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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Exodus 25:20 And the cherubim are to have wings that spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat. The cherubim are to face each other, looking toward the mercy seat.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/exodus/25-20.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/2/02_Exo_25_20.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Exodus 25:20 - The Mercy Seat" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="And the cherubim are to have wings that spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat. The cherubim are to face each other, looking toward the mercy seat." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/exodus/25-20.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/exodus/25-20.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/exodus/">Exodus</a> > <a href="/exodus/25.htm">Chapter 25</a> > Verse 20</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad20.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/exodus/25-19.htm" title="Exodus 25:19">◄</a> Exodus 25:20 <a href="/exodus/25-21.htm" title="Exodus 25:21">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/exodus/25.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/exodus/25.htm">New International Version</a> The cherubim are to have their wings spread upward, overshadowing the cover with them. The cherubim are to face each other, looking toward the cover. <a href="/nlt/exodus/25.htm">New Living Translation</a> The cherubim will face each other and look down on the atonement cover. With their wings spread above it, they will protect it. <a href="/esv/exodus/25.htm">English Standard Version</a> The cherubim shall spread out their wings above, overshadowing the mercy seat with their wings, their faces one to another; toward the mercy seat shall the faces of the cherubim be. <a href="/bsb/exodus/25.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> And the cherubim are to have wings that spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat. The cherubim are to face each other, looking toward the mercy seat. <a href="/kjv/exodus/25.htm">King James Bible</a> And the cherubims shall stretch forth their wings on high, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and their faces shall look one to another; toward the mercy seat shall the faces of the cherubims be. <a href="/nkjv/exodus/25.htm">New King James Version</a> And the cherubim shall stretch out their wings above, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and they shall face one another; the faces of the cherubim shall be toward the mercy seat. <a href="/nasb_/exodus/25.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> And the cherubim shall have their wings spread upward, covering the atoning cover with their wings and facing one another; the faces of the cherubim are to be turned toward the atoning cover. <a href="/nasb/exodus/25.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8220The cherubim shall have their wings spread upward, covering the mercy seat with their wings and facing one another; the faces of the cherubim are to be turned toward the mercy seat. <a href="/nasb77/exodus/25.htm">NASB 1977 </a> “And the cherubim shall have their wings spread upward, covering the mercy seat with their wings and facing one another; the faces of the cherubim are to be turned toward the mercy seat. <a href="/lsb/exodus/25.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> The cherubim shall have their wings spread upward, covering the mercy seat with their wings, with their faces toward one another; the faces of the cherubim are to be toward the mercy seat. <a href="/amp/exodus/25.htm">Amplified Bible</a> The cherubim shall have their wings spread upward, covering the mercy seat with their wings and facing each other. The faces of the cherubim are to be looking downward toward the mercy seat. <a href="/csb/exodus/25.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> The cherubim are to have wings spread out above, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and are to face one another. The faces of the cherubim should be toward the mercy seat. <a href="/hcsb/exodus/25.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> The cherubim are to have wings spread out above, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and are to face one another. The faces of the cherubim should be toward the mercy seat. <a href="/asv/exodus/25.htm">American Standard Version</a> And the cherubim shall spread out their wings on high, covering the mercy-seat with their wings, with their faces one to another; toward the mercy-seat shall the faces of the cherubim be. <a href="/cev/exodus/25.