The Cherubim Veil

Gen 3:24

24 So He drove out the man; and He placed cherubim at the east of the garden of Eden, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life.

The fall of man, as depicted in biblical narratives, marks a profound turning point in human history, signifying the moment when the innocence of creation was shattered by disobedience. Cherubim were placed at the east gate of the Garden of Eden as a divine measure to protect the sanctity of paradise after humanity's disobedience. Their imposing presence served to guard the way to the Tree of Life, ensuring that Adam and Eve, having eaten from the Tree of Knowledge, could not re-enter and access eternal life in their fallen state. This act symbolized not only God's justice in response to sin but also His mercy, as it prevented humanity from living eternally estranged from Him. Thus, the cherubim's role was both a warning and a safeguard, marking a pivotal moment in the relationship between God and humankind.

This act, rooted in the temptation to attain knowledge apart from His Divine will, also led to the loss of paradise—a once harmonious existence characterized by an intimate relationship between humanity and God. The cherubim, with their flaming swords, turned in every direction to form an impenetrable barrier around the presence of God. This divine barrier served as a protective shield, warding off evil and sin, ensuring that fallen humanity cannot access the sanctity of His holiness. As a result, mankind found itself separated from the Holy, encountering a reality fraught with sin and alienation. This division underscores the ongoing struggle between the unholy and the Holy, a dynamic that reverberates throughout human experience, reflecting the deep yearning for reconciliation and restoration to the divine presence that was forfeited in that fateful moment in the Garden . And what of this barrier that guards against the corruption that lurks in the shadows of the human heart?

The temple veil served as a powerful symbol and example of the separation between God and man in ancient Israelite worship. This heavy curtain, which hung in the innermost part of the temple, restricted access to the Holy of Holies, the dwelling place of God's presence. It was a stunningly crafted piece, made of fine linen and intricately woven with blue, purple, and scarlet threads, adorned with cherubic (cherubim) designs (Exodus 26:31). It was not only a physical barrier but also a symbol of the separation between the holy of holies and the outer sanctum, representing the sacredness of God's dwelling place. Measuring approximately 60 feet in height and 30 feet in width, it was heavy and thick, designed to block the sight of the sacred Ark of the Covenant from all but the high priest, who could enter only once a year on the Day of Atonement. Its presence underscored the holiness of God and the flawed nature of humanity, indicating that while God desired a relationship with His people, their sinfulness created a barrier that could not be crossed. And why is this important?

A supernational event occurred when Jesus was crucified and died. The temple veil was torn in two from top to bottom, symbolizing the profound shift in the relationship between God and humanity. This symbolic shift represented the embodiment of Jesus passing through the torn veil of the cherubim with flaming swords. And to pass through a flaming sword would mean death. And where was he heading? To paradise, while breaking the barrier of separation between God and man. This act of divine intervention rendered the sacred separation between the holy of holies and the outer sanctuary obsolete, allowing direct access to God for all believers. This moment marked the culmination of the sacrificial system, emphasizing that faith in Jesus bridged the gap once guarded by the veil, making way for a new covenant grounded in grace and reconciliation.

Prayerful Thought….

51 And behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth shook and the rocks were split. Matthew 27:51

And Remember…….

“Imagine reading a book with no way to turn back the page. How carefully would you read it? That’s life! ”

“May the peace and grace of the Lord always be with you” - Dr Lee