2 Chronicles 3:10

The figures shaped like cherubim were made of expensive wild olive wood and covered with gold. Similar carvings have been found in Mesopotamia, Syria, and Canaan. These figures were a key feature of ancient thrones. Cherubim were creatures that combined the symbolism for royalty (lion) with strength (bull), speed (eagle), and wisdom (human). Ancient temples in Phoenicia show the deity's throne supported by two animals. The sides of ancient Canaanite thrones were often shaped like cherubs. The cherubs in Solomon’s temple were unique because they were not meant to serve as a human throne. They were attached to the ark, which was the footstool of God’s throne. Their wings touched in the middle and extended to the walls of the throne room. There was no actual seat on the throne because none was needed.