What is the meaning of Exodus 34:35?

And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face shone: and Moses put the vail upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.

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Exodus 34:35 Bible Verse Meaning

Understanding Exodus 34:35

The Bible verse Exodus 34:35 states:

"And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face shone; and Moses put the veil upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him."

This verse conveys a profound moment where Moses, after speaking with God, radiated glory, which required him to wear a veil. To comprehend the significance of this passage, we can look into various commentaries that shed light on its deeper meanings.

Bible Verse Meanings and Interpretations

Exodus 34:35 is rich in theological implications. Below, we explore insights from respected public domain commentaries:

  • Matthew Henry's Commentary:

    Henry emphasizes that Moses' shining face was a reflection of his communion with God. It symbolizes how a believer's life can shine with the glory of God when they are in close fellowship with Him. Furthermore, the veil represents a separation; it serves as a buffer to shield the people from the raw glory of God that Moses had experienced.

  • Albert Barnes' Notes:

    Barnes elaborates on the idea that the brightness of Moses’ face was not permanent and might have faded, symbolizing the temporary nature of the Law and its glory. He contrasts this with the enduring glory found in the New Covenant through Jesus Christ, suggesting that whereas Moses wore a veil to conceal the fading glory, believers today have unfettered access to God's presence.

  • Adam Clarke's Commentary:

    Clarke examines the cultural context, suggesting that the veil was also a means of communicating respect for the divine presence. He points out that Moses' shining face was a clear indication of his authority and closeness to God, serving as an affirmation for the Israelites of God’s marvelous power and presence.

In-depth Bible Verse Analysis

To fully grasp Exodus 34:35, we must delve into the themes presented within:

  • The Glory of God:

    The brilliance of Moses' face illustrates the transformative power of standing in God's presence. It invites readers to reflect on their own relationship with God and how it influences their lives.

  • The Role of Intercessors:

    Moses acts as an intercessor for Israel, which is a critical theological role. His radiant face is a sign of God's acceptance and love, emphasizing the importance of prayer and mediation in spiritual life.

  • Veiling as Protection:

    The veil serves as a protective measure for the Israelites. It teaches an important lesson about God's holiness and the need for mediation when approaching Him.

Historical Context of the Passage

This passage occurs after Moses received the Ten Commandments and reestablishes the covenant between God and Israel. The glowing face of Moses serves as a testament to God's favor during a pivotal moment in Israel's history.

Application of Exodus 34:35 to Daily Life

Understanding the significance of Exodus 34:35 extends beyond mere interpretation. It has practical applications for daily living:

  • Radiating God’s Glory: Believers are called to let their light shine before others (Matthew 5:16). This verse encourages Christians to reflect God's love and attributes in their lives.
  • The Importance of Spiritual Practices: Just as Moses sought God's presence, believers are reminded to engage in prayer, Scripture reading, and fellowship to strengthen their relationship with God.
  • Respect for the Holiness of God: The veil symbolizes reverence for God's holiness, reminding us that approaching Him must be done with respect and understanding of His glory.

Additional Reflections and Cross-references

To further enrich the study of Exodus 34:35, consider these cross-references:

  • 2 Corinthians 3:7-18: Highlights the difference between the glory of the Old Covenant and the New Covenant in Christ.
  • John 1:14: The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth, showing the fulfillment of God's glory in Christ.
  • Hebrews 10:19-22: Discusses access to God through Jesus, contrasting the veiled approach of Moses to the bold access Christians now have.

Conclusion

Exodus 34:35 holds profound implications for understanding Scripture, particularly about the nature of God's glory and the role of mediation. Through thoughtful reflection and application, believers can glean significant Bible study insights from this passage.