Ezekiel 3:13

I heard also the noise of the wings of the living creatures that touched one another, and the noise of the wheels over against them, and a noise of a great rushing.

Ezekiel 3:13 (KJV)

Context

Ezekiel was a prophet among the exiles in Babylon, and his prophecies brought both judgment and hope to Israel. This verse belongs to his inaugural vision of God’s glory, which begins in Ezekiel 1 and continues through his commissioning in chapter 3.

Meaning

In this verse, Ezekiel describes what he hears in the vision: the noise of the wings of the living creatures touching one another, the noise of the wheels beside them, and a noise of a great rushing. The living creatures and wheels are part of the divine throne-chariot vision, symbolizing God’s sovereign mobility and glory. The sound of the wings and wheels makes the divine encounter vivid and undeniable, emphasizing the overwhelming, powerful, and awe-inspiring nature of God’s presence and movement.

The phrase “touched one another” (or “kissed, a woman her sister” in the Hebrew) suggests harmony and agreement among the creatures, possibly reflecting their unified worship and praise of God. The “great rushing” conveys the sheer power and intensity of God’s presence. This auditory detail accompanies the creatures’ doxology in Ezekiel 3:12, “Blessed be the glory of the LORD from his place,” and sets the stage for the Spirit lifting Ezekiel up in Ezekiel 3:14, showing that the divine encounter leads to prophetic action.

Biblical connections

The noise of the wings is also described in Ezekiel 1:24, where it is compared to the roar of rushing waters, the voice of the Almighty, and the tumult of an army. This comparison reinforces the majesty and power of God’s presence. The living creatures are later identified as cherubim in Ezekiel 10:20, and the wheels are described in Ezekiel 1:15-21 as having rims full of eyes and moving together with the living creatures, symbolizing divine movement and providential control.

Application

God’s sovereignty and control: The imagery of the wings and the wheels reminds us that God is in control of all things. Just as the wheels moved in unison with the living creatures, God orchestrates events and directs the course of history according to His divine plan.

The awe-inspiring presence of God: The noise of the great rushing reminds us of the majesty and power of God. It serves as a reminder of His holiness and the need for reverence and awe in our approach to Him.

Active engagement in God’s work: The movement of the wings and the noise they create indicate the activity and service of the living creatures. As believers, we are called to be actively engaged in God’s work, serving Him faithfully and fulfilling the purposes He has for us.

Unified worship: The harmony of the creatures’ wings touching one another encourages believers to worship God in unity, reflecting the creatures’ agreement in praising Him.

Reflection

Ezekiel’s visions and prophecies serve as a reminder of God’s faithfulness, even in times of judgment and exile. Despite the challenges and hardships faced by the Israelites, God remained present and continued to communicate with His people through prophets like Ezekiel. The overwhelming sound reminds us that God’s ways and works are beyond human comprehension, yet He reveals Himself to His servants. The vision assures that God is actively present and moving, even in times of exile and difficulty, as He was with Ezekiel by the river Chebar.