יחזקאל, פרק א׳, פסוק כ״ה

High above the heavenly expanse, a distinct sound marks the origin of Divine communication. The primary approach among commentators is that this voice would resonate from between the cherubim whenever God chose to deliver His message to His prophets. Expanding on this, [מלבי"ם] explains that the voice sounding from above represents a profound shift in how the universe is governed. It signifies a state where God leads His world directly from the Throne of Glory, entirely without the mediation of the heavenly creatures.

In response to this voice, the celestial beings react with sudden stillness. Halting their constant motion, they stand completely quiet and allow their wings to drop [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The relationship between the voice and this pause is direct: the moment God speaks, the creatures cease their rushing to ensure absolute silence [מצודת דוד].

Commentators offer different perspectives on exactly why the creatures let their wings fall. [רש"י] attributes this physical reaction to the intense awe and dread brought on by the Divine speech. Taking a more functional approach, [מלבי"ם] explains that because God is acting directly and sounding His own voice, the creatures must pause their usual duties. Their wings fall slack because, during this moment of direct Divine intervention, they are no longer receiving the Divine energy required to actively operate within the world.