Keraia
Exodus 33

Exodus 33:18

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

Translations

Modern
Then Moses said, “Please show me Your glory.”
Traditional
And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.
Literal
And he said, “Show me, please, Your glory.”
Latin
Qui ait: Ostende mihi gloriam tuam.

Original

Hebrew
English
Then Moses said, “Please show me Your glory.”

Notes

Exodus 33:18

Moses asked for confirmation of God’s promises. He asked to see God’s glorious presence (literally glory). He was asking for an experience of seeing the very essence of God (see study note on 16:7).

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

Bible, Quotations of the Old Testament in the New Testament Book of Exodus Deuteronomy, Book of Glory God, Being and Attributes of History of Israel Philip Tabernacle

Topics

Boldness: Instances of, in Prayer: Moses Communion with God: Moses Condescension of God: Indulges Moses' Prayer to Behold his Glory Glory of God: Exhibited to Moses God: Glory of Holy Boldness: Moses Journey of Israel Through The Desert: To Mount Sinai: God's Glory Shown to Moses Prayer by Moses, Supplicating for Assistance in Delivering Israel Prayer: Answer To, Promise The Glory of God: Exhibited to Moses Vision of Moses of the Glory of God