Exodus 37:7 - He made two cherubim of gold. He made them of beaten work, at the two ends of the mercy seat;
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What does "Exodus 37:7" mean?
Exodus 37:7 describes the creation of two cherubim (plural of cherub) as part of the construction of the Ark of the Covenant. Let's break down the verse:
"He made two cherubim of gold": This refers to Bezalel, the craftsman appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. He fashioned two figures of cherubim, heavenly beings, out of gold.
"He made them of beaten work": This indicates the method of creation. The gold was hammered or beaten into shape rather than cast. This "beaten work" (also called "hammered work") would have required great skill and precision. This likely means the gold was very thin and carefully shaped to create the figures.
"at the two ends of the mercy seat": The "mercy seat" (also called the "atonement cover") was the lid of the Ark of the Covenant. The cherubim were positioned at either end of this lid, facing each other. Their wings were spread upwards, likely arching over the mercy seat.
Significance and Interpretation:
Cherubim as Guardians: Cherubim are often associated with guarding sacred spaces or divine presence. Their presence on the Ark, the holiest object for the Israelites, reinforces the sanctity and inviolability of the Ark.
Symbolism of God's Throne: Some interpretations suggest that the Ark of the Covenant, with the mercy seat and the cherubim, served as a symbolic throne for God. The mercy seat represented the place where God's presence was uniquely manifested.
Atonement and Mercy: The term "mercy seat" highlights the concept of atonement. It was upon this lid that the High Priest would sprinkle the blood of sacrifices on the Day of Atonement, symbolizing the covering of sins. The cherubim, looking down upon this act, could be seen as witnesses to God's mercy and forgiveness.
Craftsmanship and Reverence: The verse emphasizes the skill and artistry involved in creating these sacred objects. The use of precious gold and the "beaten work" method reflect the Israelites' commitment to offering their best to God. The construction of the Tabernacle was not just a functional endeavor but also an act of worship and reverence.
Exodus 37:7 - He made two cherubim of gold. He made them of beaten work, at the two ends of the mercy seat;
What does "Exodus 37:7" mean?
Exodus 37:7 describes the creation of two cherubim (plural of cherub) as part of the construction of the Ark of the Covenant. Let's break down the verse:
"He made two cherubim of gold": This refers to Bezalel, the craftsman appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. He fashioned two figures of cherubim, heavenly beings, out of gold.
"He made them of beaten work": This indicates the method of creation. The gold was hammered or beaten into shape rather than cast. This "beaten work" (also called "hammered work") would have required great skill and precision. This likely means the gold was very thin and carefully shaped to create the figures.
"at the two ends of the mercy seat": The "mercy seat" (also called the "atonement cover") was the lid of the Ark of the Covenant. The cherubim were positioned at either end of this lid, facing each other. Their wings were spread upwards, likely arching over the mercy seat.
Significance and Interpretation:
Cherubim as Guardians: Cherubim are often associated with guarding sacred spaces or divine presence. Their presence on the Ark, the holiest object for the Israelites, reinforces the sanctity and inviolability of the Ark.
Symbolism of God's Throne: Some interpretations suggest that the Ark of the Covenant, with the mercy seat and the cherubim, served as a symbolic throne for God. The mercy seat represented the place where God's presence was uniquely manifested.
Atonement and Mercy: The term "mercy seat" highlights the concept of atonement. It was upon this lid that the High Priest would sprinkle the blood of sacrifices on the Day of Atonement, symbolizing the covering of sins. The cherubim, looking down upon this act, could be seen as witnesses to God's mercy and forgiveness.
Craftsmanship and Reverence: The verse emphasizes the skill and artistry involved in creating these sacred objects. The use of precious gold and the "beaten work" method reflect the Israelites' commitment to offering their best to God. The construction of the Tabernacle was not just a functional endeavor but also an act of worship and reverence.