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> The creatures must face each other with their wings spread over the chest. <a href="/erv/exodus/25.htm">English Revised Version</a> And the cherubim shall spread out their wings on high, covering the mercy-seat with their wings, with their faces one to another; toward the mercy-seat shall the faces of the cherubim be. <a href="/gwt/exodus/25.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> The angels should have their wings spread above the throne of mercy, overshadowing it. They should face each other, looking at the throne of mercy. <a href="/gnt/exodus/25.htm">Good News Translation</a> The winged creatures are to face each other across the lid, and their outspread wings are to cover it. <a href="/isv/exodus/25.htm">International Standard Version</a> The cherubim are to spread their wings upward, covering the Mercy Seat with their wings and facing each other. The faces of the cherubim is to be turned toward the Mercy Seat. <a href="/msb/exodus/25.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> And the cherubim are to have wings that spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat. The cherubim are to face each other, looking toward the mercy seat. <a href="/net/exodus/25.htm">NET Bible</a> The cherubim are to be spreading their wings upward, overshadowing the atonement lid with their wings, and the cherubim are to face each other, looking toward the atonement lid. <a href="/nheb/exodus/25.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> The cherubim shall spread out their wings upward, covering the mercy seat with their wings, with their faces toward one another. The faces of the cherubim shall be toward the mercy seat. <a href="/wbt/exodus/25.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And the cherubim shall stretch forth their wings on high, covering the mercy-seat with their wings, and their faces shall look one to another; towards the mercy-seat shall the faces of the cherubim be. <a href="/web/exodus/25.htm">World English Bible</a> The cherubim shall spread out their wings upward, covering the mercy seat with their wings, with their faces toward one another. The faces of the cherubim shall be toward the mercy seat. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/exodus/25.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And the cherubim have been spreading out wings on high, covering over the propitiatory covering with their wings, and their faces [are] toward one another—the faces of the cherubim are toward the propitiatory covering. <a href="/ylt/exodus/25.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And the cherubs have been spreading out wings on high, covering the mercy-seat over with their wings, and their faces are one towards another -- towards the mercy-seat are the faces of the cherubs. <a href="/slt/exodus/25.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And the cherubs shall be spreading their wings on high, covering with their wings over the cover; and their faces each to the other; to the cover shall be the faces of the cherubs.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/exodus/25.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Let them cover both sides of the propitiatory, spreading their wings, and covering the oracle, and let them look one towards the other, their faces being turned towards the propitiatory wherewith the ark is to be covered. <a href="/cpdv/exodus/25.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And let them cover both sides of the propitiatory, spreading their wings and covering the oracle, and let them look out toward one another, their faces being turned toward the propitiatory, with which the ark is to be covered, <a href="/nabre/exodus/25.htm">New American Bible</a> The cherubim shall have their wings spread out above, sheltering the cover with them; they shall face each other, with their faces looking toward the cover. <a href="/nrsvce/exodus/25.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> The cherubim shall spread out their wings above, overshadowing the mercy seat with their wings. They shall face one to another; the faces of the cherubim shall be turned toward the mercy seat.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/exodus/25.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And the cherubim shall spread forth their wings on high, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and their faces shall look one to another; toward the mercy seat shall the faces of the cherubim be. <a href="/hpbt/exodus/25.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And the Cherubim shall be extending their wings over and covering over the Mercy Seat with their wings, and their faces one against another; the faces of the Cherubim will be over the Mercy Seat.