Keraia
Exodus 33

Exodus 33:15

The Promise of God’s Presence · Exodus 33:12–23
Read Exodus 33

Translations

Modern
“If Your Presence does not go with us,” Moses replied, “do not lead us up from here.
Traditional
And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence.
Literal
And he said to Him, “If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from this place.
Latin
Et ait Moyses: Si non tu ipse præcedas, ne educas nos de loco isto.

Original

Hebrew
English
“If Your Presence does not go with us,” Moses replied, “do not lead us up from here.

Notes

Exodus 33:15–16

Moses made his request more direct. He showed he understood God's actions. The exodus was not just about leaving Egypt for Canaan. It was about experiencing God personally, which would change their lives. Without this, staying at Mount Sinai would have been better. Going to Canaan without the Lord would be disastrous.

Exodus 33:12–23

Moses begged God to go with him and the people to the promised land. In these verses, the word Presence usually translates a Hebrew word that literally means “face” (33:14–15).

Earlier in the chapter, we learn that the Lord spoke with Moses "face to face" (33:11). This phrase describes a close and direct relationship. It does not mean that Moses saw God’s physical face. It means that God spoke with Moses in a clear and personal way.

Moses wanted that same close relationship to continue. He did not want God to send only an angel or messenger. He wanted God’s own presence to go with them. Moses also wanted the people to share in that relationship in some way.

Events

Glossary

Book of Exodus Deuteronomy, Book of History of Israel Tabernacle

Topics

Boldness: Instances of, in Prayer: Moses Cloud of Glory: Called: The Presence of God Communion with God: Moses Fellowship with God Fellowship with the Wicked God: Guide Intercession: Answered: After the Complaining of the People Prayer: Importunity in Moses