Angelic Thrones: The Many-eyed Ones

Thrones, also known as Ophanim (Hebrew: אוֹפַנִּים ʼōp̄annīm), meaning “wheels,” are described in Ezekiel’s vision of the merkabah (chariot) in Ezekiel 1:15–21. These wheels are connected to Daniel 7:9, where they are called galgal, often described as “the wheels of galgallin” in a “fiery flame” and “burning fire.” They are shown as four eye-covered wheels, each formed from two nested wheels, moving together with the winged Cherubim beneath God’s throne. The wheels move in harmony with the Cherubim.

The Celestial Hierarchy of Dionysius refers to the Thrones from the Old Testament description as the Third Order of the First Sphere, the other two superior orders being the First Order, the Seraphim, and the Second Order, the Cherubim.

CHAPTER VII

Of the Seraphim, Cherubim and Thrones, and their first Hierarchy

The name of the most glorious and exalted Thrones denotes that which is exempt from and untainted by any base and earthly thing, and the supermundane ascent up the steep. For these have no part in that which is lowest, but dwell in fullest power, immovably and perfectly established in the Most High, and receive the Divine Immanence above all passion and matter, and manifest God, being attentively open to divine participations.

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Saint Thomas Aquinas

Reply to Objection 6 (Question 108/Article 6). The order of the "Thrones" excels the inferior orders as having an immediate knowledge of the types of the Divine works; whereas the "Cherubim" have the excellence of knowledge and the "Seraphim" the excellence of ardor. And although these two excellent attributes include the third, yet the gift belonging to the "Thrones" does not include the other two; and so the order of the "Thrones" is distinguished from the orders of the "Cherubim" and the "Seraphim." For it is a common rule in all things that the excellence of the inferior is contained in the superior, but not conversely. But Dionysius (Coel. Hier. vii) explains the name "Thrones" by its relation to material seats, in which we may consider four things.

First, the site; because seats are raised above the earth, and to the angels who are called "Thrones" are raised up to the immediate knowledge of the types of things in God.

Secondly, because in material seats is displayed strength, forasmuch as a person sits firmly on them. But here the reverse is the case; for the angels themselves are made firm by God.

Thirdly, because the seat receives him who sits thereon, and he can be carried thereupon; and so the angels receive God in themselves, and in a certain way bear Him to the inferior creatures.

Fourthly, because in its shape, a seat is open on one side to receive the sitter; and thus are the angels promptly open to receive God and to serve Him.

Primary Biblical References

• Ezekiel 1:15-21: As I looked at the living creatures, I saw a wheel on the ground beside each creature with its four faces… Wherever the spirit would go, they would go, and the wheels would rise along with them, for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.
• Ezekiel 10:9-17: This revisits Ezekiel’s initial vision and describes the wheels, emphasizing their close relationship to the cherubim. Verse 10 describes them as appearing “like a wheel intersecting a wheel,” and in verse 17 reiterates, “for the spirit of the living creatures was in them.”

Ezekiel 10:9-14 | And I looked, and behold, there were four wheels beside the cherubim, one beside each cherub; and the appearance of the wheels was like sparkling chrysolite. And as for their appearance, the four had the same likeness, as if a wheel were within a wheel. When they went, they went in any of their four directions without turning as they went, but in whatever direction the front wheel faced the others followed without turning as they went. And their rims, and their spokes, and the wheels were full of eyes round about—the wheels that the four of them had. As for the wheels, they were called in my hearing the whirling wheels. And every one had four faces: the first face was the face of the cherub, and the second face was the face of a man, and the third the face of a lion, and the fourth the face of an eagle.

