The Vision of God's Glory and the Living Creatures
Ezekiel 1:1-28
1
In the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, on the fifth day of the month — while I was among the exiles beside the Kebar River — the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of the LORD.
Eze.1.1 - Details
Translation
In the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, on the fifth day of the month — while I was among the exiles beside the Kebar River — the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of the LORD.
Original Text
ויהי ׀ בשלשים שנה ברביעי בחמשה לחדש ואני בתוך־ הגולה על־ נהר־ כבר נפתחו השמים ואראה מראות אלהים׃
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- בשלשים: PREP+NUM,m,pl,abs
- שנה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ברביעי: PREP+ORD,m,sg,abs
- בחמשה: PREP+NUM,m,pl
- לחדש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואני: PRON,1,sg
- בתוך: PREP
- הגולה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- על: PREP
- נהר: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- כבר: ADV
- נפתחו: VERB,niphal,perf,3,m,pl
- השמים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ואראה: VERB,qal,imperfect,1,com,sg
- מראות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- אלהים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- Isaiah 6:1-4 (thematic): A prophetic theophany: Isaiah's vision of the LORD on His throne with attendant heavenly phenomena, paralleling Ezekiel's opening narrative of a divine vision.
- Daniel 7:13-14 (thematic): Apocalyptic visionary material dated to a king's reign: Daniel's throne/son-of-man vision shares the genre, heavenly court imagery, and revelatory function with Ezekiel's inaugural vision.
- Revelation 4:1 (structural): A heavenly-opening motif introducing a vision of God's throne; John is summoned through an open door in heaven, echoing the structural function of heaven-opening that launches Ezekiel's visionary sequence.
- Acts 7:55-56 (verbal): Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, sees 'the heavens opened' and the glory of God—using the same language of heaven-opened to describe a revelatory glimpse of divine glory.
- Acts 10:11 (verbal): Peter's trance vision begins with 'the heavens opened' and a sheet coming down—another NT occurrence of the phrase that linguistically and thematically parallels Ezekiel's opening statement.
Alternative generated candidates
- In the thirtieth year, on the fifth day of the fourth month, while I was among the exiles by the Chebar canal, the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God.
- And it came to pass in the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, on the fifth day of the month—while I was among the exiles by the River Chebar—that the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God.
2
It was the fifth day of the month; it was the fifth year of the exile of King Jehoiachin.
Eze.1.2 - Details
Translation
It was the fifth day of the month; it was the fifth year of the exile of King Jehoiachin.
Original Text
בחמשה לחדש היא השנה החמישית לגלות המלך יויכין׃
Morphology
- בחמשה: PREP+NUM,m,pl
- לחדש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- היא: PRON,dem,3,f,sg
- השנה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- החמישית: NUM,ord,f,sg,def
- לגלות: VERB,qal,inf
- המלך: NOUN,m,sg,def
- יויכין: PN,m,sg
Parallels
- 2 Kings 24:8-12 (thematic): Narrates the capture and exile of King Jehoiachin to Babylon—this event is the reference point for Ezekiel’s dating (“the exile of King Jehoiachin”).
- 2 Chronicles 36:9-10 (thematic): Summarizes Jehoiachin’s removal to Babylon and the transfer of power—parallels the historical circumstance behind Ezekiel’s chronological marker.
- Jeremiah 52:31 (thematic): Gives a chronological note about Jehoiachin (his release in the 37th year of exile), providing a complementary chronological anchor for events dated by Jehoiachin’s exile in Ezekiel.
- Ezekiel 8:1 (structural): Uses the same calendrical dating formula (“in the X year, in the Y month, in the Z day”) for another vision, showing Ezekiel’s consistent practice of dating visions by years/months/days tied to the exile era.
Alternative generated candidates
- It was the fifth day of the month; it was the fifth year of the exile of King Jehoiachin.
- It was the fifth day of the month; it was the fifth year of the exile of King Jehoiachin.
3
The word of the LORD came to Ezekiel son of Buzi, the priest, in the land of the Chaldeans, by the Kebar River; and the hand of the LORD was upon him there.
Eze.1.3 - Details
Translation
The word of the LORD came to Ezekiel son of Buzi, the priest, in the land of the Chaldeans, by the Kebar River; and the hand of the LORD was upon him there.
Original Text
היה היה דבר־ יהוה אל־ יחזקאל בן־ בוזי הכהן בארץ כשדים על־ נהר־ כבר ותהי עליו שם יד־ יהוה׃
Morphology
- היה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- היה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- דבר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- יחזקאל: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בוזי: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- הכהן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- כשדים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- על: PREP
- נהר: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- כבר: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ותהי: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- עליו: PREP,3,m,sg
- שם: ADV
- יד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Jeremiah 1:2-3 (verbal): Uses the same prophetic introduction, 'the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah,' and identifies the prophetic call in a similar biographical form (son of..., receiving the word).
- Hosea 1:1 (verbal): Begins with the formula 'the word of the LORD that came to Hosea,' paralleling Ezekiel's opening clause that announces a divine revelation to a named prophet.
- Zechariah 1:1 (verbal): Opens with the standard prophetic formula, situating the prophetic message in time and attributing it to the word of the LORD, comparable to Ezekiel's introductory wording.
- Ezekiel 3:14 (verbal): Within Ezekiel's narrative the phrase 'the hand of the LORD was upon me' recurs here in the context of a visionary/commissioning experience, echoing 1:3's report of divine empowering.
- Ezekiel 8:1 (verbal): Another internal parallel where Ezekiel records 'the hand of the LORD was upon me there,' linking 1:3's locational and experiential language (on the Chebar, the LORD's hand upon him) with later visionary scenes.
Alternative generated candidates
- The word of the LORD came to Ezekiel son of Buzi the priest, in the land of the Chaldeans, by the Chebar canal; and the hand of the LORD was upon him there.
- The word of the LORD came to Ezekiel the priest, son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the River Chebar; and the hand of the LORD was upon him there.
4
I looked, and behold, a stormy wind came from the north — a great cloud with flashing fire, and brightness about it; and from the midst of it there was something like gleaming metal out of the fire.
Eze.1.4 - Details
Translation
I looked, and behold, a stormy wind came from the north — a great cloud with flashing fire, and brightness about it; and from the midst of it there was something like gleaming metal out of the fire.
Original Text
וארא והנה רוח סערה באה מן־ הצפון ענן גדול ואש מתלקחת ונגה לו סביב ומתוכה כעין החשמל מתוך האש׃
Morphology
- וארא: VERB,qal,impf,1,?,sg
- והנה: ADV
- רוח: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- סערה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- באה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- מן: PREP
- הצפון: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ענן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- גדול: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- ואש: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מתלקחת: VERB,hitpael,part,3,f,sg
- ונגה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- סביב: ADV
- ומתוכה: PREP+PRON,3,f,sg
- כעין: PREP
- החשמל: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מתוך: PREP
- האש: NOUN,f,sg,def
Parallels
- 2 Kings 2:11 (thematic): A whirlwind accompanies a divine/prophetic transport—parallel motif of a whirlwind as the vehicle or sign of God's action taking someone up into heaven.
