Angels, Cherubim, and Seraphim
Three distinct celestial beings are mentioned in Scripture: angels, cherubim, and seraphim.
“Are they not all ministering spirits, sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1: 14).
Angels appear throughout Scripture. The word angel comes from the Greek word “angelos” meaning “messenger.” The corresponding Hebrew word is “malakh” also meaning “messenger.”
The terms are sometimes used to designate human messengers (Hag. 1:13, Mal. 2:7), but most often are used to refer to supernatural, celestial beings. In instances when the term refers to human beings it is identifying them as messengers of God as are supernatural angels, that is, messengers.
To my limited knowledge the Bible does not describe them as having wings. Mythology and medieval art represent them as having wings, and thus a current concept is that they have wings. This incorrect representation is further encouraged by confusing them with the two other supernatural beings now to be identified.
The words Cherub and Cherubim in speaking of “angels’ wings” occur about a hundred times in the Bible. Only in the Bible translation entitled “God’s Word,” is the Hebrew “k?r? ?m” rendered “angels’ wings.” All others translate it “cherubim.” That one reads: “The sound of the angels’ wings was heard as far as the outer courtyard” (Ezekiel 10: 5). All other Bibles translated it more accurately as “cherubim.”
Another form of supernatural, creating beings is cherubim. This word comes from the Greek, “cherubim” or Hebrew, “kerubim.” Their primary task is that of serving as guards. They guard the way to the tree of life (Gen. 3:24), and either support or flank the throne of God (Psalm 80:1; 99:1).
Cherubim are spoken of as being winged. Their swiftness is spoken of as being like the wind. They were mysterious, heavenly beings represented as winged lions with human faces (Ezek. 41:18ff) .
Two wooden replicas of cherubim, gold covered with wings outspread, were placed over the cover or “mercy seat” of the Ark of the Covenant, protecting the holy contents.
Seraphim form a third order of celestial beings and are spoken of as being winged (Isaiah 6:2,3) . The word is from the Hebrew “saraph.” They are mentioned only once in the Bible, and that is in the Old Testament. They appear to be attendants waiting to carry out the bequests of the Lord.
Most scholars consider these three orders as separate forms of celestial beings.
Much is said in Scripture regarding angels watching over us that is a mystery. There are some “mysteries of the faith,” regarding angels watch over us that is not fully understood. God has told us all we need to know. Accept it and thank Him.