Ezekiel 10:3

Now the cherubims stood on the right side of the house, when the man went in; and the cloud filled the inner court.

Ezekiel 10:3 (KJV)

Context

The book of Ezekiel is a prophetic book in the Old Testament, containing visions and prophecies given to the prophet Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile. In this verse, Ezekiel describes a vision of the glory of God departing from the temple in Jerusalem because of the people’s idolatry and wickedness.

Meaning

The cherubim are angelic beings associated with the presence, holiness, and majesty of God, often depicted as guardians of His throne. Here they stand on the right side of the house, which many commentators interpret as the south side. This position is significant because it is opposite the north, where the gross idolatries were committed (Ezekiel 8:3, 5, 14). The cherubim stand at the greatest distance from that sin, bearing testimony against it.

The man referred to in this verse is the same figure commanded in Ezekiel 10:2 to take coals of fire from between the cherubim and scatter them over the city, an act of judgment. The cherubim standing as a levee through which the man passes shows their role in the divine order and their attendance upon God’s commands.

The cloud that fills the inner court is the Shekinah glory of God, the visible manifestation of His presence. In many instances throughout Scripture, a cloud is associated with divine appearances, such as the cloud that led the Israelites in the wilderness or the cloud that covered Mount Sinai during the giving of the law. The immediate context (Ezekiel 10:4) shows the glory of the LORD going up from the cherubim and standing over the threshold of the house, filling the temple with the cloud and the court with the brightness of His glory.

Biblical connections

This verse symbolizes the departure of God’s glory from the temple in Jerusalem. The cherubim standing on the right side of the house signify the presence of God’s heavenly host. The cloud filling the inner court indicates God’s presence departing from the temple. The vision portrays the judgment of God upon the nation of Israel and the consequences of their unfaithfulness, emphasizing God’s holiness and sovereignty.

Application

As believers today, we can learn from this passage by understanding the importance of honoring and obeying God. The departure of God’s glory from the temple highlights the consequence of sin and the need for repentance. We should strive to maintain a close relationship with God, walking in obedience to His Word and seeking His presence in our lives.

Remember, the book of Ezekiel contains many more visions and prophecies that reveal God’s plans, judgments, and restoration for His people. Studying the entire book in context will provide a deeper understanding of God’s message through Ezekiel.