Ezekiel 9:3
And the glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon he was, to the threshold of the house. And he called to the man clothed with linen, which had the writer's inkhorn by his side;
Ezekiel 9:3 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse 'And the glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon he was, to the threshold of the house. And he called to the man clothed with linen, which had the writer's inkhorn by his side;' from the book of Ezekiel Chapter 9, describes a significant moment in which the prophet Ezekiel witnesses the departure of God's glory from the cherub to the threshold of the house. This transition symbolizes a shift in divine presence and communication. The man clothed in linen, carrying an inkhorn, is called upon by God, signifying a task or assignment to be fulfilled. The imagery of the inkhorn signifies the recording of events and messages, indicating the importance of documenting spiritual revelations and teachings. Overall, this verse highlights the power and authority of God, as well as the responsibility placed upon individuals to carry out His will and communicate His message to others.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the theological interpretation centers around the concept of the glory of the God of Israel moving from one place to another. This movement symbolizes God's presence and authority being manifested in a specific location. The image of the cherub is significant in biblical symbolism, representing the divine presence and protection. The mention of the man clothed with linen and the writer's inkhorn adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the importance of writing and recording God's messages. The act of calling this man signifies a divine commission to convey a specific message or perform a certain task. Through this verse, we can see themes of divine presence, communication, and authority at play, underscoring the intricate relationship between God and his chosen messengers.
Ezekiel 9:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon it was, to the threshold of the house: and he called to the man clothed in linen, who had the writer's inkhorn by his side.
World English Bible
The glory of the God of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon it was, to the threshold of the house: and he called to the man clothed in linen, who had the writer’s inkhorn by his side.
Douay-Rheims
And the glory of the Lord of Israel went up from the cherub, upon which he was, to the threshold of the house: and he called to the man that was clothed with linen, and had a writer's inkhorn at his loins.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the glorie of the God of Israel was gone vp from ye Cherub, whereupon he was and stoode on the doore of the house, and he called to the man clothed with linnen, which had the writers ynkhorne by his side.