<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/exodus/25.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> And the cherubim shall spread out their wings on high, screening the ark-cover with their wings, with their faces one to another; toward the ark-cover shall the faces of the cherubim be. <a href="/sep/exodus/25.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> The cherubs shall stretch forth their wings above, overshadowing the propitiatory with their wings; and their faces shall be toward each other, the faces of the cherubs shall be toward the propitiatory. <a href="/parallel/exodus/25-20.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kVae3PiKqhs?start=6315" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/exodus/25.htm">The Mercy Seat</a> …19one cherub on one end and one on the other, all made from one piece of gold. 20<a href="/hebrew/3742.htm" title="3742: hak·kə·ru·ḇîm (Art:: N-mp) -- Probably an order of angelic beings. An angelic being.">And the cherubim</a> <a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: wə·hā·yū (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConjPerf-3cp) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass.">are to have</a> <a href="/hebrew/3671.htm" title="3671: ḵə·nā·p̄a·yim (N-fd) -- Wing, extremity. From kanaph; an edge or extremity; specifically a wing, a flap, a quarter, a pinnacle.">wings</a> <a href="/hebrew/6566.htm" title="6566: pō·rə·śê (V-Qal-Prtcpl-mpc) -- To spread out, spread. A primitive root; to break apart, disperse, etc.">that spread</a> <a href="/hebrew/4605.htm" title="4605: lə·ma‘·lāh (Prep-l:: Adv:: 3fs) -- From alah; properly, the upper part, used only adverbially with prefix upward, above, overhead, from the top, etc.">upward,</a> <a href="/hebrew/5526.htm" title="5526: sō·ḵə·ḵîm (V-Qal-Prtcpl-mp) -- Or sakak; a primitive root; properly, to entwine as a screen; by implication, to fence in, cover over, protect.">overshadowing</a> <a href="/hebrew/3727.htm" title="3727: hak·kap·pō·reṯ (Art:: N-fs) -- Propitiatory. From kaphar; a lid.">the mercy seat.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3671.htm" title="3671: bə·ḵan·p̄ê·hem (Prep-b:: N-fpc:: 3mp) -- Wing, extremity. From kanaph; an edge or extremity; specifically a wing, a flap, a quarter, a pinnacle."></a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications."></a> <a href="/hebrew/6440.htm" title="6440: ū·p̄ə·nê·hem (Conj-w:: N-mpc:: 3mp) -- Face, faces. Plural of an unused noun; the face; used in a great variety of applications; also as a preposition.">The cherubim are to face</a> <a href="/hebrew/376.htm" title="376: ’îš (N-ms) -- Man. Contracted for 'enowsh; a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term.">each</a> <a href="/hebrew/251.htm" title="251: ’ā·ḥîw (N-msc:: 3ms) -- A brother. A primitive word; a brother (like 'ab).">other,</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/6440.htm" title="6440: pə·nê (N-cpc) -- Face, faces. Plural of an unused noun; the face; used in a great variety of applications; also as a preposition."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3742.htm" title="3742: hak·kə·ru·ḇîm (Art:: N-mp) -- Probably an order of angelic beings. An angelic being."></a> <a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: yih·yū (V-Qal-Imperf-3mp) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass.">looking</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">toward</a> <a href="/hebrew/3727.htm" title="3727: hak·kap·pō·reṯ (Art:: N-fs) -- Propitiatory. From kaphar; a lid.">the mercy seat.</a> 21Set the mercy seat atop the ark, and put the Testimony that I will give you into the ark.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/hebrews/9-5.htm">Hebrews 9:5</a> Above the ark were the cherubim of glory, overshadowing the mercy seat. But we cannot discuss these things in detail now. <a href="/1_kings/8-7.htm">1 Kings 8:7</a> For the cherubim spread their wings over the place of the ark and overshadowed the ark and its poles. <a href="/1_chronicles/28-18.htm">1 Chronicles 28:18</a> the weight of the refined gold for the altar of incense; and the plans for the chariot of the gold cherubim that spread their wings and overshadowed the ark of the covenant of the LORD. <a href="/ezekiel/10-1.htm">Ezekiel 10:1-2</a> And I looked and saw above the expanse, above the heads of the cherubim, the likeness of a throne of sapphire. / And the LORD said to the man clothed in linen, “Go inside the wheelwork beneath the cherubim. Fill your hands with burning coals from among the cherubim and scatter them over the city.” And as I