Transported in a prophetic vision to the Temple in Jerusalem, the prophet arrives at the entrance of the inner courtyard and witnesses the glory of the God of Israel. The primary approach among commentators is that this is a direct revelation of the Divine Presence. It features the full image of the divine chariot, including its intricate details such as the living creatures, the wheels, and the firmament [אברבנאל, ביאור שטיינזלץ].
This encounter forms part of a consistent chain of divine revelations. The prophet recognizes the current sight as the exact same vision he previously experienced in the valley, which was identical to his very first revelation by the Chebar river [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, אברבנאל]. This recurring vision, where God is revealed upon a chariot, appears to the prophet time and again [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. By linking the visions seen in exile with the events currently unfolding in Jerusalem, this sequence emphasizes God's constant presence and His ongoing supervision over the actions of the people.
The appearance of God's glory at this specific location and moment carries a clear message. It demonstrates to the prophet that God is closely watching the abominations the Israelites are committing right inside the Temple. Ultimately, this undeniable divine presence directly refutes the heretical claims of the sinners, who wrongly convinced themselves that God does not see their actions [אברבנאל].