The faces of the two golden keruvim (cherubs) were fashioned to resemble the faces of infants. Baal Haturim explains that this symbolized G‑d’s love and affection for the Jewish people, comparing it to one’s love for his baby or small child.
Parents’ love for their children is not related to or conditional upon the child’s qualities or accomplishments. Parents are inherently one with their children, and therefore love them unconditionally. This is particularly evident by the way parents adore their infant children, well before the child’s qualities and virtues can be seen.
Because the soul of every Jew is “a veritable part of G‑d above,” G‑d holds us dear with an intrinsic, essential and unbreakable love, like the love parents have for their children.
The keruvim therefore resembled babies, symbolizing that G‑d’s love for the Jewish people is not dependent on our accomplishments; it transcends the relationship we forge with Him by studying His Torah and observing His commandments.
—Likkutei Sichos, vol. 26, p. 181
