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Cherubim vs. Seraphim

By July 1, 2000November 9th, 2022No Comments

Q.

What is the difference between cherubim and seraphim?

A.
Both classes are God’s special angels. Other than to make this distinction, attempts to distinguish them have been rather feeble. Some equate one of the classes with the holiness of God; but then the other class is associated with His holiness too.

“Cherubim” have been associated with the highest of God’s angelic orders; they proclaim and protect God’s holiness, sovereignty, and presence. “Seraphim” is related to “burning” or “shining,” indicating that they glow with a holy brilliance and proclaim man’s sinfulness and need for cleansing. Only one Scripture reference records them specifically: Isaiah 6:1‒4. But seraphim, too, are consumed with the adoration of God.

This article appeared in the “Q & A” column of the Baptist Bulletin (July 2000) by Norman A. Olson. 

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