- Psalm 104:3-4 (verbal): Speaks of God making clouds his chariot and using winds and flaming fire as ministers—shared imagery of cloud, wind/whirlwind and fiery brightness surrounding divine presence.
- Nahum 1:3 (verbal): States that the LORD's way is in whirlwind and storm and shows his power with burning/consuming fire—language of whirlwind and divine fire echoes Ezekiel’s vision from the north.
- Daniel 7:2-3 (thematic): Apocalyptic opening image of the four winds of heaven stirring the great sea—similar cosmic, wind-driven imagery that introduces a visionary revelation.
- Psalm 18:7-15 (thematic): Describes earthquake, smoke, fire and brightness issuing from God's presence (smoke out of his nostrils, fire from his mouth, flashes of lightning)—comparable motifs of fire, brightness and tumult signaling divine manifestation.
Alternative generated candidates
- As I looked, behold, a whirlwind came out of the north—a great cloud with flashing fire, and a brightness around it—and from within it something like gleaming metal, out of the fire.
- As I looked, behold, a stormy wind came out of the north: a great cloud, and as fire flashing forth; and brightness was about it, and from its midst there was something like the appearance of amber from the midst of the fire.
5
From its midst came the likeness of four living creatures; this was their appearance: they had the likeness of a man.
Eze.1.5 - Details
Translation
From its midst came the likeness of four living creatures; this was their appearance: they had the likeness of a man.
Original Text
ומתוכה דמות ארבע חיות וזה מראיהן דמות אדם להנה׃
Morphology
- ומתוכה: CONJ+PREP,3,f,sg
- דמות: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ארבע: NUM,card,f
- חיות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- וזה: CONJ+PRON,dem,m,sg,abs
- מראיהן: NOUN,f,sg,abs,3,f,pl-suff
- דמות: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אדם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- להנה: PREP,3,f,pl
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:10 (verbal): Direct continuation of the same vision: lists the four faces (man, lion, ox, eagle) that describe the appearance of the four living creatures.
- Ezekiel 10:14 (verbal): Repetition of the cherubim imagery later in Ezekiel—four-faced creatures with the same faces, linking the temple/cherub visions to the inaugural vision.
- Revelation 4:6-8 (allusion): John’s throne-room vision features four living creatures with faces like a man, lion, ox and eagle—clearly drawing on Ezekiel’s imagery for apocalyptic worship scenes.
- Daniel 7:3-4 (thematic): Another apocalyptic vision featuring four beasts; while different in form and function, it shares the motif of a fourfold creature-vision conveying cosmic/eschatological significance.
- Isaiah 6:2-3 (thematic): Throne-room vision with attendant heavenly creatures (seraphim) proclaiming God’s holiness—parallels Ezekiel’s heavenly/cherubic setting and liturgical character of the vision.
Alternative generated candidates
- And from within it came the likeness of four living creatures. This was their appearance: they had the likeness of a man.
- From within it came the likeness of four living creatures; this was their appearance: they had the likeness of a man.
6
Each had four faces and each had four wings.
Eze.1.6 - Details
Translation
Each had four faces and each had four wings.
Original Text
וארבעה פנים לאחת וארבע כנפים לאחת להם׃
Morphology
- וארבעה: CONJ+NUM,card,m,sg
- פנים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- לאחת: PREP+NUM,f,sg
- וארבע: CONJ,NUM,card,f,sg
- כנפים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- לאחת: PREP+NUM,f,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:10 (verbal): Same vision immediately identifies the four faces as a man, a lion, an ox and an eagle—expanding on ‘four faces’ mentioned in 1:6.
- Ezekiel 10:14 (verbal): Later temple-vision description repeats that each cherub had four faces, directly paralleling the language and imagery of 1:6.
- Revelation 4:6-8 (thematic): The four living creatures around the throne have multiple wings and bear the likenesses of a lion, calf/ox, man and eagle—echoing Ezekiel’s four-faced, winged beings.
- Isaiah 6:2 (structural): Seraphim are described as winged heavenly beings (with multiple wings) attending God’s throne; parallels the winged, throne-attending creatures motif in Ezekiel 1:6.
Alternative generated candidates
- Each had four faces and each had four wings.
- Each had four faces, and each had four wings.
7
Their legs were straight; the soles of their feet were like the sole of a calf’s foot; they gleamed like burnished bronze.
Eze.1.7 - Details
Translation
Their legs were straight; the soles of their feet were like the sole of a calf’s foot; they gleamed like burnished bronze.
Original Text
ורגליהם רגל ישרה וכף רגליהם ככף רגל עגל ונצצים כעין נחשת קלל׃
Morphology
- ורגליהם: CONJ+NOUN,f,pl,abs,3mp
- רגל: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ישרה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- וכף: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- רגליהם: NOUN,f,pl,abs+3,m,pl
- ככף: PREP
- רגל: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- עגל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ונצצים: CONJ+VERB,qal,ptc,NA,m,pl
- כעין: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- נחשת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- קלל: ADJ,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Ezekiel 10:7 (verbal): Parallel description of the cherubim’s legs/feet and gleaming bronze—same visionary creature-language reused later in Ezekiel’s temple-vision.
- Revelation 1:15 (verbal): The risen Son of Man’s feet are described as like burnished bronze, echoing Ezekiel’s metallic imagery for legs/feet in a divine vision.
- Revelation 4:7-8 (thematic): The four living creatures include one like a calf/ox and surround God’s throne—echoing Ezekiel’s four-faced, calf/ox imagery and throne-associated living beings.
- Daniel 10:6 (verbal): A heavenly figure’s legs are described as like polished/bright bronze, reflecting the same metalline simile applied to divine/angelic limbs in Ezekiel 1:7.
Alternative generated candidates
- Their legs were straight; and the soles of their feet were like the sole of a calf’s foot. They gleamed like burnished bronze.
- Their legs were straight; and the soles of their feet were like the sole of a calf’s foot; they gleamed like burnished bronze.
8
Under their wings, on their four sides, they had human hands; all four had their faces and their wings.
Eze.1.8 - Details
Translation
Under their wings, on their four sides, they had human hands; all four had their faces and their wings.
Original Text
וידי אדם מתחת כנפיהם על ארבעת רבעיהם ופניהם וכנפיהם לארבעתם׃
Morphology
- וידי: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs+1s
- אדם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מתחת: PREP
- כנפיהם: NOUN,m,pl,suff
- על: PREP
- ארבעת: NUM,card,pl,cstr
- רבעיהם: NOUN,m,pl,suff
- ופניהם: CONJ+NOUN,f,pl,suff
- וכנפיהם: CONJ+NOUN,f,pl,suff,poss:3mp
- לארבעתם: PREP+NUM,card,pl,suff
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:11 (verbal): Immediate parallel within the same vision: repeats the description of their faces and the arrangement of wings (two wings joined, two covering the body).
- Ezekiel 10:8-9 (verbal): Ezekiel reprises the same motif of 'hands under their wings' and the cherubic figures when describing the temple vision and the glory's departure; language and imagery are closely parallel.
- Isaiah 6:2 (structural): Seraphim described with six wings—two covering the face, two covering the feet, two for flying—parallels the structural motif of wings used for protection/covering in heavenly beings.
- Revelation 4:8 (thematic): The four living creatures around God's throne with multiple wings and continual praise echo Ezekiel's living-creature throne-vision and winged, multi-faced beings.
- Exodus 25:20 (thematic): Cherubim with outstretched wings overshadowing the mercy seat (the Ark) reflect the ancient cultic/temple tradition of winged cherubim closely related to Ezekiel's cherubic imagery.
Alternative generated candidates
- Under their wings on their four sides were human hands; all four had their faces and their wings.
- Under their wings, on their four sides, they had the hands of a man; all four of them had their faces and their wings.
9
Their wings were joined one to another; they did not turn as they moved — each went straight forward.
Eze.1.9 - Details
Translation
Their wings were joined one to another; they did not turn as they moved — each went straight forward.
Original Text
חברת אשה אל־ אחותה כנפיהם לא־ יסבו בלכתן איש אל־ עבר פניו ילכו׃
Morphology
- חברת: NOUN,f,sg,const
- אשה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- אחותה: NOUN,f,sg,abs,3fs
- כנפיהם: NOUN,f,pl,abs,3mp
- לא: PART_NEG
- יסבו: VERB,qal,impf,3,pl
- בלכתן: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs,3fp
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- עבר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- פניו: NOUN,m,pl,cons+3,m,sg
- ילכו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Revelation 4:8 (thematic): Four living creatures with multiple wings and unceasing activity/worship echo Ezekiel’s winged creatures — shared heavenly-vision motif and emphasis on ceaseless movement/function.
- Isaiah 6:2 (thematic): Seraphim described with six wings (covering face/feet and flying) parallels the portrayal of multi‑winged heavenly beings and specific wing arrangements in Ezekiel.
- Ezekiel 1:11 (verbal): Immediate parallel within the same vision — repeats the idea that the living creatures went straight forward and did not turn as they moved.
- Ezekiel 10:21 (structural): Later recounting of the cherubim in Ezekiel’s temple vision uses similar language and imagery (wings, joined movement, association with wheels), reiterating the chariot/cherub motif.
Alternative generated candidates
- The wings of one were joined to the wings of another; they did not turn as they went, but each went straight forward.
- Their wings were joined one to another; they did not turn as they went, each went straight forward.
10
As for the faces: the face of a man, and to the right of them the face of a lion for each of the four, and to the left the face of an ox for each of the four, and the face of an eagle for each of the four.
Eze.1.10 - Details
Translation
As for the faces: the face of a man, and to the right of them the face of a lion for each of the four, and to the left the face of an ox for each of the four, and the face of an eagle for each of the four.
Original Text
ודמות פניהם פני אדם ופני אריה אל־ הימין לארבעתם ופני־ שור מהשמאול לארבעתן ופני־ נשר לארבעתן׃
Morphology
- ודמות: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- פניהם: NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,3,m,pl
- פני: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- אדם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ופני: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,cons
- אריה: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- אל: NEG
- הימין: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לארבעתם: PREP+NUM,card,m,pl,prs:3mp
- ופני: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,cons
- שור: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מהשמאול: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- לארבעתן: PREP+NUM,card,m,pl,prs:3mp
- ופני: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,cons
- נשר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לארבעתן: PREP+NUM,card,m,pl,prs:3mp
Parallels
- Ezekiel 10:14 (verbal): Repeats the exact four-faced description of the living creatures (man, lion, ox, eagle) in Ezekiel’s later temple/cherubim scene — a direct verbal recurrence within the same book.
- Revelation 4:7 (verbal): The four living creatures before the throne are described with faces like a lion, calf/ox, man, and flying eagle — a clear verbal echo of Ezekiel’s four-faced beings.
- Daniel 7:3-6 (thematic): Daniel’s four beasts (lion, bear, leopard, and a fourth terrifying beast) use animal imagery to represent cosmic/kingly powers; thematically related to Ezekiel’s use of four animal faces to convey divine/angelic attributes.
- Isaiah 6:2 (thematic): Isaiah’s vision of winged heavenly attendants (seraphim) around God’s throne parallels Ezekiel’s throne-vision and the role of supernatural winged/animal-like beings serving in God’s presence, though with different specifics.
Alternative generated candidates
- As for the likeness of their faces: they had the face of a man; each of the four had the face of a lion on the right side, the face of an ox on the left side, and the face of an eagle.
- As for the likeness of their faces: the face of a man, and the face of a lion on the right of the four, the face of an ox on the left of the four, and the face of an eagle for the four.
11
Their faces and their wings were arranged above; two wings touched one another, and two covered their bodies.
Eze.1.11 - Details
Translation
Their faces and their wings were arranged above; two wings touched one another, and two covered their bodies.
Original Text
ופניהם וכנפיהם פרדות מלמעלה לאיש שתים חברות איש ושתים מכסות את גויתיהנה׃
Morphology
- ופניהם: NOUN,m,pl,suff
- וכנפיהם: CONJ+NOUN,f,pl,suff,poss:3mp
- פרדות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- מלמעלה: ADV
- לאיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שתים: NUM,f,pl,abs
- חברות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ושתים: NUM,f,pl,abs
- מכסות: VERB,qal,ptcp,3,f,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- גויתיהנה: NOUN,m,pl,suff
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:6 (verbal): Same vision — description of the living creatures' wings and faces; repeats the arrangement of wings (four wings, two used to cover the body) and closely parallels the language and imagery.
- Ezekiel 1:8 (verbal): Near-identical detail: two wings touching/meeting one another and two covering their bodies; essentially the same descriptive formula within the same chapter.
- Ezekiel 10:5 (structural): Later scene with the cherubim in Ezekiel's temple-vision where the cherubim stretch forth their wings and perform similar movements — a continuation/structural reprise of the winged-creature motif.
- Isaiah 6:2 (thematic): Seraphim described with wings that cover face and feet and are used in flight — thematically parallel in depicting heavenly beings using wings to veil themselves.
- Revelation 4:7 (allusion): The four living creatures in John's vision, each with a different face (lion, ox, man, eagle), echo Ezekiel's multi‑faced heavenly beings — a New Testament reception/allusion to Ezekielic imagery.
Alternative generated candidates
- Their faces and their wings were separate above; two of each had their wings joined one to another, and two covered their bodies.
- Their faces and their wings were separated above; each had two wings joined to another, and two wings covering their bodies.
12
Each went straight forward; wherever the spirit would go, they went; they did not turn as they went.
Eze.1.12 - Details
Translation
Each went straight forward; wherever the spirit would go, they went; they did not turn as they went.
Original Text
ואיש אל־ עבר פניו ילכו אל אשר יהיה־ שמה הרוח ללכת ילכו לא יסבו בלכתן׃
Morphology
- ואיש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- עבר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- פניו: NOUN,m,pl,cons+3,m,sg
- ילכו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- אשר: PRON,rel
- יהיה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- שמה: ADV
- הרוח: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ללכת: VERB,qal,inf
- ילכו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- לא: PART_NEG
- יסבו: VERB,qal,imprf,3,m,pl
- בלכתן: VERB,qal,inf,3,f,pl
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:20-21 (verbal): Immediate parallel in the same chapter repeating the formula that the living creatures went wherever the spirit would go and did not turn when they went.
