One cherub on the end on this side, and another cherub on the other end on that side: out of the mercy seat made he the cherubims on the two ends thereof.

EXODUS 37:8KJV
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Exodus 37:8 (KJV)

What does Exodus 37:8 mean?

Exodus 37:8 describes how two cherubim (angelic figures) were made as part of the mercy seat, one on each end. The verse explains that these cherubim were crafted out of the same piece as the mercy seat itself, positioned at both ends.

This verse is part of the instructions being carried out for building the Ark of the Covenant, with Bezalel as the craftsman. The cherubim were not separate pieces attached later, but were formed as one continuous work with the mercy seat, highlighting the care and unity in the design. This detail emphasizes the importance and sacredness of the Ark’s construction in the context of Israel’s worship.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 37:8

  • כְּרוּב (keruv, "cherub"): This word refers to a type of angelic being. In this verse, the cherubim are not just decorations but are symbolic guardians of the mercy seat.
  • כַּפֹּרֶת (kapporet, "mercy seat"): This is the cover of the Ark, often understood as the place where God's presence would appear. The fact that the cherubim are made from the same piece as the kapporet underlines their close connection to this sacred space.
  • קָצֶה (qatseh, "end"): The use of this word shows the precise placement of each cherub—one on each end of the mercy seat, not randomly placed.
  • עָשָׂה (asah, "made"): This verb highlights that the cherubim were crafted as part of the mercy seat, not added separately, which points to the craftsmanship and unity of the entire piece.

Why Exodus 37:8 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the cherubim were an integral part of the mercy seat, not separate figures, which emphasizes the unity and intentionality of the Ark’s design.
  • Understanding the placement and construction of the cherubim helps explain the reverence and care taken in building the Ark, which was central to Israel’s worship and sense of God’s presence.
  • The verse connects to the broader passage by showing that the instructions God gave earlier in Exodus were followed exactly, highlighting obedience and faithfulness in sacred matters.