“It was carved with cherubim and palm trees; and a palm tree was between cherub and cherub, and every cherub had two faces, a man’s face toward the palm tree on one side and a young lion’s face toward the palm tree on the other side; they were carved on all the house all around.” (Ezek. 41:18-19).
The above paragraph is from the scene of the inner temple which God described to Ezekiel. It was concerning what was on the outer and inner side of it. The description of the cherub is understood from the Bible as guardians appointed by God. Interestingly, God commanded there be the carved images of them on the inner temple. Each cherub with two faces is placed in such a way that they face a palm tree. There are three significant features to understand: the palm tree, man’s face and lion’s face. God does not do anything without a vision or meaning.
The palm tree – it chiefly reflects permanence or eternalness. It is green throughout the year. Something or someone will remain forever. Of course, its fruit too has important values. Again, its branches were used to welcome Jesus into Jerusalem as the King of Israel. And incidentally Jesus is alive and eternal.
Man’s face – it reflects the coming of Christ in the form of man. People will recognize Him in this form as the Son of God, Savior and King; and they did. Because this carving is in the temple, it can only be understood this way. And since a cherub bears it, it is only to bear the news of God for the days to come.
Lion’s face – it reflects power. Jesus is called the Lion of Judah. Though He is the Lamb of God, His power to overcome and keep all things at bay, i.e. possess all authority, is His most important trait.