Among all biblical creatures, the seraphim remains the most mysterious. They are often associated with God’s holiness and glory. They are explicitly mentioned in Isaiah 6 and play a unique role in heaven. Here are 9 Biblical truths about seraphim that every Christian should know.
Seraphim are Fiery Beings
The word seraphim likely comes from the Hebrew root saraph, which means “to burn.” This indicates their association with fire as a symbol of purity, holiness, and the consuming nature of God’s presence.
They Stand Beside God
“I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying.” – Isaiah 6:2
Isaiah 6:2 reveals that the seraphim are stationed around God’s throne, ministering to His holiness and serving in proximity to His presence. The position denotes nearness to God’s majesty.
They Declare God’s Holiness And Their Presence Shakes Heaven
“And one cried to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; The whole earth is full of His glory!” And the posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out, and the house was filled with smoke.” – Isaiah 6:3-4
The seraphim cry out day and night, and their triple repetition of “holy” speaks of God’s supreme and unique holiness.
When they proclaim God’s holiness, the foundations of the heavenly temple shake, and it is filled with smoke; this shows the overwhelming power of their worship and the majesty of God’s throne.
Their continual declaration of God’s holiness underlines their main role as worshipers in heaven. They lead a heavenly chorus that reflects the glory of God’s presence.
They Work as Purifiers
“Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coal which he had taken with the tongs from the altar. And he touched my mouth with it, and said: “Behold, this has touched your lips; Your iniquity is taken away, And your sin purged.” – Isaiah 6:6-7
One of the seraphim takes a burning coal to purify Isaiah’s lips, symbolizing the removal of sin and impartation of divine readiness. This act emphasizes their role in preparing God’s servants for ministry.
They Are Creatures of Humility
In God’s presence, the seraphim covers their faces and feet with their wings, showing great humility and reverence before the Creator. Even in their exalted position, they recognize God’s unparalleled supremacy.
Seraphim Operate Under God’s Command
Everything they do or any movement they make is by God’s leading, as seen when one Seraph flies to Isaiah with a burning coal. That is to say, their actions denoted obedience as servants to do God’s perfect will.
They Reflect God’s Glory
The seraphim are described as fiery in nature, and their association with the throne of God shows that they are visions of God’s glory. Their presence emphasizes the intensity and brilliance of His holiness.
Seraphim Inspire Awe and Fear
Isaiah’s encounter with the seraphim overwhelms him, leading him to confess his unworthiness and sinfulness. Their presence underlines God’s holiness and the need for purification in His presence.
They Are Unique Among Angels
While the Bible mentions other angels, such as cherubim, the seraphim are unique in their description and function. Their specific association with worship and purification makes them different from any other creature in heaven.
A Glimpse Into Heaven’s Glory
The seraphim remind us of God’s holiness and the awe-inspiring nature of His heavenly court. As fiery beings given to worship and service, they challenge us to reflect on our own response to God’s holiness: Are we living lives of worship and humility, ready to serve His purposes?
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Susan is a mother of four beautiful babies and a born-again Christian. She took over Hope No Matter What in 2024 and enjoys sharing her knowledge of the goodness and faithfulness of God. Her passion is to bring hope and encouragement to others, and she prays that by sharing her knowledge and personal story, she can inspire others to find enlightenment in God's word.