covenant, known as the mercy seat. Their outstretched wings "shadowed" or overshadowed the mercy seat, indicating their protective role and their constant gaze upon the place of atonement. This imagery emphasizes the holiness of God's presence and the solemnity of the place where He met with His people. The "glory" associated with them highlights their connection to God's majestic and awe-inspiring presence.
* **"of which we cannot now speak particularly":** This concluding phrase signals the author's deliberate rhetorical choice. He acknowledges the intricate details and profound symbolism of these tabernacle elements but chooses not to delve into an exhaustive explanation at this point. His purpose is not to provide a detailed commentary on the Old Covenant rituals but to swiftly move to their ultimate fulfillment and abrogation in Christ, demonstrating the superiority of the new covenant. This brevity serves to underscore the temporary and preparatory nature of the Old Covenant system.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs significant **Symbolism** and **Typology**. The **cherubim** symbolize God's holy presence, His majesty, and the guardianship of sacred space, harkening back to their role in [Genesis 3:24](/genesis/3-24 "Genesis 3:24 - Cherubim Guard Eden") at the Garden of Eden. The **mercyseat** is a powerful symbol of atonement and propitiation, representing the precise point where God's justice and mercy converged through the shedding of blood. As a **type**, the mercy seat prefigures Jesus Christ Himself, who is presented in the New Testament as the ultimate "propitiation" or "atoning sacrifice" for sins ([Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Christ as Propitiation")). The author's concise statement, "of which we cannot now speak particularly," functions as a rhetorical device, a form of **aposiopesis** or **praeteritio**, where he intentionally leaves certain details unsaid or briefly mentioned to emphasize his primary theological argument about the superiority of Christ and the new covenant. This also serves as **foreshadowing**, hinting at the deeper truths he will soon unveil.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hebrews 9:5 powerfully connects the Old Covenant's sacrificial system to the New Covenant's fulfillment in Christ. The mercy seat, the locus of atonement under the Law, was where God's holiness and mercy met through the blood of animals. This foreshadowed the ultimate meeting point of divine justice and mercy at the cross, where Christ's blood was shed. The presence of the cherubim, guarding the divine presence, underscored the inaccessibility of God to sinful humanity apart from a divinely ordained means of atonement. This entire arrangement points to the absolute necessity of a perfect, once-for-all sacrifice to bridge the chasm between a holy God and sinful humanity, a need fully met in Jesus.

* [Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Christ Our Propitiation"): "Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God."
* [1 John 2:2](/1_john/2-2 "1 John 2:2 - Christ the Propitiation"): "And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world."
* [Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access Through Christ's Blood"): "Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hebrews 9:5, though brief, serves as a profound reminder of God's holiness, His meticulous design for atonement, and the ultimate accessibility we now have through Christ. The Old Testament tabernacle, with its veiled Most Holy Place and restricted access, vividly illustrated humanity's separation from a holy God due to sin. The cherubim and mercy seat, while glorious, pointed to a future reality where perfect access would be granted. For us today, this means recognizing that the elaborate rituals and physical structures of the Old Covenant were never the end goal but divinely appointed pointers to Jesus. We are called to appreciate the immense privilege of direct, unhindered access to God's presence, not through animal sacrifices or a human high priest, but through the finished work of our Great High Priest, Jesus Christ. This understanding should cultivate deep gratitude, humble reverence, and confident boldness in our approach to God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of the cherubim guarding God's glory and the mercy seat deepen your understanding of God's holiness and His provision for sin?**
* **In what ways does the temporary and symbolic nature of the Old Covenant tabernacle, as highlighted in this verse, help you appreciate the permanence and perfection of Christ's work?**
* **Considering that we now have direct access to God through Christ, how should this truth impact your daily walk, prayer life, and worship?**

### FAQ
**Why were the cherubim called "cherubims of glory"?**

Answer: The cherubim were called "cherubims of glory" because they were intimately associated with God's manifest presence and divine majesty. Their presence over the mercy seat, the very place where God's glory was revealed and where atonement was made, signified their role as guardians and attendants of God's radiant holiness. They reflected and emphasized the awe-inspiring nature of the divine presence within the Most Holy Place, underscoring that the area was permeated by God's own splendor and authority, as seen in [Exodus 40:34-35](/exodus/40-34-35 "Exodus 40:34-35 - The Glory Filling the Tabernacle").

**Why does the author state, "of which we cannot now speak particularly"?**

Answer: The author of Hebrews, writing to a Jewish audience steeped in the Old Testament, intentionally limits his detailed description of the tabernacle furnishings. His primary purpose is not to provide an exhaustive commentary on Old Covenant typology, but to swiftly establish the superiority of Jesus Christ and the New Covenant. By saying "we cannot now speak particularly," he signals that while these elements are significant, his focus is on demonstrating how they are superseded and perfectly fulfilled by Christ's once-for-all sacrifice and His ongoing ministry as High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary. This rhetorical move allows him to transition quickly to the core theological arguments of [Hebrews 9:6-10](/hebrews/9-6-10 "Hebrews 9:6-10 - Limitations of the Old Covenant") and beyond.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hebrews 9:5, with its focus on the cherubim of glory and the mercy seat, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus. The earthly mercy seat, where the High Priest sprinkled blood for atonement, was a powerful type of Christ Himself. Just as the mercy seat was the place where God's holiness and mercy converged through sacrifice, so Jesus is our ultimate "propitiation" ([Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Christ as Propitiation")), the true meeting place where God's righteous wrath against sin was satisfied by His own perfect sacrifice. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), making a way for us to approach a holy God. Furthermore, Christ's entry into the heavenly sanctuary, not with the blood of animals but with His own blood, secured an eternal redemption ([Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ's Eternal Redemption")), opening the "new and living way" through the torn veil of His flesh ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access Through Christ's Blood")). The cherubim, once guarding the way to God's presence, now witness our unhindered access to the throne of grace, all made possible by our Great High Priest, Jesus Christ ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Come Boldly to the Throne of Grace")).

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

Leviticus 16:2

And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy [place] within the vail before the mercy seat, which [is] upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat.

Numbers 7:89

And when Moses was gone into the tabernacle of the congregation to speak with him, then he heard the voice of one speaking unto him from off the mercy seat that [was] upon the ark of testimony, from between the two cherubims: and he spake unto him.

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.

Exodus 25:22

And there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubims which [are] upon the ark of the testimony, of all [things] which I will give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel.

1 Kings 8:6

And the priests brought in the ark of the covenant of the LORD unto his place, into the oracle of the house, to the most holy [place, even] under the wings of the cherubims.

1 Kings 8:7

For the cherubims spread forth [their] two wings over the place of the ark, and the cherubims covered the ark and the staves thereof above.

Leviticus 16:13

And he shall put the incense upon the fire before the LORD, that the cloud of the incense may cover the mercy seat that [is] upon the testimony, that he die not: