Biblical explanation
Cherubim first appear in Genesis after humanity's fall: “So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims” (). They also appear prominently in the sanctuary. God instructed that cherubim be represented above the mercy seat of the ark (). The imagery of cherubim appears again in Ezekiel's visions (; 10). The Psalms sometimes use cherubim imagery in descriptions of God's majestic movement: “He rode upon a cherub, and did fly” (). Cherubim therefore are not simply decorative baby-like figures. Scripture associates them with God's heavenly presence and glory. The Bible gives symbolic and visionary descriptions of cherubim, particularly in Ezekiel. Their exact physical appearance should not be reduced to later artistic traditions. Scripture's emphasis is their association with God's throne, glory, holiness, and presence.
In brief
Cherubim first appear in Genesis after humanity's fall: “So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims” ().
Bible references
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