- Ezekiel 10:12 (verbal): A near‑verbatim restatement in the temple‑vision: the cherubim and the wheels move wherever the spirit goes, linking the wheels to the living creatures' movement.
- Ezekiel 3:14 (structural): The prophet himself is carried and moved by the spirit ('the spirit lifted me up and took me away'), echoing the motif of movement directed by the Spirit.
- Zechariah 6:5 (thematic): Speaks of 'the four spirits of the heavens, which go forth' from the Lord, thematically paralleling heavenly beings moving under the Spirit's direction.
- Revelation 4:7-8 (allusion): The four living creatures around the throne (faces like lion, ox, man, eagle) and their continual activity allude to Ezekiel's creatures and their Spirit‑driven movement and service.
Alternative generated candidates
- Each went straight forward; wherever the spirit would go, they went; they did not turn as they went.
- Each one went straight forward; wherever the spirit would go, they went; they did not turn as they went.
13
The appearance of the living creatures was like burning coals of fire, like the appearance of torches moving among the living creatures; the fire was bright, and out of the fire went forth lightning.
Eze.1.13 - Details
Translation
The appearance of the living creatures was like burning coals of fire, like the appearance of torches moving among the living creatures; the fire was bright, and out of the fire went forth lightning.
Original Text
ודמות החיות מראיהם כגחלי־ אש בערות כמראה הלפדים היא מתהלכת בין החיות ונגה לאש ומן־ האש יוצא ברק׃
Morphology
- ודמות: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- החיות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- מראיהם: NOUN,m,sg,abs,poss3mp
- כגחלי: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,construct
- אש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בערות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- כמראה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הלפדים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- היא: PRON,dem,3,f,sg
- מתהלכת: VERB,hitpael,ptcp,_,f,sg
- בין: PREP
- החיות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- ונגה: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לאש: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ומן: CONJ+PREP
- האש: NOUN,f,sg,def
- יוצא: VERB,qal,part,ms,sg
- ברק: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Ezekiel 10:2 (verbal): Directly parallels the image of burning coals among the cherubim/wheels; Ezekiel 10 instructs taking burning coals from among the cherubim—same motif and almost identical vocabulary.
- Daniel 7:9-10 (thematic): Daniel's throne‑vision features a fiery throne and a stream/sea of fire issuing forth, echoing the fiery, awe‑inspiring heavenly scenery and attendant beings in Ezekiel's vision.
- Revelation 4:5 (structural): John's throne‑room vision includes lamps of fire and flashes of lightning proceeding from the throne—structurally similar fire/lightning motifs and heavenly attendants as in Ezekiel 1.
- Isaiah 6:6 (thematic): A seraph brings a live coal to Isaiah—shares the motif of divine attendants associated with burning coals/fire, used for purification and divine presence imagery.
Alternative generated candidates
- The likeness of the living creatures was the appearance of burning coals of fire, like torches moving to and fro among the living creatures; the fire was bright, and from the fire went forth lightning.
- As for the likeness of the living creatures, their appearance was like burning coals of fire, like the appearance of torches moving to and fro among the living creatures; the fire was bright, and out of the fire went lightning.
14
The living creatures ran and returned like flashes of lightning.
Eze.1.14 - Details
Translation
The living creatures ran and returned like flashes of lightning.
Original Text
והחיות רצוא ושוב כמראה הבזק׃
Morphology
- והחיות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- רצוא: VERB,qal,ptc,f,pl
- ושוב: CONJ+VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- כמראה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הבזק: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:19 (verbal): Same vision/scene; repeats and expands on the movement of the living creatures and their coordination with the wheels — the language about the creatures' motion echoes 1:14.
- Ezekiel 10:9-17 (structural): A later recapitulation of the chariot/cherubim vision: the cherubim and wheels move together with swift, unified motion, reflecting the same ‘running/returning’ dynamism of 1:14.
- Revelation 4:6-8 (allusion): John’s four living creatures around the throne parallel Ezekiel’s cherubim (number, beastly imagery, ceaseless activity); Revelation also links the throne-area with lightnings and movement, echoing Ezekiel’s vision of swift, brilliant motion.
- Daniel 7:2-6 (thematic): Apocalyptic visions of four strange beasts that move dynamically across the scene; thematically related as symbolic, dread-inspiring living figures in an otherworldly throne/vision context.
- Isaiah 6:2 (thematic): Heavenly winged beings (seraphim) attending God’s throne—like Ezekiel’s living creatures they are winged, serve in the divine presence, and convey the motif of swift, ministering celestial beings.
Alternative generated candidates
- The living creatures ran and returned like the flash of lightning.
- The creatures sped back and forth like flashes of lightning.
15
As I looked at the living creatures, behold, there was a wheel on the earth beside each of the four of them.
Eze.1.15 - Details
Translation
As I looked at the living creatures, behold, there was a wheel on the earth beside each of the four of them.
Original Text
וארא החיות והנה אופן אחד בארץ אצל החיות לארבעת פניו׃
Morphology
- וארא: VERB,qal,impf,1,?,sg
- החיות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- והנה: ADV
- אופן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אחד: NUM,card,m,sg
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- אצל: PREP
- החיות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- לארבעת: NUM,pl,cons
- פניו: NOUN,m,pl,cons+3,m,sg
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:16 (structural): Immediate continuation in the same vision describing the wheels beside the living creatures and their configuration — directly continues the same scene and language.
- Ezekiel 10:9-17 (verbal): Repeats and develops the wheel-and-cherubim motif in a later temple-vision; explicitly links the wheels’ movement with the cherubim as in 1:15–21.
- Revelation 4:7 (verbal): The four living creatures around the throne are described ‘like a lion, ox, man, and eagle,’ echoing Ezekiel’s four faces and the heavenly-creature typology.
- Isaiah 6:2 (thematic): Visionary throne-room with winged heavenly beings ministering before God; parallels the function and otherworldly character of Ezekiel’s living creatures (though different creature-types).
Alternative generated candidates
- As I looked at the living creatures, behold, a wheel on the earth beside each living creature, for all four of them.
- As I looked at the living creatures, behold, a wheel on the earth beside each of the living creatures, for the four of them.
16
The appearance of the wheels and their construction was like the gleam of chrysolite; all four had one likeness, and their appearance and construction was like a wheel within a wheel.
Eze.1.16 - Details
Translation
The appearance of the wheels and their construction was like the gleam of chrysolite; all four had one likeness, and their appearance and construction was like a wheel within a wheel.
Original Text
מראה האופנים ומעשיהם כעין תרשיש ודמות אחד לארבעתן ומראיהם ומעשיהם כאשר יהיה האופן בתוך האופן׃
Morphology
- מראה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- האופנים: DET+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ומעשיהם: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs+3mp
- כעין: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- תרשיש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ודמות: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אחד: NUM,card,m,sg
- לארבעתן: PREP+NUM,card,pl,abs+3mp
- ומראיהם: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs+3mp
- ומעשיהם: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs+3mp
- כאשר: CONJ
- יהיה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- האופן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בתוך: PREP
- האופן: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Ezekiel 10:9-13 (verbal): Repeats and develops the identical wheel‑within‑a‑wheel language and imagery (the ophanim) and explicitly links the wheels' appearance and motion to the cherubim, using similar wording to 1:16.
