The Departure of God’s Glory: A Commentary on Ezekiel 10

Executive Summary ✨

Ezekiel 10 recounts a harrowing vision: the departure of God’s glory from the Temple in Jerusalem. This chapter, a pivotal moment in Ezekiel’s prophecy, showcases the judgment looming over a sinful nation. We witness the fiery judgment against the city, signified by coals scattered over Jerusalem. The glory of the Lord, previously enthroned above the cherubim in the Holy of Holies, now prepares to leave, a visible manifestation of God’s withdrawal from a people steeped in idolatry and injustice. This departure is not arbitrary; it’s a consequence of persistent rebellion, prompting a profound spiritual lesson for us today: the presence of God is not guaranteed, but rather a gift sustained through repentance and righteousness. This commentary explores the theological implications of God’s glory departing, contextualizing Ezekiel’s vision within the broader scope of salvation history and the Coptic Orthodox faith.

Ezekiel 10 marks a critical turning point in the prophet’s message. God’s presence, once central to Israel’s identity, is withdrawing. This chapter serves as a stark warning against spiritual complacency and the dangers of substituting ritual for genuine devotion.

Commentary Sections

Ezekiel 10:1-2

Ezekiel 10:1-2 (KJV): Then I looked, and, behold, in the firmament that was above the head of the cherubims there appeared over them as it were a sapphire stone, as the appearance of the likeness of a throne. And he spake unto the man clothed with linen, and said, Go in between the wheels, even under the cherub, and fill thine hand with coals of fire from between the cherubims, and scatter them over the city.

Ezekiel 10:1-2 (NKJV): And when I looked, there in the firmament that was above the head of the cherubim, there appeared something like a sapphire stone, having the appearance of the likeness of a throne. Then He spoke to the man clothed with linen, and said, “Go in among the wheels, under the cherub, and fill your hands with coals of fire from among the cherubim, and scatter them over the city.” And he went in before my eyes.

Ezekiel sees a “sapphire stone,” resembling a throne, above the cherubim. This vividly echoes Exodus 24:10, where the elders of Israel saw “a pavement of sapphire stone, and it was like the very heavens in its clarity.” This is not merely a beautiful image; it’s a representation of God’s sovereign authority and holiness. The man clothed in linen, likely an angelic figure, is commanded to take coals of fire from among the cherubim and scatter them over the city. Fire, in Scripture, often symbolizes divine judgment and purification. This action foreshadows the impending destruction of Jerusalem due to its sin.

Spiritual Application: Just as the man in linen had to draw near to the cherubim to receive the coals of fire, we too must draw near to God through prayer and repentance to understand and participate in His justice. We should always strive for true worship. Find worship templates for your website.

Ezekiel 10:3-4

Ezekiel 10:3-4 (KJV): Now the cherubims stood on the right side of the house, when the man went in; and the cloud filled the inner court. Then the glory of the LORD went up from the cherub, and stood over the threshold of the house; and the house was filled with the cloud, and the court was full of the brightness of the LORD’S glory.

Ezekiel 10:3-4 (NKJV): Now the cherubim were standing on the right side of the house when the man went in, and the cloud filled the inner court. Then the glory of the LORD went up from the cherub, and paused over the threshold of the temple; and the house was filled with the cloud, and the court was full of the brightness of the LORD’s glory.

The cherubim are positioned “on the right side of the house” (likely the south side, a place of honor). The cloud fills the inner court, signifying the presence of God. Crucially, “the glory of the LORD went up from the cherub, and stood over the threshold of the house.” This marks the *beginning* of God’s departure. He doesn’t immediately abandon the Temple, but hesitates, giving the people a final opportunity to repent. The brightness of God’s glory fills the court, a final, awe-inspiring display of His power and majesty before He withdraws.

St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on Ezekiel, writes about this moment: “Δεῖ γὰρ νοεῖν, ὡς οὐκ εὐθέως ἐγκατέλιπε τὸ ἱερόν, ἀλλὰ πρότερον ἐπέστη τῷ προθύρῳ, διδάσκων ἡμᾶς, ὡς μακρόθυμος ὁ Θεὸς ἐπὶ τοὺς ἁμαρτάνοντας.” (Dei gar noein, hōs ouk eutheōs enkatelipe to hieron, alla proteron epestē tō prothyrō, didaskōn hēmas, hōs makrothymos ho Theos epi tous hamartanontas.) – “For we must understand that He did not immediately abandon the temple, but first stood at the threshold, teaching us that God is longsuffering towards sinners.” (Cyril of Alexandria, Commentary on Ezekiel, PG 70.1005).

Spiritual Application: God’s longsuffering is a profound grace. Even in the face of our sins, He gives us time and space to turn back to Him. We must not take this grace for granted, but seize every opportunity for repentance and renewal.

Ezekiel 10:5-7

Ezekiel 10:5-7 (KJV): And the sound of the cherubims’ wings was heard even to the outer court, as the voice of the Almighty God when he speaketh. And it came to pass, that when he had commanded the man clothed with linen, saying, Take fire from between the wheels, then he went in, and stood beside the wheels. And one cherub stretched forth his hand from between the cherubims unto the fire that was between the cherubims, and took thereof, and put it into the hands of him that was clothed with linen: who took it, and went out.

