King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 1:10 Mean?

As for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle.

Context

8

And they had the hands of a man under their wings on their four sides; and they four had their faces and their wings.

9

Their wings were joined one to another; they turned not when they went; they went every one straight forward.

10

As for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle.

11

Thus were their faces: and their wings were stretched upward; two wings of every one were joined one to another, and two covered their bodies. stretched: or, divided above

12

And they went every one straight forward: whither the spirit was to go, they went; and they turned not when they went.

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(10) **On the right side . . . on the left side.**—The apparent obscurity of this description is due only to the punctuation in the English Bible. “They four had the face of a man” (viz., in front, as Ezekiel viewed them), “and the face of a lion on the right side; and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle” (viz., on the back, or side opposite to Ezekiel). These faces are the same as those given to the living creatures in Revelation 4:7, except that there each creature had but one of them.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Ezekiel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Ezekiel 1:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Ezekiel 1:10

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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