### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term χερουβίμ (cheroubím, `{{G5502}}`) is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew plural noun כְּרוּבִים (keruvim), which is the plural of כְּרוּב (keruv, `{{H3742}}`). Its base definition in the New Testament, as in the Old, refers to a specific class of celestial or angelic beings. These creatures are consistently depicted in Scripture as having a unique role in relation to God's presence, holiness, and glory. Unlike broader terms for "angel," χερουβίμ denotes a distinct type of heavenly attendant, often associated with guardianship, the divine throne, and the manifestation of God's majesty. The semantic range is quite narrow, referring specifically to these entities without significant metaphorical or extended meanings beyond their literal identification.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, χερουβίμ (`{{G5502}}`) appears only once, in [[Hebrews 9:5]]: "And above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat." This solitary occurrence is deeply rooted in the Old Testament understanding and function of these beings. The author of Hebrews is describing the contents of the Holy of Holies in the earthly tabernacle, specifically the Ark of the Covenant, which was adorned with two cherubim fashioned from gold. Their position "overshadowing the mercy seat" (`{{G2435}}`) is crucial, as this was the place where God's presence was manifested and where atonement was made.
To fully grasp the significance of χερουβίμ in [[Hebrews 9:5]], one must consult their extensive portrayal in the Old Testament:
* **Guardians of Eden:** The first mention of cherubim is in [[Genesis 3:24]], where they are placed with a flaming sword to guard the way to the tree of life after Adam and Eve's expulsion from Eden. This establishes their role as protectors of divine sanctity and access.
* **Adornments of the Tabernacle and Temple:** In [[Exodus 25:18-22]], God commands Moses to make two cherubim of gold, placed on the ends of the mercy seat atop the Ark. Here, they face each other with outstretched wings, forming a kind of throne or canopy for God's presence, from which He would commune with Israel. Similar cherubim were integral to the design of Solomon's Temple ([[1 Kings 6:23-28]]; [[1 Kings 8:6-7]]).
* **Bearers of God's Throne-Chariot:** The most elaborate descriptions of cherubim are found in the visions of Ezekiel ([[Ezekiel 1]]; [[Ezekiel 10]]). Here, they are depicted as "living creatures" (חַיּוֹת - chayot) with multiple faces (man, lion, ox, eagle), wings, and wheels, serving as the mobile platform for God's glorious throne. This emphasizes their role in manifesting God's transcendence, omnipresence, and dynamic sovereignty.
* **Divine Transport:** [[Psalm 18:10]] ([[2 Samuel 22:11]]) describes God "riding on a cherub and flying," further illustrating their association with divine movement and power.
In [[Hebrews 9:5]], the "cherubim of glory" (`{{G1391}}`) underscore the divine majesty and holiness associated with the mercy seat, pointing to the ultimate reality of Christ's heavenly intercession.
### Related Words & Concepts
* `{{H3742}}` (כְּרוּב - keruv): The singular Hebrew root from which χερουβίμ is derived.
* Angels (`{{G32}}` - angelos): Cherubim are a specific category of heavenly beings, distinct from the general class of angels who primarily serve as messengers.
* Seraphim (`{{H8314}}` - seraphim): Another distinct class of winged heavenly beings mentioned in [[Isaiah 6]], often compared to cherubim, though their specific functions (e.g., purification, praise) differ.
* Glory (`{{G1391}}` - doxa): Frequently linked to cherubim, especially in [[Hebrews 9:5]] ("cherubim of glory") and Ezekiel's visions, where they embody and reveal God's radiant majesty.
* Mercy Seat (`{{G2435}}` - hilasterion): The golden lid of the Ark of the Covenant, over which the cherubim were placed, symbolizing the place of atonement and divine communion.
* Holiness/Sanctity: The consistent role of cherubim as guardians of sacred space and divine presence highlights the concept of God's absolute holiness.
* Divine Presence (Shekinah): Cherubim are intimately associated with the manifestation of God's immediate presence.
### Theological Significance
The cherubim, as conveyed by χερουβίμ in the New Testament and its Old Testament background, carry profound theological significance:
1. **Guardians of Divine Holiness and Access:** From the gates of Eden to the Holy of Holies, cherubim underscore God's transcendence and the sacredness of His presence. They signify that access to God is not to be taken lightly but is granted only on His terms, foreshadowing the ultimate access provided through Christ's sacrifice.
2. **Manifestations of God's Glory and Power:** Their elaborate descriptions in Ezekiel, with multiple faces, wings, and wheels, portray them as powerful, awe-inspiring beings that reflect the multifaceted glory and omnipotence of God. They are integral to the divine throne, symbolizing God's active sovereignty over all creation.
3. **Symbols of Divine Presence and Communion:** Placed over the mercy seat, the cherubim indicate the very locus of God's dwelling among His people. They are silent witnesses to the covenant relationship and the atoning work that allows for communion between a holy God and sinful humanity.
4. **Upholders of Cosmic Order:** Their role in Ezekiel's vision as the bearers of God's throne-chariot suggests their participation in the divine administration of the cosmos, ensuring the execution of God's will and judgment.
5. **Foreshadowing of Christ's Priesthood:** In [[Hebrews 9:5]], the "cherubim of glory" point to the earthly shadow of a heavenly reality. Just as they guarded the mercy seat where the High Priest performed atonement, so too do they highlight the superior, eternal atonement and intercession of Christ, who entered the true heavenly sanctuary, providing ultimate access to God.
### Summary
The Greek term χερουβίμ (`{{G5502}}`), a direct transliteration of the Hebrew כְּרוּבִים (`{{H3742}}`), refers to a distinct order of celestial beings. While appearing only once in the New Testament ([[Hebrews 9:5]]) in reference to their position over the Ark's mercy seat, their full theological weight is drawn from extensive Old Testament portrayals. Cherubim are consistently depicted as guardians of divine holiness, seen at the entrance to Eden ([[Genesis 3:24]]) and as integral to the Tabernacle and Temple ([[Exodus 25:18-22]]; [[1 Kings 6:23-28]]). Most powerfully, they are envisioned in Ezekiel ([[Ezekiel 1]]; [[Ezekiel 10]]) as the bearers of God's mobile throne-chariot, embodying His transcendent glory, dynamic presence, and sovereign power. Theologically, χερουβίμ signify the awe-inspiring majesty and unapproachable holiness of God, the sacredness of His presence, and the divine order that governs creation. They serve as profound symbols of God's active involvement in His creation and His provision for humanity's access to His presence through His appointed means.
TRV