6th Century BC (During the Babylonian Exile)
The Israelites were in exile in Babylon, having been taken captive after the fall of Jerusalem. The Jewish people were grappling with the loss of their homeland and the destruction of the Temple.
Babylon was the dominant empire, having conquered Judah and other surrounding nations. Nebuchadnezzar II was the king of Babylon during this period.
The vision takes place in Jerusalem, specifically in the Temple, although Ezekiel himself is physically in Babylon by the River Chebar.
The Jewish people were living under Babylonian rule, maintaining their religious identity in a foreign land. The Temple in Jerusalem was central to their faith, and its destruction was a significant spiritual crisis.
Ezekiel
Cherubim
Heavenly beings associated with the presence and glory of God, depicted in the vision.