- Ezekiel 1:15, 1:20 (structural): Immediate literary context: verse 1:15 introduces the wheels and their appearance, and 1:20 explains their coordinated movement with the living creatures—together these verses form a single description of the ophanim in 1:16.
- Revelation 4:6-8 (allusion): John's vision echoes Ezekiel's living creatures and their many‑eyed appearance around the heavenly throne; Revelation adopts and adapts Ezekielic motifs (four living beings full of eyes) in an eschatological setting.
- Daniel 7:2-4 (thematic): Both visions feature a fourfold assemblage of strange creatures/beasts in an apocalyptic heavenly panorama; though Daniel's beasts function differently, the motif of four symbolic creatures connects the texts thematically.
- Zechariah 6:1-5 (thematic): Visionary chariot/warrior imagery (four chariots coming from between mountains) participates in the broader prophetic 'chariot/throne' (merkavah) tradition to which Ezekiel's wheels belong, reflecting related symbolic uses of wheeled/vehicular motifs.
Alternative generated candidates
- The appearance of the wheels and their workings was like the color of beryl; and all four had one likeness; the appearance of the wheels was as if a wheel were within a wheel.
- The appearance of the wheels and their workmanship was like the gleam of beryl; and all four had one likeness; their appearance and their workmanship was as it were a wheel within a wheel.
17
When they went, they went on their four sides; they did not turn as they went.
Eze.1.17 - Details
Translation
When they went, they went on their four sides; they did not turn as they went.
Original Text
על־ ארבעת רבעיהן בלכתם ילכו לא יסבו בלכתן׃
Morphology
- על: PREP
- ארבעת: NUM,card,pl,cons
- רבעיהן: NOUN,m,pl,cons+3fp
- בלכתם: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ילכו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- לא: PART_NEG
- יסבו: VERB,qal,impf,3,pl
- בלכתן: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:12 (verbal): Nearly identical wording earlier in the same vision: the living creatures 'went every one straight forward' and 'turned not when they went,' repeating the motif of straight, spirit-directed movement.
- Ezekiel 1:19 (verbal): Describes the wheels moving in concert with the living creatures ('when the living creatures went, the wheels went beside them'), reinforcing the idea of coordinated, non-turning movement.
- Ezekiel 10:12 (thematic): Later recapitulation of the cherubim/wheels vision: 'when they went, they went; when they stood, they stood,' emphasizing the same principle that the spirit directs movement and they do not turn of their own accord.
- Zechariah 6:1-5 (thematic): Vision of four chariots sent by the 'spirits of the heavens' moving to the four directions—parallels the fourfold, spirit-directed movement motif and the symbolism of four moving agents.
- Revelation 4:6-8 (allusion): John's four living creatures around the throne echo Ezekiel's four living beings (many-eyed, ceaseless activity); Revelation likely alludes to Ezekiel's imagery of heavenly creatures who serve and move under divine direction.
Alternative generated candidates
- When they went, they went upon their four sides; they did not turn as they went.
- When they went they went upon their four sides; they turned not when they went.
18
Their rims were lofty and awesome, and the rims of all four were full of eyes round about.
Eze.1.18 - Details
Translation
Their rims were lofty and awesome, and the rims of all four were full of eyes round about.
Original Text
וגביהן וגבה להם ויראה להם וגבתם מלאת עינים סביב לארבעתן׃
Morphology
- וגביהן: CONJ+NOUN,f,pl,abs+PRON,3,f,pl
- וגבה: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- ויראה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- וגבתם: CONJ+NOUN,f,pl,abs+PRON,3,m,pl
- מלאת: ADJ,f,pl,abs
- עינים: NOUN,f,du,abs
- סביב: ADV
- לארבעתן: PREP+NUM,pl+PRON,3,f,pl
Parallels
- Ezekiel 10:12 (quotation): Direct repetition within Ezekiel: the wheels/rims are again described as being 'full of eyes round about'—same verbal image and motif.
- Revelation 4:6-8 (allusion): John's four living creatures are described as 'full of eyes, around and within,' echoing Ezekiel's many‑eyed wheels and linking visionary creature imagery to divine presence.
- Revelation 5:6 (allusion): The Lamb is said to have 'seven eyes,' using the motif of eyes as a symbol of divine omniscience and perception—thematically resonant with the wheels full of eyes.
- Ezekiel 1:15-21 (structural): Immediate context describing the 'wheel within a wheel,' movement and structure of the living creatures; verse 18 is part of this larger structural unit about the wheels' appearance and function.
- Daniel 7:9-10 (thematic): A throne‑vision in apocalyptic literature with symbolic heavenly attendants and intense visionary detail; parallels Ezekiel's use of striking symbolic imagery to portray divine presence and activity.
Alternative generated candidates
- Their rims were high and awesome, and the rims of all four were full of eyes all around.
- Their rims were lofty and awesome, and the rims of all four were full of eyes round about.
19
When the living creatures moved, the wheels moved beside them; and when the living creatures were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up.
Eze.1.19 - Details
Translation
When the living creatures moved, the wheels moved beside them; and when the living creatures were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up.
Original Text
ובלכת החיות ילכו האופנים אצלם ובהנשא החיות מעל הארץ ינשאו האופנים׃
Morphology
- ובלכת: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- החיות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- ילכו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- האופנים: DET+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- אצלם: PREP,3,m,pl
- ובהנשא: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- החיות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- מעל: PREP
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ינשאו: VERB,niphal,impf,3,m,pl
- האופנים: DET+NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:20-21 (verbal): Immediate continuation: describes the same phenomenon — when the living creatures moved the wheels moved beside them and the rims full of eyes, giving the fuller context to 1:19.
- Ezekiel 10:7 (verbal): Repetition of the wheel-and-living-creature formula in a later vision (the temple/mercy-seat scene), echoing the mobility of the wheels 'beside' the creatures.
- Ezekiel 10:16-17 (verbal): Parallel description of wheels being lifted with the cherubim and of the living creatures and wheels ascending from the earth, closely repeating the language and action of 1:19.
- Revelation 4:6-8 (allusion): John’s throne-vision features four living creatures around God’s throne whose continuous movement and worship echo Ezekiel’s cherubim/creature imagery, suggesting an appropriation of Ezekiel’s motifs.
- 2 Kings 2:11 (thematic): Elijah’s ascent in a fiery chariot (with horses) provides an Old Testament precedent for divine transport/manifest chariot imagery — thematically related to Ezekiel’s wheels and heavenly vehicle.
Alternative generated candidates
- When the living creatures went, the wheels went beside them; and when the living creatures were lifted from the earth, the wheels were lifted.
- When the living creatures went, the wheels went beside them; and when the living creatures were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up.
20
Wherever the spirit went to go, they went; the wheels were lifted up over against them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.
Eze.1.20 - Details
Translation
Wherever the spirit went to go, they went; the wheels were lifted up over against them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.
