Ezekiel 10:2
And he spake unto the man clothed with linen, and said, Go in between the wheels, even under the cherub, and fill thine hand with coals of fire from between the cherubims, and scatter them over the city. And he went in in my sight.
Ezekiel 10:2 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Ezekiel in the Bible is a powerful and symbolic message from God. In this passage, the man clothed in linen is instructed to go in between the wheels and under the cherub. The wheels and cherubim are significant symbols in the Hebrew Bible, representing elements of God's divine presence and power. The act of filling his hand with coals of fire from between the cherubim and scattering them over the city is a form of divine judgment. The city mentioned in this verse is likely a representation of a sinful and rebellious place that is deserving of punishment. By carrying out this act, the man clothed in linen is executing God's will and bringing about justice in the city. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the consequences of disobedience to his commands. It is a stark warning of the judgment that awaits those who stray from God's path.
Theological Overview
When exploring the theological interpretation of Ezekiel 10:2, it is important to consider the symbolism and imagery present in the text. The man clothed in linen, often referred to as an angel or messenger of God, is instructed to go between the wheels under the cherub and take coals of fire from between the cherubim to scatter them over the city. This action can be seen as a representation of judgment and purification. The coals of fire symbolize God's purifying presence and the act of scattering them over the city signifies the judgment that will come upon the people. The cherubim, often associated with the presence and glory of God, serve as intermediaries in this divine act. Overall, this verse highlights the importance of divine judgment and purification in the midst of rebellion and sin, showcasing God's authority and sovereignty over all creation.
Ezekiel 10:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he spake unto the man clothed in linen, and said, Go in between the whirling [wheels], even under the cherub, and fill both thy hands with coals of fire from between the cherubim, and scatter them over the city. And he went in in my sight.
World English Bible
He spoke to the man clothed in linen, and said, Go in between the whirling wheels, even under the cherub, and fill both your hands with coals of fire from between the cherubim, and scatter them over the city. He went in as I watched.
Douay-Rheims
And he spoke to the man, that was clothed with linen, and said: Go in between the wheels that are under the cherubims and fill thy hand with the coals of fire that are between the cherubims, and pour them out upon the city. And he went in, in my sight:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he spake vnto the man clothed with linen, and said, Go in betweene the wheeles, euen vnder the Cherub, and fill thine hands with coales of fire from betweene the Cherubims, and scatter the ouer the citie. And he went in in my sight.