Interesting Facts

• The Ophannim are grouped together with the Seraphim and Cherubic in Enoch’s vision.
• Along with the Seraphim and Cherubic, the Ophannim are described as beings who do not sleep.
• Their primary function, alongside the Seraphim and Cherubic, is to guard the throne of the Lord’s glory.

Genealogy

• The sources identify the Ophannim as celestial beings, existing in the heavenly realm alongside the Seraphim and Cherubic.
• There is no information provided in these texts regarding their ancestry, birth, marital connections, or offspring, as they are presented as part of the divine retinue rather than as beings with a genealogical history in the human sense.

Historical Context

The mention of the Ophannim occurs within the context of Enoch’s spiritual ascent to the heavens and his vision of the celestial throne room. This vision takes place after the events of the descent of the Watchers and the subsequent increase of wickedness on earth, but before the great flood. The presence of the Ophannim, along with other high-ranking celestial beings, emphasizes the majesty, holiness, and power of the divine realm to which Enoch is granted access. Their role as guardians of God’s throne underscores the sacredness and inviolability of divine authority in a time when earthly order has been corrupted.

Narrative

The narrative role of the Ophannim in these excerpts is limited to their presence within Enoch’s vision of the heavenly throne room. They are not depicted as actively participating in the events unfolding on Earth or in the judgments being rendered against the fallen angels. Instead, their significance lies in their symbolic function as constant and vigilant guardians of God’s glory, highlighting the eternal and unchanging nature of the divine sovereignty. Their inclusion in the vision serves to paint a more complete picture of the celestial hierarchy and the environment surrounding the “Lord of Spirits” as described to Enoch, reinforcing the contrast between the chaotic and sinful state of the earth and the perfect order and holiness of heaven.