What Is the Difference Between Cherubim and Seraphim?

The main difference between the types of heavenly beings known as cherubim and seraphim is their appearance: cherubim have four faces and four wings, while seraphim have six wings. In the Bible, the main role of both the cherubim and seraphim is to sit at the throne and worship God.

Cherubim appear in several books of the Bible, including Genesis, Ezekiel, Kings and Revelations. Their four faces are ox, lion, man and eagle, although Ezekiel exchanges the ox for the face of a cherub. They move fast, using a wheel within a wheel, and their wings cover their body.

Seraphim only appear in the book of Isaiah. Their name means “burning ones, flying serpents.” Seraphim use two of their wings for flight. As the cherubim, they are among the highest order of angelic beings.