The term “Shekinah Glory” does not explicitly appear in the Bible, but it is a theological construct derived from Jewish tradition and widely used in Evangelical theology to describe the manifest, visible presence of God among His people.
Meaning and Etymology #
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The word “Shekinah” comes from the Hebrew root שָׁכַן (shakan), meaning “to dwell” or “to settle.” It is related to the word mishkan, which means “tabernacle” or “dwelling place.”
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“Shekinah” as a noun is not found in the biblical Hebrew text, but Jewish rabbis began using it in the Targums and rabbinic literature to describe God’s indwelling presence, especially in the Temple, the Tabernacle, and among His people.
Biblical Foundations #
Though the word itself is absent, the concept of Shekinah Glory is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative:
Old Testament Manifestations #
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Exodus 24:16–17: “The glory of the Lord dwelt on Mount Sinai…” a visible, fiery presence covered the mountain.
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Exodus 40:34–35: “Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.” this represents the Shekinah entering the Tabernacle.
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1 Kings 8:10–11: At Solomon’s Temple dedication, “the cloud filled the house of the Lord… for the glory of the Lord filled the house of the Lord.”
New Testament Parallels #
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John 1:14: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory…” the Greek word for “dwelt” (eskēnōsen) is related to tabernacle, suggesting a direct link to the Shekinah concept.
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Hebrews 1:3: Christ is described as “the radiance of the glory of God.”
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Matthew 17:1–8 (Transfiguration): Jesus’ glory is visibly revealed, echoing Shekinah manifestations.
Theological Significance #
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The Shekinah represents God’s desire to dwell with His people, first in the Garden, then the Tabernacle, then the Temple, and ultimately in Christ and the Holy Spirit.
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Ezekiel 10 and 11 describe the departure of the glory from the Temple due to Israel’s sin. The return of God’s presence in Ezekiel 43 is seen as a prophecy of eschatological hope.
Summary in Evangelical Theology #
In Evangelical circles, Shekinah Glory often signifies:
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God’s manifest presence during worship or revival
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The visible signs of God’s holiness, like fire, cloud, or light
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A foretaste of the glory to come in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:3, 23)
This idea deeply influences charismatic and revivalist traditions, where worship is often seen as a venue for Shekinah to manifest.