watched, he went in. <a href="/isaiah/6-2.htm">Isaiah 6:2</a> Above Him stood seraphim, each having six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. <a href="/revelation/4-6.htm">Revelation 4:6-8</a> And before the throne was something like a sea of glass, as clear as crystal. In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, covered with eyes in front and back. / The first living creature was like a lion, the second like a calf, the third had a face like a man, and the fourth was like an eagle in flight. / And each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around and within. Day and night they never stop saying: “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!” <a href="/numbers/7-89.htm">Numbers 7:89</a> When Moses entered the Tent of Meeting to speak with the LORD, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the mercy seat on the ark of the Testimony. Thus the LORD spoke to him. <a href="/psalms/80-1.htm">Psalm 80:1</a> For the choirmaster. To the tune of “The Lilies of the Covenant.” A Psalm of Asaph. Hear us, O Shepherd of Israel, who leads Joseph like a flock; You who sit enthroned between the cherubim, shine forth <a href="/2_samuel/6-2.htm">2 Samuel 6:2</a> And he and all his troops set out for Baale of Judah to bring up from there the ark of God, which is called by the Name—the name of the LORD of Hosts, who is enthroned between the cherubim that are on it. <a href="/1_samuel/4-4.htm">1 Samuel 4:4</a> So the people sent men to Shiloh, and they brought back the ark of the covenant of the LORD of Hosts, who sits enthroned between the cherubim. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were there with the ark of the covenant of God. <a href="/leviticus/16-2.htm">Leviticus 16:2</a> And the LORD said to Moses: “Tell your brother Aaron not to enter freely into the Most Holy Place behind the veil in front of the mercy seat on the ark, or else he will die, because I appear in the cloud above the mercy seat. <a href="/2_chronicles/5-7.htm">2 Chronicles 5:7-8</a> Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the LORD to its place in the inner sanctuary of the temple, the Most Holy Place, beneath the wings of the cherubim. / For the cherubim spread their wings over the place of the ark and overshadowed the ark and its poles. <a href="/ezekiel/1-5.htm">Ezekiel 1:5-11</a> and within it was the form of four living creatures. And this was their appearance: They had a human form, / but each had four faces and four wings. / Their legs were straight, and the soles of their feet were like the hooves of a calf, gleaming like polished bronze. ... <a href="/psalms/99-1.htm">Psalm 99:1</a> The LORD reigns; let the nations tremble! He is enthroned above the cherubim; let the earth quake! <a href="/john/20-12.htm">John 20:12</a> and she saw two angels in white sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and the other at the feet.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And the cherubim shall stretch forth their wings on high, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and their faces shall look one to another; toward the mercy seat shall the faces of the cherubim be.cherubims shall<a href="/exodus/25-18.htm">Exodus 25:18</a> And thou shalt make two cherubims of gold, of beaten work shalt thou make them, in the two ends of the mercy seat.<a href="/1_kings/8-7.htm">1 Kings 8:7</a> For the cherubims spread forth their two wings over the place of the ark, and the cherubims covered the ark and the staves thereof above.<a href="/1_chronicles/28-18.htm">1 Chronicles 28:18</a> And for the altar of incense refined gold by weight; and gold for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubims, that spread out their wings, and covered the ark of the covenant of the LORD.covering<a href="/ezekiel/28-14.htm">Ezekiel 28:14</a> Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire.toward<a href="/genesis/28-12.htm">Genesis 28:12</a> And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it.<a href="/isaiah/6-1.htm">Isaiah 6:1-5</a> In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple… <a href="/ezekiel/1-20.htm">Ezekiel 1:20</a> Whithersoever the spirit was to go, they went, thither was their spirit to go; and the wheels were lifted up over against them: for the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/exodus/25-19.htm">Ark-Cover</a> <a href="/exodus/25-19.htm">Cherubim</a> <a href="/exodus/25-19.htm">Cherubs</a> <a href="/exodus/25-19.htm">Cover</a> <a href="/exodus/22-27.htm">Covering</a> <a href="/exodus/23-28.htm">Face</a> <a href="/exodus/23-24.htm">Faces</a> <a href="/genesis/25-9.htm">Facing</a> <a href="/exodus/24-11.htm">Forth</a> <a href="/exodus/25-10.htm">High</a> <a href="/exodus/25-19.