Expert: Rev C.Brian Ross - 4/18/2009

Question
please i want to know about the cherubim and the ophanim, what kind of roll are there playing in heaven and earth.

Answer
Hello Isaac, and thank you for your interesting question.

I will start with the cherubim.  This is the plural of cherub - the name given to a symbolic figure mentioned frquently in the Old Testament, but hardly at all in the New Testament.  The first mention is at the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden after the Fall, when cherubim (and an animated flaming sword) were set to guard the way to the Tree of Life. (Gen.3:24) Another important reference is to the Ark of the Covenant and its lid - the Mercy Seat, which had two cherubim overshadowing it.  The only New Testament reference is in Heb.9:5 where the author is describing the Ark. (Ex.25:18)  Cherubim were also woven into the Veil of the Tabernacle (Ex.6:31, and see v.1).  They are seen as forming the throne of God (Ps.99:1; Is.37:16; etc), and are an important aspect of the vision of Ezekiel (Ez.10:1ff).

These cherubim are, I would suggest, representations of spiritual beings who are in immediate contact with YHWH (the LORD).  As such, I do not believe that they have any specific role on earth, unlike angels, who are entertained - unawares (Heb.13:2), and who are sent to serve, for the sake of those who are to obtain salvation (Heb.1:14).  In heaven, the cherubim seem to be ministering only YHWH.

The ophanim are a different matter altogether as they are not named in the canonical Scriptures at all.  The only references to them, of which I am aware, are in the Apocryphal (inter-testamental) books that are not accepted as the inspired Word of God by either Jews or Reformed Christians.  As I have no particular knowledge of these books, I am not in a position to make any meaningful comment, but hope that you maight receive some help from someone else.

May I make a final point?  Whilst it may be of interest to learn about these creatures, it is more important that we have a personal relationship with their (and our) Creator. This is only possible through the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus (God the Son), and an acceptance that He alone is the way to the Father.  On the doctrine of the Trinity, may I commend my audio blog site at www.revcbross.blogspot.com  There you will find a message on The Trinity that should only take about twenty-two minutes to listen to.

Blessings

C.Brian Ross (Rev)