Original Text
על אשר יהיה־ שם הרוח ללכת ילכו שמה הרוח ללכת והאופנים ינשאו לעמתם כי רוח החיה באופנים׃
Morphology
- על: PREP
- אשר: PRON,rel
- יהיה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- שם: ADV
- הרוח: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ללכת: VERB,qal,inf
- ילכו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- שמה: ADV
- הרוח: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ללכת: VERB,qal,inf
- והאופנים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,def
- ינשאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- לעמתם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- כי: CONJ
- רוח: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- החיה: VERB,hiph,perf,3,m,sg
- באופנים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,def
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:19-21 (verbal): Immediate context: repeats and expands the same wording — the living creatures move where the spirit goes and the wheels are lifted beside them because the spirit of the living creatures is in the wheels.
- Ezekiel 10:19 (verbal): Direct restatement later in Ezekiel's temple vision: echoes the exact formula that the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.
- Zechariah 6:1-5 (thematic): Vision of four chariots identified as 'the four spirits of heaven' going out — parallel motif of divine/angelic spirits directing wheeled vehicles across the earth.
- Revelation 4:6-8 (thematic): Four living creatures around God's throne constantly moving and full of eyes; resonates with Ezekiel's living creatures, their mobility, and their association with divine presence and praise.
- Daniel 7:2-3 (thematic): The 'four winds of heaven' stirring the sea to bring forth four beasts — thematically related to spirit/wind as the motive force causing supernatural beings to move into action.
Alternative generated candidates
- Wherever the spirit would go, they went; the wheels were beside them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.
- Wherever the spirit was to go, they went; there was their spirit to go; the wheels were lifted up beside them—for the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels.
21
When they went they went, and when they stood they stood; and when they were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up over against them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.
Eze.1.21 - Details
Translation
When they went they went, and when they stood they stood; and when they were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up over against them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.
Original Text
בלכתם ילכו ובעמדם יעמדו ובהנשאם מעל הארץ ינשאו האופנים לעמתם כי רוח החיה באופנים׃
Morphology
- בלכתם: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,pl
- ילכו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- ובעמדם: CONJ+PREP+VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,pl
- יעמדו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- ובהנשאם: CONJ+PREP+VERB,nifal,ptc,3,m,pl
- מעל: PREP
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ינשאו: VERB,nifal,impf,3,m,pl
- האופנים: DET+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- לעמתם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- כי: CONJ
- רוח: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- החיה: VERB,hiph,perf,3,m,sg
- באופנים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,def
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:20 (verbal): Immediate parallel in the same vision: repeats the formula 'when they went they went, when they stood they stood' and explicitly states 'for the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels.'
- Ezekiel 10:19 (verbal): Restates the wheel-and-cherubim language during the departure of God's glory: the wheels are lifted and 'the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.'
- Ezekiel 11:22-23 (thematic): Describes the glory of Yahweh departing Jerusalem on the cherubim and the Spirit lifting Ezekiel up — thematically linking movement of the divine glory, the cherubim, and the Spirit's agency.
- Zechariah 6:5 (allusion): Speaks of chariots as 'the four spirits of heaven' that go out from standing before the Lord — an image analogous to living, spirit-driven vehicles conveying divine presence (parallel to wheels/ophanim).
- Revelation 4:6-8 (thematic): Depicts four living creatures around God's throne, full of eyes and continually moving/crying — echoes Ezekiel's living creatures, their mobility, and role in the divine court.
Alternative generated candidates
- When they went they went; when they stood they stood; and when they were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up beside them, for the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels.
- When they went they went, and when they stood they stood; and when they were lifted up from the earth they were lifted up—for the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels.
22
Over the heads of the living creatures there was an expanse, like the awesome gleam of crystal, spread out above their heads.
Eze.1.22 - Details
Translation
Over the heads of the living creatures there was an expanse, like the awesome gleam of crystal, spread out above their heads.
Original Text
ודמות על־ ראשי החיה רקיע כעין הקרח הנורא נטוי על־ ראשיהם מלמעלה׃
Morphology
- ודמות: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- ראשי: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,1,sg
- החיה: VERB,hiph,perf,3,m,sg
- רקיע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כעין: PREP
- הקרח: NOUN,m,sg,def
- הנורא: ADJ,m,sg,def
- נטוי: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- ראשיהם: NOUN,m,pl,abs,3,m,pl
- מלמעלה: ADV
Parallels
- Ezekiel 10:1 (verbal): Direct internal parallel in Ezekiel — the same imagery of a firmament/expanse like a sapphire or terrible crystal above the heads of the cherubim is repeated in the later vision.
- Genesis 1:6-8 (verbal): Uses the same term and concept of a 'firmament/expanse' (רקיע) that separates and is spread out above — the cosmic/architectural motif of a vaulted sky.
- Exodus 24:10 (verbal): Describes a pavement like sapphire under God's feet; parallels the sapphire/crystalline imagery used to characterize the heavenly surface associated with the divine presence.
- Revelation 4:6-7 (thematic): John's throne-vision echoes Ezekiel's: a crystalline 'sea/expanse like glass' before the throne and four living creatures surrounding it, echoing both the material imagery and the creaturely attendants.
- Isaiah 6:1-3 (thematic): Another ancient throne-vision featuring heavenly beings encircling Yahweh; parallels in structure and function (divine throne, attendant creatures/seraphim) though without the specific crystal/firmament motif.
Alternative generated candidates
- Over the heads of the living creatures there was an expanse, shining like awesome crystal, stretched out above their heads.
- Over the heads of the living creatures there was the likeness of an expanse, dazzling like crystal, stretched out over their heads above.
23
Under the expanse their wings were stretched out straight, one toward another; and each had two wings covering its body on this side and two on that side.
Eze.1.23 - Details
Translation
Under the expanse their wings were stretched out straight, one toward another; and each had two wings covering its body on this side and two on that side.
Original Text
ותחת הרקיע כנפיהם ישרות אשה אל־ אחותה לאיש שתים מכסות להנה ולאיש שתים מכסות להנה את גויתיהם׃
Morphology
- ותחת: CONJ+PREP
- הרקיע: NOUN,m,sg,def
- כנפיהם: NOUN,f,pl,abs,3mp
- ישרות: ADJ,f,pl,abs
- אשה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- אחותה: NOUN,f,sg,abs,3fs
- לאיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שתים: NUM,f,pl,abs
- מכסות: VERB,qal,ptc,f,pl
- להנה: PREP+DEM
- ולאיש: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שתים: NUM,f,pl,abs
- מכסות: VERB,qal,ptc,f,pl
- להנה: PREP+DEM
- את: PRT,acc
- גויתיהם: NOUN,f,pl,abs,3mp
Parallels
- Isaiah 6:2 (verbal): Seraphim described with six wings—'two cover the face, two cover the feet, and two are for flying'—closely parallels Ezekiel's language of wings covering and wings for motion.
- Revelation 4:8 (verbal): The four living creatures each have six wings and are described as holy—echoes Ezekiel's living-creature motif and the detail of multiple wings surrounding the beings.
- Exodus 25:20 (allusion): The cherubim on the mercy seat are depicted with wings outstretched over the place they guard—an earlier cultic image of wings spread over/covering that parallels Ezekiel's imagery of wings covering bodies.