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/exodus/25-19.htm">Mercy-Seat</a> <a href="/exodus/25-19.htm">Ones</a> <a href="/exodus/14-2.htm">Opposite</a> <a href="/exodus/6-6.htm">Outstretched</a> <a href="/hebrews/9-5.htm">Overshadowing</a> <a href="/exodus/39-34.htm">Screening</a> <a href="/exodus/25-19.htm">Seat</a> <a href="/exodus/23-1.htm">Spread</a> <a href="/titus/1-1.htm">Spreading</a> <a href="/exodus/24-11.htm">Stretch</a> <a href="/exodus/16-10.htm">Towards</a> <a href="/exodus/25-15.htm">Turned</a> <a href="/genesis/7-20.htm">Upward</a> <a href="/exodus/25-19.htm">Winged</a> <a href="/exodus/19-4.htm">Wings</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/exodus/25-21.htm">Ark-Cover</a> <a href="/exodus/25-22.htm">Cherubim</a> <a href="/exodus/25-22.htm">Cherubs</a> <a href="/exodus/25-21.htm">Cover</a> <a href="/exodus/26-7.htm">Covering</a> <a href="/exodus/25-22.htm">Face</a> <a href="/exodus/33-10.htm">Faces</a> <a href="/exodus/37-9.htm">Facing</a> <a href="/exodus/29-46.htm">Forth</a> <a href="/exodus/25-23.htm">High</a> <a href="/exodus/25-21.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/exodus/25-21.htm">Mercy-Seat</a> <a href="/exodus/25-22.htm">Ones</a> <a href="/exodus/26-5.htm">Opposite</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/4-34.htm">Outstretched</a> <a href="/exodus/37-9.htm">Overshadowing</a> <a href="/exodus/37-9.htm">Screening</a> <a href="/exodus/25-21.htm">Seat</a> <a href="/exodus/26-12.htm">Spread</a> <a href="/exodus/37-9.htm">Spreading</a> <a href="/exodus/39-9.htm">Stretch</a> <a href="/exodus/26-35.htm">Towards</a> <a href="/exodus/28-11.htm">Turned</a> <a href="/exodus/30-14.htm">Upward</a> <a href="/exodus/25-22.htm">Winged</a> <a href="/exodus/37-9.htm">Wings</a><div class="vheading2">Exodus 25</div>1. <a href="/exodus/25-1.htm">What the Israelites were to offer for the building of the tabernacle</a> 10. <a href="/exodus/25-10.htm">The dimensions of the ark</a> 17. <a href="/exodus/25-17.htm">The mercy seat, with the cherubim</a> 23. <a href="/exodus/25-23.htm">The table of show bread, with the furniture thereof</a> 31. <a href="/exodus/25-31.htm">The golden candlestick, with the instruments thereof</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/exodus/25.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/exodus/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/exodus/25.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>And the cherubim are to have wings that spread upward The cherubim, angelic beings often associated with the presence of God, are depicted with wings that spread upward, symbolizing their readiness to serve and their connection to the divine. In biblical context, cherubim are guardians of sacred spaces, as seen in <a href="/genesis/3-24.htm">Genesis 3:24</a>, where they guard the way to the Tree of Life. The upward spread of their wings signifies their role in elevating the holiness of the Ark of the Covenant, which they are commanded to protect. This imagery also reflects the heavenly nature of the cherubim, as they are often seen in visions of God's throne, such as in <a href="/ezekiel/1-5.htm">Ezekiel 1:5-11</a>.overshadowing the mercy seat The mercy seat, or "kapporet" in Hebrew, is the cover of the Ark of the Covenant and represents the throne of God on earth. The cherubim's wings overshadowing the mercy seat indicate God's presence and protection over His covenant with Israel. This imagery is significant in the Day of Atonement rituals described in <a href="/leviticus/16.htm">Leviticus 16</a>, where the high priest would sprinkle blood on the mercy seat to atone for the sins of the people, symbolizing God's mercy and forgiveness. The overshadowing wings also prefigure the New Testament concept of God's grace through Jesus Christ, who is seen as the ultimate mercy seat (<a href="/romans/3-25.htm">Romans 3:25</a>), offering atonement for humanity's sins.The cherubim are to face each other The positioning of the cherubim facing each other emphasizes unity and harmony in the divine presence. This arrangement suggests a continuous watchfulness and readiness to serve God, reflecting the cherubim's role as guardians of His holiness. The facing cherubim also symbolize the relational aspect of God's covenant, as they are positioned over the mercy seat where God would meet with Moses (<a href="/exodus/25-22.htm">Exodus 25:22</a>). This face-to-face orientation can be seen as a type of the intimate relationship between God and His people, which is fulfilled in the New Testament through the person of Jesus Christ, who reconciles humanity to God.looking toward the mercy seat The cherubim's gaze toward the mercy seat signifies their focus on God's presence