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The Cherubim were originally the ancient protectors of the Mesopotamian Tree of Life. They were often depicted supporting the thrones of deities and kings.They are closely related to (and often identical to) the sphinx.
In the Judeeo-Christian tradition, they are the four vast, winged creatures desribed in the visions of Ezekiel, each winged creature bearing four faces: a lion, a bull, eagle, and human head.
In later Christian tradition, the four Cherubim (tetramorphs) are associated with the four evangelists of the New Testament.
In ceremonial magick, the four kerubim are the living energy of the tetragrammaton, and rulers of the fixed signs of the zodiac. Kabbalistically, the Order of Cherubim correspond to the sphere of Chokmah.
The chubby baby angels we commonly refer to as "cherubs" are in fact "putti," and are carry-overs from Roman paganism.
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Mesopotamian Kerub protecting the Tree of Life
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nineteenth century depiction of Cherubs
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