- 1 Kings 6:23-28 (thematic): Solomon's temple cherubim are carved with outstretched wings (covering the inner sanctuary), reflecting the same motif of winged divine attendants protecting or shading sacred space.
- Ezekiel 10:20-22 (structural): An internal Ezekiel parallel: the cherubim seen later in chapter 10 are explicitly identified as the same living creatures seen in chapter 1, repeating the four-winged/covering-wing description.
Alternative generated candidates
- Under the expanse their wings were stretched out straight, each toward the other; two wings of each touched his neighbor, and two covered his body.
- Under the expanse their wings were stretched forth, one toward another; each had two which covered his body on one side and two which covered his body on the other side.
24
I heard the sound of their wings like the roar of many waters, like the voice of the Almighty — the sound of tumult like the sound of a camp; when they went, the sound of their wings was like that, and when they stood still, they let down their wings.
Eze.1.24 - Details
Translation
I heard the sound of their wings like the roar of many waters, like the voice of the Almighty — the sound of tumult like the sound of a camp; when they went, the sound of their wings was like that, and when they stood still, they let down their wings.
Original Text
ואשמע את־ קול כנפיהם כקול מים רבים כקול־ שדי בלכתם קול המלה כקול מחנה בעמדם תרפינה כנפיהן׃
Morphology
- ואשמע: VERB,qal,impf,1,_,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- קול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כנפיהם: NOUN,f,pl,cons+3mp
- כקול: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- רבים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- כקול: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שדי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בלכתם: PREP+VERB,qal,ptcp,3,mp
- קול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- המלה: DEF+NOUN,f,sg,def
- כקול: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מחנה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בעמדם: PREP+VERB,qal,ptcp,3,mp
- תרפינה: VERB,qal,imf,3,f,pl
- כנפיהן: NOUN,f,pl,cons+3fp
Parallels
- Ezekiel 10:5 (verbal): Repeats the imagery of the sound of the cherubim’s wings and explicitly links that noise to the voice of the Almighty—direct verbal echo within Ezekiel’s temple/vision scenes.
- Psalm 29:3-4 (verbal): Speaks of the voice of the LORD upon the waters and the mighty/majestic quality of that voice (’voice of the LORD is upon the waters… the voice of the LORD is powerful’), echoing ‘like the noise of many waters / like the voice of the Almighty.’
- Revelation 1:15 (allusion): John’s description of Christ’s voice ‘like the sound of many waters’ echoes Ezekiel’s formula comparing a heavenly voice to many waters, using the same simile in a throne/vision context.
- Isaiah 6:2-3 (thematic): Throne‑vision featuring winged heavenly creatures (seraphim) and a loud, awe‑inspiring proclamation around the divine throne parallels Ezekiel’s winged beings and the thunderous, multitudinous sound associated with God’s presence.
Alternative generated candidates
- And I heard the sound of their wings like the sound of many waters, like the voice of the Almighty; the sound of their wings was like the noise of an army when they went, and when they stood they let down their wings.
- And I heard the sound of their wings like the sound of many waters, like the voice of the Almighty when they went; the sound of the multitude was like the sound of an army. When they stood still, they let down their wings.
25
And there came a voice from above the expanse that was over their heads; when they stood, they let down their wings.
Eze.1.25 - Details
Translation
And there came a voice from above the expanse that was over their heads; when they stood, they let down their wings.
Original Text
ויהי־ קול מעל לרקיע אשר על־ ראשם בעמדם תרפינה כנפיהן׃
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- קול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מעל: PREP
- לרקיע: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אשר: PRON,rel
- על: PREP
- ראשם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+suff:3mp
- בעמדם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+suff:3mp
- תרפינה: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,pl
- כנפיהן: NOUN,f,pl,abs+suff:3fp
Parallels
- Ezekiel 1:24 (structural): Immediate context of the same vision—continues the description of a voice related to the firmament and the standing/movement of the living creatures.
- Ezekiel 10:5 (verbal): Uses nearly identical wording about a voice from above the firmament above the cherubim (׳קול מהרקיע אשר הוא מעל ראשיהם׳), repeating the motif in a later temple/vision scene.
- Isaiah 6:2 (thematic): Seraphim with wings standing around God and involved in vocal liturgy—parallel motif of winged heavenly beings responding in the divine presence.
- Revelation 4:8 (allusion): Apocalyptic echo: four living creatures with six wings who continually cry ‘Holy’—reflects Ezekiel’s winged creatures and the continuous vocal manifestation around God’s throne.
- Psalm 29:3-4 (thematic): The ‘voice of the LORD’ over the waters and in thunder associates divine presence with a powerful, heaven‑borne sound—parallels the phenomenon of a voice from above the firmament.
Alternative generated candidates
- And there came a voice from above the expanse that was over their heads; when they stood, they let down their wings.
- There was a voice above the expanse that was over their heads when they stood, and had let down their wings.
26
Above the expanse over their heads there was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like sapphire; and seated above the likeness of the throne was a likeness with the appearance of a man on it.
Eze.1.26 - Details
Translation
Above the expanse over their heads there was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like sapphire; and seated above the likeness of the throne was a likeness with the appearance of a man on it.
Original Text
וממעל לרקיע אשר על־ ראשם כמראה אבן־ ספיר דמות כסא ועל דמות הכסא דמות כמראה אדם עליו מלמעלה׃
Morphology
- וממעל: CONJ+PREP
- לרקיע: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אשר: PRON,rel
- על: PREP
- ראשם: NOUN,m,sg,pronominal
- כמראה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אבן: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ספיר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- דמות: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- כסא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ועל: CONJ+PREP
- דמות: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- הכסא: NOUN,m,sg,def
- דמות: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- כמראה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אדם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עליו: PREP,3,m,sg
- מלמעלה: ADV
Parallels
- Revelation 4:2-3 (verbal): Heavenly throne-vision with a throne and a dazzling gemstone appearance (jasper/sardius); parallels Ezekiel's description of a throne with a precious-stone-like appearance above the firmament.
- Revelation 1:13 (verbal): Visionary figure described as 'one like a son of man' standing among lampstands—echoes Ezekiel's 'likeness of a man' upon the throne.
- Daniel 7:9 (thematic): The 'Ancient of Days' seated on a throne in a heavenly court; shares the motif of a divine throne, majestic courtly setting, and anthropomorphic heavenly figure.
- Daniel 7:13 (verbal): The phrase 'one like a son of man' coming with the clouds parallels Ezekiel's 'likeness as the appearance of a man' enthroned—shared messianic/eschatological imagery.
- Ezekiel 10:1 (structural): Later Ezekiel rearticulates the throne-glory motif ('likeness of the throne') in the temple vision, demonstrating an internal thematic and verbal recurrence within the book.
Alternative generated candidates
- Above the expanse over their heads there was something like a throne, in appearance like sapphire; and on the likeness of the throne was a likeness like that of a human form above it.
- And above the expanse that was over their heads there was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like sapphire; and on the likeness of the throne there was a likeness with the appearance of a man on it above.
27
I saw as it were the appearance of fire — from the appearance of his loins and downward I saw as if it were fire, and from his loins upward I saw as if it were the appearance of brightness, like gleaming metal all around.
