John Calvin Commentary Ezekiel 1:27

"And I saw as it were glowing metal, as the appearance of fire within it round about, from the appearance of his loins and upward; and from the appearance of his loins and downward I saw as it were the appearance of fire, and there was brightness round about him." — Ezekiel 1:27 (ASV)

By these words, the Prophet indicates that God appeared so visibly in the form of a man that the splendor dazzled his eyes. For if the appearance of Christ was such that the Prophet could consider each part separately—as when I observe a man, I not only look at his form from head to foot, but I also consider the nature of his eyes, his physique, and his stature, whether tall or short.

When we look at men or trees, a glance is sufficient for distinguishing their various parts. But if we wish to look at the sun, our eyes are immediately dimmed, for the brightness of the sun is so great that it dazzles us. So then, if our eyes cannot bear the light of the sun, how can the glance of our mind penetrate even to God and comprehend the fullness of His glory?

This, then, is what the Prophet means when he says, I saw as it were the color of amber. We have said that some interpreters understand an angel to be meant here, but in my judgment, their view is erroneous; therefore, I reject it, for I have no doubt that color is meant, and indeed, a particular kind of color.

Regarding Jerome’s version, electrum, I consider it doubtful: as for his claim that it is more precious than gold and silver, this is foolish, because it is composed of both metals. However, its color was remarkable, because it not only attracted the Prophet's eyes but also dazzled them with its splendor, so that he acknowledged it as celestial and divine.

Therefore, he adds, there was as it were the appearance of fire within—which we have previously explained—and round about it.

The fire was evident, so that the Prophet might understand that there were some marks of the glory of God. At the same time, he was to perceive (as we shall ultimately see) that this vision would otherwise be useless unless he restrained himself within proper limits: because when the majesty of God encounters us, it can destroy even the angels themselves.

What, therefore, would become of us? But God adapts Himself to our capacities, so that visions may be useful to us only when we avoid pride and are not carried away by foolish and bold curiosity.

He then says, the fire appeared upwards and downwards, that is, above and below his loins, and the fire was brilliant round about. Afterwards, he adds—