Ezekiel sees the Glory of Yahweh preparing to leave the Temple. The vision of chapter 1 returns, now identified with the cherubim; coals of fire are taken from between them and scattered over the city as the Glory moves toward the east gate.
Coals of fire from the cherubim (Ezekiel 10:1–8)
Above the firmament is the likeness of a sapphire throne. The man in linen is told to take coals from between the wheels under the cherub and scatter them over Jerusalem. The cloud fills the inner court and the house with the brightness of Yahweh’s Glory. A cherub reaches into the fire and gives the coals to the man; the fire signifies the city’s coming judgment.
The wheels and cherubim (Ezekiel 10:9–17)
Four beryl-like wheels stand beside the cherubim, each described as a wheel within a wheel. Their bodies, hands, wings and wheels are full of eyes, and their movement is perfectly coordinated by the spirit of the living creature within them.
The Glory moves to the east gate (Ezekiel 10:18–19)
The Glory departs from the threshold and stands above the cherubim. They rise and move to the east gate of Yahweh’s house, marking another stage in the Glory’s withdrawal.
Ezekiel recognises the cherubim (Ezekiel 10:20–22)
Ezekiel recognises these living creatures as the cherubim he saw by the river Chebar. Their faces, wings and human-like hands match the opening vision, and each moves straight forward.
The chapter’s message
Jerusalem’s judgment proceeds from the divine presence, while the Glory withdraws in stages rather than disappearing at once. The cherubim and wheels show purposeful, coordinated action under Yahweh’s direction.