ESV Reformation Study Bible – Ex 25:18
Resources chevron-right ESV Reformation Study Bible chevron-right Exodus chevron-right Ex 25:18
Ex 25:18

25:18 cherubim. The cherubs were usually associated with the throne of the Lord as guardians or bearers of the throne (1 Sam. 4:4; Is. 37:16). In the pagan world cherubs were minor deities protective of palaces and temples; here they symbolize angelic guardians (Gen. 3:24). They were perhaps depicted as winged sphinxes (winged lions with human heads).