#bible #angels #biblical angels #cherub, plural cherubim, in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic literature, a celestial winged being with human, animal, or birdlike characteristics who functions as a throne bearer of the Deity. Derived from ancient Middle Eastern mythology and iconography, these celestial beings serve important liturgical and intercessory functions in the hierarchy of angels. The term most likely derives from the Akkadian kāribu, or kūribu (from the verb karābu, meaning “to pray” or “to bless”).