Ezekiel 10:5-7 (NKJV): And the sound of the wings of the cherubim was heard even to the outer court, like the voice of Almighty God when He speaks. Then it happened, when He commanded the man clothed with linen, saying, “Take fire from among the wheels, from among the cherubim,” that he went in and stood beside the wheels. And one of the cherubim stretched out his hand from among the cherubim to the fire that was among the cherubim, and took some of it and put it into the hands of the man clothed with linen, who took it and went out.

The sound of the cherubim’s wings is likened to “the voice of Almighty God,” emphasizing the divine authority and power behind this judgment. The cherubim’s movement is not chaotic; it is precisely orchestrated by God. The angelic figure takes the fire from between the cherubim, symbolizing that the judgment originates from within the very presence of God. This is not an external attack; it’s a consequence of the corruption within the Temple itself.

Spiritual Application: Sin contaminates not only individuals but also institutions. We must be vigilant to guard against corruption in all areas of our lives, both personal and communal. The judgment begins from within.

Ezekiel 10:8-14

Ezekiel 10:8-14 (KJV): And there appeared in the cherubims’ hand the form of a man’s hand under their wings. And when I looked, behold the four wheels by the cherubims, one wheel by one cherub, and another wheel by another cherub: and the appearance of the wheels was as the colour of a beryl stone. And as for their appearances, they four had one likeness, as if a wheel had been in the midst of a wheel. When they went, they went upon their four sides; they turned not as they went, but to the place whither the head looked they followed it; they turned not as they went. And their whole body, and their backs, and their hands, and their wings, and the wheels, were full of eyes round about, even the wheels that they four had. As for the wheels, it was cried unto them in my hearing, O wheel. And every one had four faces: the first face was the face of a cherub, and the second face was the face of a man, and the third the face of a lion, and the fourth the face of an eagle.

Ezekiel 10:8-14 (NKJV): The cherubim appeared to have the form of a man’s hand under their wings. And when I looked, there were four wheels beside the cherubim, one wheel beside each cherub; and the appearance of the wheels was like the color of a beryl stone. As for their appearance, all four looked alike—as it were, a wheel within a wheel. When they moved, they went toward any of their four directions; they did not turn aside when they went, but followed in the direction the head was facing. Their entire body, including their back, their hands, and their wings, as well as the wheels, was full of eyes all around, the wheels that belonged to all four of them. As for the wheels, they were called “Wheel” in my hearing. Each one had four faces: the first face was the face of a cherub, the second face the face of a man, the third the face of a lion, and the fourth the face of an eagle.

This passage provides a more detailed description of the cherubim and the wheels associated with them, building upon the vision in Ezekiel 1. The wheels, described as being “the color of a beryl stone” (a precious gemstone), are interconnected (“a wheel within a wheel”), signifying the complex and unified nature of God’s power and movement. The cherubim’s multifaceted faces – cherub, man, lion, eagle – represent the diverse aspects of God’s creation and His dominion over all. The “eyes all around” symbolize their omniscience and constant vigilance. The term “O wheel” being cried out highlights the mysterious and powerful nature of these divine instruments.

Spiritual Application: God’s power is multifaceted and all-encompassing. We cannot fully grasp the mystery of His being, but we can trust in His wisdom and sovereignty. The “eyes all around” remind us that nothing is hidden from God’s sight. We must strive for transparency and integrity in all our actions.

Ezekiel 10:15-17

Ezekiel 10:15-17 (KJV): And the cherubims were lifted up. This is the living creature that I saw by the river of Chebar. And when the cherubims went, the wheels went by them: and when the cherubims lifted up their wings to mount up from the earth, the same wheels also turned not from beside them. 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.

Ezekiel 10:15-17 (NKJV): Then the cherubim were lifted up. This was the living creature I had seen by the River Chebar. When the cherubim went, the wheels went beside them; and when the cherubim lifted their wings to mount up from the earth, the wheels did not turn from beside them. When the cherubim stood still, they stood still, and when they were lifted up, they lifted up also, for the spirit of the living creature was in them.

Ezekiel recognizes these cherubim as the “living creature” he saw in his earlier vision by the River Chebar (Ezekiel 1). This reinforces the continuity and consistency of God’s revelation. The cherubim and the wheels move in perfect synchronicity, emphasizing the unified purpose and direction of God’s divine plan. This is not a chaotic abandonment; it’s a deliberate and orchestrated departure.

Spiritual Application: God’s plan is coherent and consistent. Even in the midst of judgment, there is purpose and order. We can trust that God is in control, even when we don’t understand His ways.

Ezekiel 10:18-19

Ezekiel 10:18-19 (KJV): Then the glory of the LORD departed from off the threshold of the house, and stood over the cherubims. And the cherubims lifted up their wings, and mounted up from the earth in my sight: when they went out, the wheels also were beside them, and every one stood at the door of the east gate of the LORD’S house; and the glory of the God of Israel was over them above.

