Ezekiel 1 describes the prophet Ezekiel's vision of the "likeness of the glory of the Lord" riding on a four-winged, four-faced cherubim-pulled chariot. The vision, revealed by a stormy wind and bright light, symbolizes that God's power and presence are not limited to Jerusalem but extend everywhere, offering hope to the exiled people in Babylon. The four living creatures represent God's multifaceted creation, and the wheels with eyes symbolize His omniscience and omnipresence.
Key elements of the vision:
- The Throne-Chariot: Ezekiel sees what he describes as the "likeness of the glory of the Lord," which is a divine being on a throne, seated in a chariot-like structure.
- The Four Living Creatures: These are angelic beings, later identified as cherubim, each with four faces (man, lion, ox, and eagle) and four wings. They move with the speed of lightning.
- The Wheels: Beneath the creatures are four large wheels, each with its own wheel inside. They are covered in eyes and move in any of the four directions the creatures go, symbolizing God's omniscience and omnipresence.
- The Storm and Light: The vision is framed by a stormy wind from the north, containing a bright cloud, fire, and lightning, representing God's power and presence.
- Ezekiel's Reaction: Upon seeing the vision, Ezekiel falls to the ground, overwhelmed by the glory of God. He is then commanded to serve as a prophet to his people.
The message of the vision
- God is on the throne: Despite the fall of Jerusalem and the exile of his people, God is still in control and His glory is evident.
- God's presence is not confined to the Temple: The vision shows that God's power and presence are not limited to the Jerusalem temple but extend throughout the entire cosmos.
- A new beginning: For the exiles, the vision is a message of hope and a promise that God will give new life to His people.
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