Description
The “mercy seat” was a lid that covered the Covenant Box (see Covenant Box, Ark of the Covenant). It was rectangular with the same dimensions as the top of the Covenant Box. It was made of beaten gold. Standing on its top were two golden figures with wings, called literally “cherubim” (see Winged creatures, cherubim).
Usage
Besides serving as a top for the Covenant Box, the atonement lid (or, cover) was the focal point for an annual act of atonement by the High Priest of the Jewish people. Once a year, on the Day of Atonement (see LEV 16:14; LEV 16:15), the priest sprinkled blood from sacrificial animals on and in front of the atonement lid.
Translation
The Hebrew word kaporeth comes from a root meaning “to cover,” but this may be understood in two different ways in the context of the Covenant Box. It may refer to the “covering” or forgiving of sin (that is, “atonement”), or it may simply mean a “covering” or lid on top of the Covenant Box. Possibly the Hebrew word contained both of these elements of meaning in this context. JB renders it “throne of mercy” (although NJB reverts to “mercy-seat”). NIV has “atonement cover.” Many other versions have simply “cover” (NJPSV, FRCL, Mft, NEB). Most French versions have propitiatoire (TOB; compare AT “propitiatory”), which places the emphasis on the “atonement” or “forgiveness” domain of meaning in the word kaporeth. All things considered, it is probably better to translate “lid” or “cover.”