Ezekiel 10:18-19 (NKJV): Then the glory of the LORD departed from the threshold of the temple and stood over the cherubim. And the cherubim lifted their wings and mounted up from the earth in my sight. When they went out, the wheels were beside them; and they stood at the door of the east gate of the Lord’s house, and the glory of the God of Israel was above them.

Here, the crucial moment arrives: “the glory of the LORD departed from the threshold of the house, and stood over the cherubims.” God’s glory, having hesitated at the threshold, now moves definitively away from the Temple. The cherubim, carrying the divine presence, stand at the “door of the east gate,” the main entrance to the Temple. This placement is significant: God is not sneaking away; He is departing openly and visibly, making it clear that He is no longer dwelling in the Temple.

Spiritual Application: The departure of God’s glory is a stark warning against spiritual complacency. We cannot presume upon God’s presence; we must actively cultivate a relationship with Him through obedience and devotion. Idolatry and sin drive God away.

Ezekiel 10:20-22

Ezekiel 10:20-22 (KJV): This is the living creature that I saw under the God of Israel by the river of Chebar; and I knew that they were the cherubims. Every one had four faces apiece, and every one four wings; and the likeness of the hands of a man was under their wings. And the likeness of their faces was the same faces which I saw by the river of Chebar, their appearances and themselves: they went every one straight forward.

Ezekiel 10:20-22 (NKJV): This was the living creature I had seen under the God of Israel by the River Chebar, and I knew they were cherubim. Each one had four faces and each one four wings, and the likeness of the hands of a man was under their wings. And the likeness of their faces was the same as the faces of which I had seen by the River Chebar. Each one went straight forward.

Ezekiel reiterates that these are the same cherubim he saw in his earlier vision, solidifying the consistency and reliability of his prophetic experience. The description of their faces and wings is a repetition, emphasizing the significance of these symbolic features. The phrase “they went every one straight forward” underscores their unwavering obedience and purpose.

Spiritual Application: We must remain steadfast in our faith and commitment to God. Like the cherubim, we should move “straight forward,” without wavering or being distracted by the temptations of the world. Consistency in our spiritual walk is essential.

Key Reflections on God’s Departing Glory 🕊️

The departure of God’s glory departing in Ezekiel 10 offers several profound spiritual lessons:

• Judgment and Sin: The departure is directly linked to the sins of the people. God’s holiness cannot coexist with unrepentant wickedness.
• Loss of Blessing: The absence of God’s presence signifies the loss of protection, guidance, and blessing.
• Repentance and Restoration: While this chapter depicts judgment, it implicitly calls for repentance. God desires to restore His presence, but only through genuine change of heart.
• True Worship: The focus shifts from the Temple as a building to the importance of inward worship and obedience. True worship is not simply ritual; it is a relationship with God.
• Spiritual Discernment: We must be able to discern the presence or absence of God’s Spirit in our lives and in the Church.
• God’s Sovereignty: Ultimately, the departure of God’s glory underscores His sovereignty. He is not bound to any place or people; He is free to act according to His will.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Ezekiel 10 and its implications:

• Q: What does the “sapphire stone” throne represent?

  A: The sapphire stone throne symbolizes God’s sovereign authority, holiness, and majesty. It echoes the vision of God’s glory in Exodus 24:10, highlighting the divine presence and power.

• Q: Why did God’s glory depart from the Temple?

  A: God’s glory departed because of the persistent idolatry, injustice, and moral corruption of the people of Israel. Their sins had defiled the Temple, making it impossible for God’s holy presence to remain.

• Q: Is there hope for restoration after God’s glory departs?

  A: Yes, there is always hope for restoration through genuine repentance and a return to obedience. While Ezekiel 10 depicts judgment, it also implicitly calls for a change of heart that can lead to renewed fellowship with God. Remember God’s longsuffering nature.

• Q: How can we prevent God’s glory from departing from our lives and churches today?

  A: We can prevent God’s glory from departing by maintaining a humble and contrite heart, actively repenting of our sins, prioritizing genuine worship and obedience, and guarding against idolatry and corruption in all its forms.

Conclusion

Ezekiel 10 is a sobering chapter, a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of maintaining a right relationship with God. The departure of God’s glory departing from the Temple serves as a warning against spiritual complacency and the dangers of substituting ritual for genuine devotion. It underscores the truth that God’s presence is not a right to be claimed, but a gift to be cherished and guarded through obedience, repentance, and unwavering faith. Let us, therefore, examine our hearts, repent of our sins, and strive to live lives that are pleasing to God, so that we may always dwell in the light of His glory. This departure calls us to a deeper commitment to Christ and to the principles of the Gospel, so that we do not become like those from whom God’s presence visibly withdrew.

Tags

Ezekiel, Ezekiel 10, God’s Glory, Temple, Cherubim, Prophecy, Judgment, Repentance, Coptic Orthodox, Old Testament

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Explore Ezekiel 10: The departure of God’s glory from the Temple. A Coptic Orthodox commentary on sin, judgment, repentance, and the loss of divine presence.