יחזקאל, פרק י׳, פסוק י״ד

The prophetic vision of the holy living creatures reveals a reality where each being has four distinct faces looking in different directions. However, a profound shift occurs here compared to Ezekiel's initial vision. Previously, one of the faces was that of an ox, but now it has transformed into the face of a cherub [רש"י].

Commentators explain this transformation on two levels. The primary approach is that Ezekiel pleaded for mercy on behalf of the Israelites. The face of an ox serves as a harsh reminder of the sin of the Golden Calf. Since an entity associated with accusation cannot serve as an advocate for the people, the ox had to be replaced [רד"ק, מצודת דוד]. Furthermore, at this point in the vision, God's leadership flows from a place where mercy overcomes strict justice. The ox originally represented the side of harsh judgment and severity. It was replaced by a cherub to awaken compassion. Even though the Temple was actively being destroyed in the vision, this act itself was rooted in God's mercy. He chose to pour out His anger on wood and stones rather than completely destroying the Israelites [מלבי"ם].

This transformation raises a question regarding the difference between the newly formed face of a cherub and the face of a human, as both appear to have human features. The distinction lies in the origin of the word for cherub. Rooted in the Babylonian language, the term translates to meaning "like a child" [רד"ק, מצודת ציון]. Therefore, commentators agree that the face of a cherub resembles the small, youthful features of a child, while the face of a human represents the mature features of an adult [מצודת דוד, רד"ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ].