Cherub (Cherubim)

Cherubim is a celestial winged being with human, animal, or birdlike characteristics. This winged creatures have four faces, those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle. They are included among the angels, and in the Hebrew scriptures they are described as the throne bearers of God. Cherubim were probably thought of in the ancient Middle East as composite creatures like the winged creatures of Assyria. The late Christian art often represented them as a winged child or winged head of a child. They are symbolizing dignity, glory, and honor. With the seraphim they are said to be in the very presence of God. The color surrounding them is traditionally blue. The color blue is associated with the Cherubim, as the color red is with the Seraphim.