and the centrality of His mercy in the covenant relationship with Israel. This focus highlights the importance of the mercy seat as the place where God would communicate with His people, as described in <a href="/exodus/25-22.htm">Exodus 25:22</a>. The cherubim's attention to the mercy seat underscores the theme of divine mercy and judgment, as the mercy seat is both a place of atonement and a symbol of God's righteous rule. In Christian theology, this foreshadows the role of Jesus Christ as the mediator between God and humanity, who embodies God's mercy and provides access to His presence (<a href="/hebrews/9-11.htm">Hebrews 9:11-12</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/c/cherubim.htm">Cherubim</a> Angelic beings often associated with the presence of God. In the context of the Ark of the Covenant, they symbolize divine guardianship and the holiness of God. 2. <a href="/topical/m/mercy_seat.htm">Mercy Seat</a> The cover of the Ark of the Covenant, representing God's throne on earth and His presence among His people. It is the place where God would meet with Moses and the high priest on the Day of Atonement. 3. <a href="/topical/a/ark_of_the_covenant.htm">Ark of the Covenant</a> A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's covenant with Israel. It was central to Israel's worship and symbolized God's presence and law. 4. <a href="/topical/t/tabernacle.htm">Tabernacle</a> The portable sanctuary where the Ark was housed, serving as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. 5. <a href="/topical/m/moses.htm">Moses</a> The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for building the Tabernacle and the Ark, including the design of the cherubim and the mercy seat.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/g/god's_holiness_and_presence.htm">God's Holiness and Presence</a> The design of the cherubim and the mercy seat underscores the holiness of God and His desire to dwell among His people. We are reminded to approach God with reverence and awe. <a href="/topical/s/symbolism_of_the_mercy_seat.htm">Symbolism of the Mercy Seat</a> The mercy seat represents God's throne of grace. In Christ, we find the ultimate mercy seat, where we can approach God with confidence, knowing that our sins are atoned for. <a href="/topical/r/role_of_angels.htm">Role of Angels</a> The cherubim remind us of the role of angels as messengers and protectors in God's divine plan. They serve as a reminder of the spiritual realities that surround us. <a href="/topical/w/worship_and_obedience.htm">Worship and Obedience</a> The detailed instructions for the construction of the Ark and its components highlight the importance of obedience in worship. God desires that we follow His commands with precision and devotion. <a href="/topical/c/christ_as_the_fulfillment.htm">Christ as the Fulfillment</a> The mercy seat points forward to Jesus Christ, who is our propitiation and the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity. In Him, we find forgiveness and reconciliation.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_exodus_25.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Exodus 25</a> <a href="/q/how_does_ezekiel_10's_imagery_relate_to_babylon.htm">How does the intricate temple imagery in Ezekiel 10 relate to known architecture and practices during the Babylonian captivity? </a> <a href="/q/how_were_two_cherubim_crafted_from_gold.htm">Exodus 25:18 – How did artisans of that time feasibly design and craft two intricate cherubim from a single piece of hammered gold? </a> <a href="/q/what_are_cherubim_in_religion.htm">What are cherubim in religious or mythological contexts?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'healing_in_his_wings'_mean.htm">What does "Healing in His Wings" signify?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/exodus/25.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(20) The cherubims shall stretch forth their wings on high.--The two wings of both cherubs were to be elevated and advanced so as to overshadow the mercy seat, and, as it were, protect it. In the Egyptian figures of Ma, one wing only has this position, the other being depressed and falling behind the figure.Towards the mercy seat.--Bent downwards, i.e., as though gazing on the mercy seat. (Compare <a href="/exodus/37-9.htm" title="And the cherubim spread out their wings on high, and covered with their wings over the mercy seat, with their faces one to another; even to the mercy seat were the faces of the cherubim.">Exodus 37:9</a>).<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/exodus/25.