Ezekiel 10:17

When they stood, [these] stood; and when they were lifted up, [these] lifted up themselves [also]: for the spirit of the living creature [was] in them.

When they stood {H5975}, these stood {H5975}; and when they were lifted up {H7311}, these lifted up {H7426} themselves also: for the spirit {H7307} of the living creature {H2416} was in them.

When [the k'ruvim] stood still, [the wheels] stood still; and when the former rose, the latter rose with them; because the spirit of the living creatures was in them.

When the cherubim stood still, the wheels also stood still, and when they ascended, the wheels ascended with them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.

When they stood, these stood; and when they mounted up, these mounted up with them: for the spirit of the living creature was in them.

Commentary

Ezekiel 10:17 (KJV) continues the prophet Ezekiel's profound vision of God's glory, specifically detailing the intricate relationship and synchronized movement between the cherubim (living creatures) and the wheels (often called 'ofen' or 'galgal' in Hebrew) that accompanied them.

Context

This verse is part of Ezekiel's second major vision of God's glory, occurring in the Temple at Jerusalem before its destruction. It closely mirrors and expands upon the initial vision described in Ezekiel chapter 1, where the prophet first encountered the divine chariot-throne. In both visions, the cherubim and wheels are integral components of God's mobile, celestial throne, symbolizing His omnipresence and sovereign control. Chapter 10 specifically describes the departure of the glory of the Lord from the Temple, signaling impending judgment upon Jerusalem.

Key Themes

  • Divine Sovereignty and Control: The seamless, unified movement described—"When they stood, [these] stood; and when they were lifted up, [these] lifted up themselves [also]"—highlights God's absolute command over all creation. Every component of His divine presence moves in perfect obedience to His will.
  • Unity and Synchronization: The verse emphasizes the remarkable harmony between the living creatures and the wheels. Their movements are perfectly coordinated, underscoring the divine order and the unified purpose inherent in God's operations. This is not a chaotic scene but one of precise, supernatural orchestration.
  • The Spirit as the Animating Force: The crucial phrase, "for the spirit of the living creature [was] in them," reveals the source of this perfect coordination. It indicates that the same divine spirit animating the cherubim also directed the wheels, ensuring their synchronized action. This underscores the dynamic, living nature of God's presence.
  • Mobility of God's Glory: The entire vision, including the detailed description of movement, reinforces the idea that God's glory is not static or confined to a physical temple but is dynamic and can move where He wills, signaling His omnipresence and transcendence.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated as "spirit" is ruach (רוּחַ). This versatile word can mean breath, wind, or spirit. In this context, it signifies the animating, life-giving, and directive force. It's the divine essence or power that provides the impetus for the cherubim and, by extension, the wheels. It's not just a physical force but an intelligent, purposeful energy originating from God Himself, ensuring the precise execution of His will.

Practical Application

Ezekiel's vision, particularly this verse, offers profound insights for believers today. It reminds us of God's ultimate sovereignty and His meticulous control over all things, even in times of judgment or uncertainty. Just as the cherubim and wheels moved in perfect unity under the guidance of the divine spirit, as also described in Ezekiel 1:20, so too are believers called to live in harmony with God's Spirit, allowing Him to direct our paths and actions. This vision encourages trust in God's perfect plan and reminds us that His presence is not limited to specific places but is active and dynamic in the world, always working according to His divine purpose.

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Cross-References

  • Ezekiel 1:20 (4 votes)

    Whithersoever the spirit was to go, they went, thither [was their] spirit to go; and the wheels were lifted up over against them: for the spirit of the living creature [was] in the wheels.

  • Ezekiel 1:21 (4 votes)

    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.

  • Romans 8:2 (3 votes)

    For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

  • Ezekiel 1:12 (2 votes)

    And they went every one straight forward: whither the spirit was to go, they went; [and] they turned not when they went.

  • Genesis 2:7 (2 votes)

    And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.

  • Revelation 11:11 (2 votes)

    And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.