Then I looked, and, behold, in the firmament that was above the head of the cherubims there appeared over them as it were a sapphire stone, as the appearance of the likeness of a throne.
Ver. 1. Then I looked, and behold in the firmament.] Heb, In that expanse or firmament mentioned, Ezekiel 1:22 .
That was above the head of the cherubims.] Called before "living creatures." Ezekiel 1:5 ; Ezekiel 1:13,15 ; Eze 1:19 Now God is represented as in his temple, where things are more clearly descried and described. Psa 29:9 In his temple doth every one speak of his glory. Cherubims the angels are called, from the greatness of their knowledge, saith Jerome, as God's Rabbis; or rather, because the Lord rideth upon them Psalms 80:1 ; Psa 99:1 as upon his chariot. 1Ch 28:18 Here they are said to be under the firmament and near the throne to execute God's commands with expedition. It is not therefore as those miscreants said, Eze 9:9 The Lord hath forsaken the earth.
There appeared over them as it were a sapphire stone,] i.e., Jehovah in his glory.
As the appearance.] It was but as, and as the appearance: we cannot see God as he is. Some have seen Mercabah velo harocheb, say the Hebrews, the chariot, but not the rider therein.