Eze.1.27 - Details
Translation
I saw as it were the appearance of fire — from the appearance of his loins and downward I saw as if it were fire, and from his loins upward I saw as if it were the appearance of brightness, like gleaming metal all around.
Original Text
וארא ׀ כעין חשמל כמראה־ אש בית־ לה סביב ממראה מתניו ולמעלה וממראה מתניו ולמטה ראיתי כמראה־ אש ונגה לו סביב׃
Morphology
- וארא: VERB,qal,impf,1,?,sg
- כעין: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- חשמל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כמראה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לה: PREP+PRON,3,f,sg
- סביב: ADV
- ממראה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מתניו: NOUN,f,pl,suff3,m
- ולמעלה: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- וממראה: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מתניו: NOUN,f,pl,suff3,m
- ולמטה: CONJ+PREP+ADV
- ראיתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- כמראה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ונגה: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- סביב: ADV
Parallels
- Exodus 24:17 (verbal): The glory of Yahweh appears 'like a consuming (devouring) fire'—close verbal and visual parallel to Ezekiel's 'appearance of fire' and surrounding brightness as the manifestation of God's presence.
- Exodus 3:2 (allusion): God's presence revealed in a burning bush—fire as a theophanic sign (divine appearance) echoing Ezekiel’s vision of fire about the divine form.
- Isaiah 6:1-4 (thematic): A heavenly throne-room vision with seraphim, smoke/cleansing, and overwhelming divine glory—recurrent imagery of brightness and fiery holiness around God's manifestation.
- Daniel 7:9 (thematic): The Ancient of Days is described with fiery elements (throne of flame, stream of fire) and dazzling brightness, paralleling Ezekiel’s fire-and-brightness theophany.
- Revelation 1:14-16 (allusion): John’s vision of the glorified Son of Man uses fire/brightness imagery (eyes like a flame of fire, feet like burnished bronze) that echoes Ezekiel’s vivid fire-surrounded divine appearance.
Alternative generated candidates
- I saw as it were gleaming metal, like the appearance of fire all around within it; from what appeared to be his waist and downward I saw fire, and from what appeared to be his waist and upward I saw a radiance like the gleam of burnished metal all around.
- I saw as the color of amber, something like the appearance of fire round about within it; from what seemed to be his waist downward I saw as it were fire, and from his waist upward I saw as it were the appearance of brightness, like the gleam of burning; and there was a radiance round about him.
28
Like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day was the appearance of the brightness all around. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. When I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking.
Eze.1.28 - Details
Translation
Like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day was the appearance of the brightness all around. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. When I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking.
Original Text
כמראה הקשת אשר יהיה בענן ביום הגשם כן מראה הנגה סביב הוא מראה דמות כבוד־ יהוה ואראה ואפל על־ פני ואשמע קול מדבר׃
Morphology
- כמראה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הקשת: NOUN,f,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- יהיה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בענן: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ביום: PREP
- הגשם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- כן: ADV
- מראה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הנגה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- סביב: ADV
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- מראה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- דמות: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- כבוד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ואראה: VERB,qal,imperfect,1,com,sg
- ואפל: CONJ+VERB,qal,impf,1,_,sg
- על: PREP
- פני: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- ואשמע: VERB,qal,impf,1,_,sg
- קול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מדבר: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Revelation 4:3 (verbal): Image of a rainbow encircling the divine throne—explicit echo of Ezekiel’s ‘appearance like a rainbow around the cloud’ describing God’s glory.
- Revelation 1:17 (thematic): John falls at the feet of the visionary figure and hears a speaking voice—parallels Ezekiel’s falling on his face and hearing a voice when seeing the divine glory.
- Isaiah 6:1-5 (thematic): Prophet’s vision of the exalted Lord provokes terror and prostration (‘I fell on my face’) and an auditory divine commission—close thematic resonance with Ezekiel’s reaction to the glory.
- Ezekiel 10:18-19 (structural): Within Ezekiel’s own book the glory’s brightness, the cloud, and the departure of the LORD’s glory reappear—an internal parallel in imagery and movement of the divine presence.
- Exodus 24:10-11 (allusion): The elders’ vision of a heavenly, sapphire-like pavement under God’s feet and their seeing God resonates with Ezekiel’s visionary description of the radiant appearance of the LORD’s glory.
Alternative generated candidates
- Like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day was the radiance all around. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. When I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking.
- Like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day was the appearance of the brightness round about. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. When I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking.
In the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, on the fifth day of the month — while I was among the exiles beside the Kebar River — the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of the LORD.
It was the fifth day of the month; it was the fifth year of the exile of King Jehoiachin.
The word of the LORD came to Ezekiel son of Buzi, the priest, in the land of the Chaldeans, by the Kebar River; and the hand of the LORD was upon him there.
I looked, and behold, a stormy wind came from the north — a great cloud with flashing fire, and brightness about it; and from the midst of it there was something like gleaming metal out of the fire.
From its midst came the likeness of four living creatures; this was their appearance: they had the likeness of a man.
Each had four faces and each had four wings.
Their legs were straight; the soles of their feet were like the sole of a calf’s foot; they gleamed like burnished bronze.
Under their wings, on their four sides, they had human hands; all four had their faces and their wings.
Their wings were joined one to another; they did not turn as they moved — each went straight forward.
As for the faces: the face of a man, and to the right of them the face of a lion for each of the four, and to the left the face of an ox for each of the four, and the face of an eagle for each of the four.
Their faces and their wings were arranged above; two wings touched one another, and two covered their bodies.
Each went straight forward; wherever the spirit would go, they went; they did not turn as they went.
The appearance of the living creatures was like burning coals of fire, like the appearance of torches moving among the living creatures; the fire was bright, and out of the fire went forth lightning.
The living creatures ran and returned like flashes of lightning.
As I looked at the living creatures, behold, there was a wheel on the earth beside each of the four of them.
The appearance of the wheels and their construction was like the gleam of chrysolite; all four had one likeness, and their appearance and construction was like a wheel within a wheel.
When they went, they went on their four sides; they did not turn as they went.
Their rims were lofty and awesome, and the rims of all four were full of eyes round about.
When the living creatures moved, the wheels moved beside them; and when the living creatures were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up.
Wherever the spirit went to go, they went; the wheels were lifted up over against them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.
When they went they went, and when they stood they stood; and when they were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up over against them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.
Over the heads of the living creatures there was an expanse, like the awesome gleam of crystal, spread out above their heads.
Under the expanse their wings were stretched out straight, one toward another; and each had two wings covering its body on this side and two on that side.
I heard the sound of their wings like the roar of many waters, like the voice of the Almighty — the sound of tumult like the sound of a camp; when they went, the sound of their wings was like that, and when they stood still, they let down their wings. And there came a voice from above the expanse that was over their heads; when they stood, they let down their wings.
Above the expanse over their heads there was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like sapphire; and seated above the likeness of the throne was a likeness with the appearance of a man on it.
I saw as it were the appearance of fire — from the appearance of his loins and downward I saw as if it were fire, and from his loins upward I saw as if it were the appearance of brightness, like gleaming metal all around.
Like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day was the appearance of the brightness all around. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. When I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking.