What is the context?
Above the creatures is an expanse gleaming like crystal. Their wings make a sound like many waters, the voice of the Almighty and an army’s tumult. When they stop, they lower their wings, and a voice comes from above the expanse.
There Ezekiel sees the likeness of a sapphire throne, with a figure like a man seated high above. Fire, an amber-like gleam and surrounding brilliance mark the appearance. The radiance resembles a rainbow in a rainy cloud.
Ezekiel repeatedly describes likeness and appearance as he relates what he sees. He identifies the whole scene as the appearance of the likeness of the Lord’s glory. His response is to fall facedown and listen to the speaking voice.
The scene ends with the throne and the Lord’s voice above everything else. The creatures and wheels belong within this revelation of His rule, rather than being the final focus of the vision.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Henry and Wesley understand the humanlike figure through Christ, the Son of God, appearing in royal glory. They also connect the rainbow with God’s covenant mercy alongside the fire of judgment.
The USCCB notes emphasize the portrayal of the transcendent God in the likeness of an enthroned human king, and connect the throne scene with the sapphire-like pavement in Exodus 24.
These explanations approach the figure from different angles. The passage itself names the vision as the Lord’s glory and places Ezekiel in reverent attention before His word.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Revelation 4:1–11 takes up the throne, rainbow, lightning, crystal-like surface and living creatures. The surrounding worship identifies the One on the throne as the eternal Creator, showing that the vision’s center is God’s glory and rule.
The New Testament also speaks directly about how God makes Himself known through His Son. Hebrews 1:1–4 calls the Son the radiance of God’s glory and describes Him seated at the right hand of the Majesty after providing purification for sins. Colossians 1:15–20 calls Him the image of the invisible God and joins His supremacy over creation with reconciliation through His cross.
These are broader connections rather than an explicit New Testament statement naming the figure in Ezekiel 1. They place the revelation of divine glory alongside the saving work of the Son, so that awe before God leads into hearing what He has made known through Christ.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.