Cherubim have been a part of various mythologies and religious beliefs for centuries. These mythical creatures are often depicted as winged beings with human, animal, or bird-like characteristics. They are believed to be celestial beings that serve important liturgical and intercessory functions in the hierarchy of angels.
The word “cherub” is believed to have originated from the Assyrian word “karabu” which means “to bless”. In Jewish, Christian, and Islamic literature, cherubim are known as celestial winged beings who function as a throne bearer of the Deity. They are often depicted as being close to God and glorifying Him while doing His will.
Throughout history, cherubim have been represented in various forms of art and literature. They have been depicted in paintings, sculptures, and even in architecture. The origin of the word “cherubim” is still debated by scholars, but their importance in religious and mythological beliefs cannot be denied.
Origins of Cherubim
Ancient Mesopotamia
Cherubim, or Karibu in Akkadian, were divine beings in the ancient mythology of Mesopotamia. The word Karibu means “to bless,” which suggests that the cherubim were associated with good fortune and prosperity. In Mesopotamian mythology, the cherubim were depicted as winged creatures with the body of a lion and the head of a human. They were believed to guard the entrances to temples and palaces, and were often depicted in reliefs and sculptures.
Hebrew Scriptures
In the Hebrew scriptures, the cherubim were also depicted as winged creatures, but with a different appearance. They were described as having the body of a lion, the wings of an eagle, the face of a human, and the feet of a calf. The cherubim were believed to be guardians of the Garden of Eden and the Ark of the Covenant. They were also said to have been present in the Temple of Solomon, where they guarded the Holy of Holies.
The origins of the cherubim are shrouded in mystery, but it is clear that they played an important role in the mythology and religion of ancient Mesopotamia and Hebrew scriptures. The cherubim were believed to be divine beings who guarded and protected sacred places and objects, and were associated with good fortune and prosperity.
Symbolism and Roles
Guardianship
Cherubim are often portrayed as guardians of holy places, such as the Garden of Eden and the Ark of the Covenant. They are believed to have the ability to protect and defend sacred objects and spaces. In the Bible, they were stationed at the east of the Garden of Eden, armed with a flaming sword to prevent Adam and Eve from returning.
Divine Presence
Cherubim are also closely associated with the presence of God. They are believed to be divine beings who dwell in the heavenly realm of the gods, either as servants or mediators between humans and the divine. According to the Bible, they were present in the Tabernacle and the Temple of Jerusalem, where they were believed to be a visible manifestation of God’s glory.
Artistic Representations
Throughout history, cherubim have been depicted in various forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, and literature. They are often portrayed as winged creatures with human or animal-like features, such as a lion or an eagle. In Christian art, they are often depicted as chubby, winged infants with rosy cheeks and curly hair. Cherubim have also been used as symbols in various cultures, representing different aspects of divinity, such as holiness, might, and transcendence.
Cultural Impact
Religious Art
Cherubim have been an essential part of religious art throughout history. In Christianity, they are often depicted as winged infants or children with chubby cheeks and curly hair. They are also shown as having four faces, each representing a different aspect of God. In Jewish art, they are depicted as having four wings and four faces. Cherubim are often portrayed as guardians of holy places and objects, such as the Ark of the Covenant.
Literature
Cherubim are also a common theme in literature. They are often portrayed as powerful and majestic beings who are close to God. In John Milton’s epic poem “Paradise Lost,” Cherubim are described as having “feathered mail” and “clanging armor.” They are also depicted as having a deep understanding of the mysteries of the universe.
Popular Culture
Cherubim have also made their way into popular culture. They have been featured in movies, television shows, and video games. In the popular anime series “Neon Genesis Evangelion,” the main character pilots a giant mecha called an Evangelion, which is powered by the soul of a Cherubim. In the video game “Devil May Cry,” the main character Dante battles a group of Cherubim who have been corrupted by demonic forces.
Overall, Cherubim have had a significant impact on culture and continue to be a popular theme in art, literature, and popular culture.
Cherubim in Theology
Christian Interpretations
In Christian theology, cherubim are typically depicted as powerful and holy beings that serve as guardians of God’s throne and protectors of the faithful. They are often associated with the concept of divine love, and are sometimes depicted as holding flaming swords to symbolize their role as defenders of God’s justice and righteousness. Cherubim are mentioned several times in the Bible, including in the book of Genesis, where they are described as guarding the entrance to the Garden of Eden.
Jewish Perspectives
In Jewish theology, cherubim are also seen as powerful and holy beings, but they are often associated with the concept of wisdom. They are sometimes depicted as having multiple faces, each representing a different aspect of God’s wisdom. In the Jewish tradition, cherubim are also associated with the Ark of the Covenant, which was said to be guarded by two golden cherubim with outstretched wings.
Comparative Mythology
Cherubim are not unique to the Abrahamic religions, and similar beings can be found in other mythologies from around the world. For example, in ancient Mesopotamian mythology, there were beings known as karibu, which were similar to cherubim in their role as guardians of the divine realm. Similarly, in ancient Egyptian mythology, there were beings known as akhkhazu, which were depicted as winged creatures with human faces and the bodies of lions or bulls. Despite these similarities, however, the exact nature and role of cherubim varies depending on the specific cultural and religious context in which they are found.
Historical Depictions
Renaissance Art
In Renaissance art, cherubim were often depicted as cute, chubby, winged babies with rosy cheeks and curly hair. These depictions were inspired by the classical art of ancient Greece and Rome, which often featured similar winged figures known as putti. Renaissance artists such as Raphael and Michelangelo often included cherubim in their paintings and sculptures, using them as symbols of innocence, purity, and divine love.
Medieval Iconography
In medieval Christian iconography, cherubim were depicted as powerful and majestic beings with multiple wings, eyes, and faces. These depictions were inspired by the descriptions of cherubim in the Bible, which describe them as fierce guardians of God’s throne. In medieval art, cherubim were often depicted alongside other celestial beings such as seraphim and thrones, forming part of the hierarchy of angels. These depictions were intended to inspire awe and reverence in the viewer, emphasizing the power and majesty of God’s heavenly court.
Modern Interpretations
New Age Movements
In modern times, the Cherubim have been interpreted in various ways, particularly by New Age movements. Some New Age practitioners believe that the Cherubim are angelic beings that can be invoked for spiritual guidance and protection. They are often associated with the element of air and are believed to help individuals connect with the divine.
Contemporary Art
The Cherubim have also been a popular subject in contemporary art. Many artists have depicted the Cherubim as winged creatures with human faces, often in a playful or whimsical manner. Some artists have also explored the darker side of the Cherubim, depicting them as fierce and menacing creatures.
Overall, the Cherubim remain a fascinating and mysterious creature that continues to capture the imagination of people across the world. Whether viewed as divine beings, symbols of power, or simply as mythical creatures, the Cherubim continue to inspire and intrigue people of all ages and backgrounds.