Exodus 33:12-13

Moses and the Glory of the LORD

12 Moses said to the LORD, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’

13 If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.”

Exodus 33:12-13 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO EXODUS 33

This chapter informs us, that the Lord refusing to go with the people, only sending an angel with them, they are filled with concern, and troubled, Ex 33:1-6. Moses upon this pitched the tabernacle without the camp, where everyone that sought the Lord went; Moses entered into it himself, and the Lord talked to him in a friendly manner in the cloudy pillar that stood at the door of it, and the people worshipped, every man at his own tent door; all which foreboded good, and tended to reconciliation, Ex 33:7-11. Moses improved the opportunity, and entreats the presence of God to go with them, which was granted, Ex 33:12-17 and that he might have a sight of the glory of God; and this is promised to pass before him, he being put into the cleft of the rock, Ex 33:18-23.

Cross References

• 1. Exodus 3:10; S Exodus 15:17
• 2. ver 17; Isaiah 43:1; Isaiah 45:3; Isaiah 49:1; John 10:14-15; 2 Timothy 2:19
• 3. S Genesis 6:8
• 4. Psalms 25:4; Psalms 27:11; Psalms 51:13; Psalms 86:11; Psalms 103:7; Psalms 143:8; Psalms 119:33
• 5. Exodus 3:7; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 9:26,29; Psalms 77:15