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 20. - The cherubims shall stretch forth their wings on high. Compare <a href="/exodus/37-9.htm">Exodus 37:9</a>. It would seem that the two wings of both cherubs were advanced in front of them, and elevated, so as to overshadow the mercy seat. This was a departure from the patterns furnished by the figures of Ma (see the comment on ver. 18), since in them one wing only was elevated, and the other depressed. It is clear that in no case was any part of the Hebrew sacred furniture a mere reproduction of Egyptian models. Whatever was made use of was so transformed or modified as to acquire a new and independent character. Their faces, etc. The words are not without difficulty; but the generally received meaning appears to be correct that the faces were bent one towards the other, but that both looked downwards, towards the mercy seat. Thus the figures, whether they were standing or kneeling, which is uncertain, presented the appearance of guardian angels, who watched over the precious deposit below - to wit, the two tables. <a href="/commentaries/exodus/25-20.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>The cherubim הַכְּרֻבִים֩ (hak·kə·ru·ḇîm) Article | Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3742.htm">Strong's 3742: </a> Probably an order of angelic beings are to have וְהָי֣וּ (wə·hā·yū) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1961.htm">Strong's 1961: </a> To fall out, come to pass, become, be wings כְנָפַ֜יִם (ḵə·nā·p̄a·yim) Noun - fd <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3671.htm">Strong's 3671: </a> An edge, extremity, a wing, a flap, a quarter, a pinnacle spread פֹּרְשֵׂ֨י (pō·rə·śê) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6566.htm">Strong's 6566: </a> To break apart, disperse upward, לְמַ֗עְלָה (lə·ma‘·lāh) Preposition-l | Adverb | third person feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4605.htm">Strong's 4605: </a> The upper part, with prefix upward, above, overhead, from the top overshadowing סֹכְכִ֤ים (sō·ḵə·ḵîm) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5526.htm">Strong's 5526: </a> To entwine as a, screen, to fence in, cover over, protect the mercy seat, הַכַּפֹּ֔רֶת (hak·kap·pō·reṯ) Article | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3727.htm">Strong's 3727: </a> Propitiatory and they are to face וּפְנֵיהֶ֖ם (ū·p̄ə·nê·hem) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6440.htm">Strong's 6440: </a> The face one אִ֣ישׁ (’îš) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_376.htm">Strong's 376: </a> A man as an individual, a male person another. אָחִ֑יו (’ā·ḥîw) Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_251.htm">Strong's 251: </a> A brother, ) The faces פְּנֵ֥י (pə·nê) Noun - common plural construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6440.htm">Strong's 6440: </a> The face of the cherubim הַכְּרֻבִֽים׃ (hak·kə·ru·ḇîm) Article | Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3742.htm">Strong's 3742: </a> Probably an order of angelic beings should look יִהְי֖וּ (yih·yū) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1961.htm">Strong's 1961: </a> To fall out, come to pass, become, be toward אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to the mercy seat. הַכַּפֹּ֔רֶת (hak·kap·pō·reṯ) Article | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3727.htm">Strong's 3727: </a> Propitiatory <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/exodus/25-20.htm">Exodus 25:20 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/exodus/25-20.htm">Exodus 25:20 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/exodus/25-20.htm">Exodus 25:20 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/exodus/25-20.htm">Exodus 25:20 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/exodus/25-20.htm">Exodus 25:20 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/exodus/25-20.htm">Exodus 25:20 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/exodus/25-20.htm">Exodus 25:20 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/exodus/25-20.htm">Exodus 25:20 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/exodus/25-20.htm">Exodus 25:20 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/exodus/25-20.htm">Exodus 25:20 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/exodus/25-20.htm">OT Law: Exodus 25:20 The cherubim shall spread out their wings (Exo. Ex) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/exodus/25-19.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Exodus 25:19"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Exodus 25:19" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/exodus/25-21.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Exodus 25:21"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Exodus 25:21" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>