In today's world, Ezekiel's cherub in Eden occupies a central place in society, whether on a personal, political, social or cultural level. Its importance lies in its influence on different aspects of daily life, as well as its role in history and human development. Over time, Ezekiel's cherub in Eden has been the subject of debate, study and reflection, generating conflicting opinions and passionate discussions. From its impact on the economy to its role in individual identity, Ezekiel's cherub in Eden has proven to be a topic of universal interest that invites us to reflect on who we are and where we are headed. In this article, we will explore the various facets of Ezekiel's cherub in Eden, analyzing its meaning and its impact on the world today.
The cherub in Eden is a figure mentioned in Ezekiel 28:13–14. Many translations, including the New International Version, identify the cherub with the King of Tyre, specifically Ithobaal III (reigned 591–573 BC) who according to the list of kings of Tyre of Josephus was reigning contemporary with Ezekiel at the time of the first fall of Jerusalem.[1][2] Other translations, including the New Revised Standard Version, see the cherub as the king's guardian.
Ezekiel has cited Eden in two extensive passages and one of these (28:11-19) portrayed the king of Tyre in terms of the cherub in Eden.[3] The city is famed for the temple complex of Melkart with its renowned garden enclosure.[4]
Tertullian in Against Marcion 2:10 linked the reference to the fall of Satan.[5] This has been followed by many Christians since.[6] Its theological interpretation is subject to much theorizing. One recognized that the prophet depicted such cherub within a primordial perfection, which was terminated by sin and consequent exile from the "mountain of God".[3] A theory also posited that Eden was a simile for the portrayal of the splendor of a given geographical area, which in this case is Tyre and that its human king represented Satan, who was an angel in the garden in Genesis 3.[4]