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Ezekiel 10:22

And the likeness of their faces was the same faces which I saw by the river of Chebar, their appearances and themselves: they went every one straight forward.

Ezekiel 10:22 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the prophet Ezekiel describes a vision he had of four living creatures with the likeness of human faces by the river of Chebar. These beings were awe-inspiring in appearance, with each having four faces: the face of a human, a lion, an ox, and an eagle. Despite their unique appearances, Ezekiel notes that the faces of these creatures were the same ones he had seen by the river of Chebar. The creatures moved in unison, following a straight path without turning as they carried out the will of God. This vision is often interpreted as symbolic of the divine presence and power of God, as well as the steadfastness and unwavering nature of His will. The emphasis on the creatures moving straight forward underscores the idea of following God's path without deviation or hesitation. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying faithful and obedient to God's guidance in our lives.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the prophet Ezekiel describes a vision he had of four living creatures that appeared to him by the river of Chebar. These creatures had faces resembling that of a human, a lion, an ox, and an eagle. The theological interpretation of these beings is that they represent the various aspects of God's creation. The human face symbolizes mankind, the lion signifies strength and power, the ox represents service and sacrifice, and the eagle embodies swiftness and transcendence. These living creatures were not mere beasts but were described as having a spiritual presence as they moved in a synchronized and purposeful manner, each going straight forward. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the divine order and harmony in God's creation, with every aspect fulfilling its role and moving in accordance with God's will. The uniformity of their faces and the unity in their movement suggest a sense of divine perfection and order. Overall, this vision serves to remind believers of the majesty and sovereignty of God over all creation.

Ezekiel 10:22 in other translations

American Standard Version

And as for the likeness of their faces, they were the faces which I saw by the river Chebar, their appearances and themselves; they went every one straight forward.

World English Bible

As for the likeness of their faces, they were the faces which I saw by the river Chebar, their appearances and themselves; they went every one straight forward.

Douay-Rheims

And as to the likeness of their faces, they were the same faces which I had seen by the river Chobar, and their looks, and the impulse of every one to go straight forward.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And the likenesse of their faces was the selfe same faces, which I sawe by the riuer Chebar, and the appearance of the Cherubims was ye selfe same, and they went euery one straight forwarde.