Mauro Biglino, a former Vatican Bible translator, offers a unique interpretation of the Bible, particularly focusing on the mechanical and literal meanings of certain biblical texts. In his analysis of the Book of Ezekiel, he argues that traditional interpretations often overlook the literal descriptions of concrete, observable events. Biglino believes that many accounts, including Ezekiel’s descriptions of Yahweh’s “Kavod,” refer to actual mechanical objects or phenomena rather than symbolic visions.

Ezekiel’s Kavod: A Mechanical Entity?

In Ezekiel Chapter 10, the prophet describes the “Kavod” of Yahweh in great detail. Traditionally understood as the “glory” of God, Biglino suggests that the Kavod may actually refer to a mechanical object connected to the cherubim. Ezekiel describes how the Kavod moves, makes noise, and can be heard by those outside the temple. According to Biglino, these descriptions are too specific and concrete to be symbolic. He argues that Ezekiel was witnessing a real event involving physical, mechanical phenomena.

The Translation of “Galgal”: Wheels or Turbines?

One of the key points in Biglino’s analysis is the Hebrew word “Galgal,” which is found in Ezekiel’s description of the Kavod. This term is often translated as “wheels,” but in some Bible versions, it has been rendered as “turbines” or “whirlwinds.” Biglino critiques these various translations, suggesting that the word refers to a mechanical component of the Kavod. He believes that the description of the Kavod, its movement, and its noise aligns more with a mechanical object—possibly a vehicle—rather than a symbolic or spiritual concept.

Misinterpretation of Biblical Texts

Biglino argues that many biblical translations have failed to capture the true meaning of the Hebrew text. He asserts that these translations are often influenced by theological perspectives that prefer to spiritualize or symbolize certain descriptions. However, Biglino emphasizes that Ezekiel’s account is full of precise details that point to real, physical phenomena. He critiques the tendency of translators to downplay these details and suggests that a literal interpretation is necessary to understand the original intent of the text.

Concrete Descriptions in Ezekiel

Ezekiel’s account goes on to describe the Kavod rising together with the cherubim. Biglino notes that the descriptions of noise, movement, and mechanical elements suggest that Ezekiel was not experiencing a vision but witnessing real events. The specific nature of the descriptions—such as the noise of the Kavod being heard by those outside the temple—indicates that these events were observable and tangible, rather than purely symbolic.

Mauro Biglino’s interpretation of the Book of Ezekiel challenges traditional religious teachings, proposing that biblical descriptions of the Kavod refer to real, physical objects rather than symbolic or spiritual visions. By analyzing the Hebrew word “Galgal” and its various translations, Biglino argues for a literal interpretation of the text, suggesting that Ezekiel was documenting actual events involving mechanical entities. His work invites readers to reconsider long-held interpretations of biblical narratives, emphasizing the importance of understanding the original language and intent of the scriptures.

How did things end up like this? Could there be more to the story than we realise?