Symbolic Imagery and Characteristics

1. Complex Movement. Ezekiel observes that the wheels move in perfect unison with the living creatures - likely cherubim - indicating that these wheels are more than mere transportation. Wherever the spirit led the creatures, the wheels moved in harmony. This unity reflects a synchronized obedience to the divine will.
2. Intersecting Structures. The wheels are described with an inner wheel intersecting or cutting through an outer wheel (Ezekiel 1:16). Many have contended that this visually impressive mechanism symbolizes the omnipresence and omnidirectional movement of the divine presence, able to move in all directions without turning.
3. Eyes. Later in Ezekiel 10:12, it is noted that the rims and the wheels were full of eyes. This detail often represents total knowledge and awareness, indicating that nothing is concealed from the One seated on the throne connected to these wheels.
4. Angelology. Outside of the immediate biblical text, later Jewish writings and Christian theological works have referred to the Ophanim as a distinct class of angels. While Scripture itself offers limited exposition beyond Ezekiel’s vision, the link between these wheels and the cherubim (Ezekiel 10:9) underscores their heavenly context. Daniel 7:9 also mentions that God’s throne has “wheels…ablaze with fire,” providing another glimpse of a throne imagery closely associated with divine authority.
5. Historical Consistency. Ancient manuscript finds support the consistency of Ezekiel’s text regarding these wheels. The Dead Sea Scrolls, dating as far back as the third century BC, align with the Septuagint and the Masoretic text in transmitting the vivid wheel imagery. This consistency underlines the integrity of the biblical accounts across centuries. Archaeological discoveries demonstrating the careful preservation of Hebrew scrolls add further evidence that the description of the Ophanim in Ezekiel has been faithfully transmitted.

Interpretations and Theological Significance

1. Sovereignty of God. In Ezekiel’s visions, the wheels connected to the divine throne highlight God’s complete and transcendent authority. The phrase in Ezekiel 1:20, “Wherever the spirit would go, they went,” conveys that nothing lies beyond God’s control or watchful care.
2. Omniscience. The “eyes” surrounding the Ophanim convey a sense of total awareness, symbolizing that the Creator is not distant or detached but deeply aware of every aspect of reality.
3. Splendor. In the early chapters of Ezekiel, the glory of God is highlighted through vivid images of cherubim, a majestic throne, and mysterious wheels.
4. Throne-Chariot. In the ancient Near East, gods were often depicted riding on throne-chariots. Ezekiel’s vision takes this familiar image and assigns all the glory and authority to the God of Israel alone. The vivid picture of layered wheels and living creatures makes it clear that God holds ultimate power over all things.

Practical Lessons and Reflections

• Reverence. The sheer wonder of the wheels and living creatures prompts both humility and worship. Such intricate and powerful images of the heavenly realm were intended to inspire awe in Ezekiel’s audience facing exile, reminding them that their God is still enthroned and ruling.
• Consolation. The vision conveys that divine authority does not waver, even when circumstances appear chaotic. As the wheels moved in perfect sync with the living creatures, believers can trust that God’s purposes continue despite earthly upheavals.
• Mystery. While various theological explanations exist, the Bible leaves certain elements of these wheels shrouded in mystery. This invites ongoing reflection and study, grounded in Scripture, about the nature of God’s heavenly realm.

The Broader Biblical Narrative

Ezekiel’s visions in chapters 1 and 10 give a glimpse of New Testament themes about God’s sovereign plan. The vivid imagery of God’s glory, the throne, and heavenly scenes connects to passages like Revelation 4:2-8, with its living creatures around the throne. Even though wheels aren’t mentioned in Revelation, Ezekiel’s descriptions set the stage for seeing God’s glory as reaching far beyond earthly limits.

Conclusion

The Ophanim are a fascinating and mysterious part of the Bible’s description of the divine throne and its heavenly attendants. Depicted with interlocking structures, countless eyes, and movements perfectly in sync with divine guidance, they highlight God’s power, all-seeing nature, and glory. Consistently described in ancient manuscripts, these passages inspire awe, reflection, and the assurance that the One above these wheels rules over all creation.

These fascinating wheels keep sparking the imagination of readers and scholars alike, showcasing the careful preservation of Scripture through the ages and reminding believers of the awe-inspiring majesty and ever-watchful presence of the One whose throne they support.