What are cherubim and seraphim according to the Bible?

In the rich tapestry of biblical literature, cherubim and seraphim stand out as two of the most intriguing and enigmatic classes of spiritual beings. These celestial entities are often depicted in ways that evoke awe and reverence, and they play significant roles in the divine narrative. Understanding cherubim and seraphim requires delving into the scriptures that describe their characteristics, roles, and symbolism.

Cherubim: Guardians of Divine Holiness

Cherubim first appear in the Bible in the Book of Genesis. After Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden, God places cherubim to the east of the garden to guard the way to the tree of life (Genesis 3:24). This initial mention establishes cherubim as protectors of sacred spaces, ensuring that the holiness of God's presence is not violated by sin.

The imagery of cherubim is further elaborated in the Book of Exodus, where they are described as part of the design of the Ark of the Covenant. God instructs Moses to make two cherubim of gold, facing each other with wings outstretched over the mercy seat (Exodus 25:18-20). Here, the cherubim symbolize the divine presence and serve as a throne for God, emphasizing their role as intermediaries between the divine and the earthly realms.

The most detailed description of cherubim comes from the prophet Ezekiel. In his vision, Ezekiel sees four living creatures, each with four faces (that of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle), and four wings (Ezekiel 1:5-11). These creatures are later identified as cherubim (Ezekiel 10:20). The complex and multi-faceted appearance of the cherubim in Ezekiel's vision underscores their role as bearers of God's glory and executors of His will. Their multiple faces and wings suggest a being of immense power and perception, capable of moving swiftly and seeing all directions, symbolizing God's omnipresence and omniscience.

Seraphim: The Fiery Ones

Seraphim are mentioned explicitly only in the Book of Isaiah, where the prophet describes his vision of the Lord seated on a high and exalted throne, with the train of His robe filling the temple. Above Him were seraphim, each with six wings: with two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying (Isaiah 6:1-2). The term "seraphim" comes from the Hebrew root "seraph," which means "to burn," indicating their fiery nature.

In Isaiah's vision, the seraphim are engaged in continuous worship, calling to one another, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory" (Isaiah 6:3). This threefold declaration of God's holiness emphasizes His absolute purity and separateness from sin. The seraphim's act of covering their faces and feet with their wings signifies their reverence and humility in the presence of God's overwhelming holiness.

One of the seraphim performs a significant act in Isaiah's vision: he takes a live coal from the altar with tongs and touches Isaiah's mouth with it, declaring, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for" (Isaiah 6:6-7). This action symbolizes purification and the removal of sin, highlighting the seraphim's role in the process of sanctification and their association with God's refining fire.

Symbolism and Theological Significance

The cherubim and seraphim, while distinct in their descriptions and roles, share common themes that reflect deeper theological truths about God's nature and His relationship with creation.

Cherubim, with their multifaceted forms and roles as guardians, symbolize the majesty and mystery of God's presence. Their placement in the Holy of Holies, the innermost sanctuary of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, underscores the sacredness of God's dwelling place. The cherubim's association with the Ark of the Covenant, where God's presence was believed to dwell, further emphasizes their role as protectors of divine holiness and mediators of God's presence to His people.

Seraphim, on the other hand, with their fiery nature and continuous worship, represent the purity and intensity of God's holiness. Their presence in Isaiah's vision highlights the transformative power of encountering God, as Isaiah is purified and commissioned for prophetic ministry. The seraphim's song, "Holy, holy, holy," echoes in Christian liturgy as a reminder of God's transcendence and the call to worship Him with reverence and awe.

Both cherubim and seraphim serve as reminders of the distance between God's holiness and human sinfulness, yet they also point to the possibility of reconciliation and purification. The cherubim's role in guarding the way to the tree of life suggests that access to eternal life is guarded but not permanently closed. The seraphim's act of purifying Isaiah with a burning coal signifies that God provides means for cleansing and atonement, making it possible for humans to stand in His holy presence.

Cherubim and Seraphim in Christian Thought

Throughout Christian history, cherubim and seraphim have been subjects of theological reflection and artistic depiction. Early Church Fathers, such as Augustine and Gregory the Great, pondered their significance and roles. Augustine, in his work "City of God," interprets the cherubim as symbolizing the fullness of knowledge and wisdom found in God, while Gregory the Great sees them as representing the contemplation of divine truths.

In Christian art and iconography, cherubim and seraphim are often depicted in ways that reflect their biblical descriptions. Cherubim are sometimes shown as multi-winged creatures with multiple faces, emphasizing their role as guardians and bearers of God's glory. Seraphim are typically portrayed as fiery, six-winged beings, symbolizing their purity and their role in divine worship.

In contemporary Christian worship, the imagery of cherubim and seraphim continues to inspire. Hymns and liturgical texts often invoke their presence, drawing worshippers into the heavenly chorus that praises God's holiness. The "Sanctus," a hymn sung during the Eucharistic prayer in many Christian traditions, echoes the seraphim's cry, "Holy, holy, holy," inviting believers to join in the eternal worship of God.

Conclusion

Cherubim and seraphim, with their vivid and awe-inspiring depictions in the Bible, offer profound insights into the nature of God's holiness and the dynamics of His relationship with creation. Cherubim, as guardians of divine sanctity and intermediaries of God's presence, remind us of the majesty and mystery of God. Seraphim, as fiery worshippers and agents of purification, call us to recognize the transformative power of encountering God's holiness.

These celestial beings, though mysterious and often beyond full human comprehension, serve as powerful symbols of the divine attributes they represent. They invite us to approach God with reverence, humility, and a deep sense of awe, acknowledging both His transcendence and His gracious provision for our reconciliation and purification. In contemplating cherubim and seraphim, we are drawn into a deeper appreciation of the grandeur of God's holiness and the profound mystery of His presence among us.