Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Cherubim Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

👼
Add to dictionary

cherubim

[ˈtʃɛrʊbɪm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

religious context

Cherubim are celestial beings mentioned in various religious texts, particularly within Judeo-Christian traditions. Often depicted as winged creatures, they serve as attendants to God and guardians of sacred spaces. In the Bible, cherubim are described as having multiple faces and are associated with the presence of divine wisdom and protection. They are commonly represented in art and literature as symbols of divine grace and light.

Synonyms

angel, seraph, spirit.

Examples of usage

  • The cherubim guarded the entrance to the Garden of Eden.
  • In religious art, cherubim are often depicted flying around the throne of God.
  • The church's ceiling was adorned with beautiful images of cherubim.
  • Cherubim are sometimes invoked in prayers for protection.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Religious Significance

  • In the Bible, cherubim are described as guarders of the Garden of Eden, symbolizing divine protection.
  • They are often depicted sitting on the Ark of the Covenant in Jewish tradition, representing the presence of God.
  • Christian theology views cherubim as more than just cute figures, seeing them as powerful spiritual beings that serve as messengers and protectors.

Art and Culture

  • In the Renaissance, artists like Raphael depicted cherubim in a way that emphasized their innocence and beauty.
  • Modern depictions often show cherubim with a playful or mischievous demeanor, sometimes used in advertisements and pop culture to convey cuteness.
  • They are a popular motif in decorative arts, often seen in home decor, tattoos, and illustrations to provide a whimsical touch.

Myth and Folklore

  • In some interpretations, cherubim are thought to wield great power, able to protect the realms of heaven and earth.
  • They are mentioned in various mythological texts, reinforcing the idea of serene guardianship across multiple cultures.
  • In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, cherubim are described as the highest order of angels in the celestial hierarchy.

Literature

  • Cherubim appear in John Milton's 'Paradise Lost', illustrating a complex relationship with humanity and divine authority.
  • In various children's literature, they are often characters that assist heroes or convey messages of hope and love.
  • Dante Alighieri's 'Divine Comedy' places cherubim in heavenly realms, emphasizing their role in the celestial order.

Origin of 'cherubim'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Hebrew word 'keruv', which means a guardian or a figure of protection.
  • In ancient Assyrian and Babylonian cultures, similar beings were depicted as guardians of important spaces, like temples and palaces.
  • The plural form 'cherubim' indicates there are multiple of these celestial beings in scriptures and art.

The word 'cherubim' comes from the Hebrew word 'kerub' (כְּרוּב), a term referring to a type of celestial being. In ancient texts, including the Bible, cherubim have been described in various forms, often associated with the presence of God. They appear in the Book of Genesis, where they are placed at the entrance of the Garden of Eden, wielding a flaming sword to guard the way to the Tree of Life. The concept of cherubim also appears in other religious traditions, influencing how these beings are interpreted across different cultures. Over time, the image of cherubim evolved from majestic guardians of the divine to quaint, childlike figures often seen in Renaissance art. This evolution reflects broader changes in theological interpretations and artistic expressions of divine beings.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,259, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.