Overview
Exodus 34 is a pivotal chapter where God renews His covenant with the Israelites after the golden calf incident. Major aspects of the chapter include:
New Tablets of the Law: God commands Moses to chisel out two new stone tablets and come up to Mount Sinai. There, God rewrites the Ten Commandments, replacing the tablets Moses broke.
God's Revelation to Moses: As Moses ascends the mountain, God reveals Himself, proclaiming His name and attributes - a God merciful, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.
Covenant Renewal: God reiterates the key aspects of His covenant, emphasizing the prohibition of idolatry, the observance of the annual feasts, and other commandments. This renewal underlines the Israelitesโ unique relationship with God and their obligations.
Moses' Radiant Face: After spending forty days and nights on the mountain without eating or drinking, Moses descends with the tablets. His face is radiant from speaking with God, frightening the Israelites. Moses then begins to wear a veil over his face after speaking with the people, removing it only to speak with God.
Exodus 34 not only signifies the restoration of the covenant relationship between God and Israel but also highlights Godโs mercy and willingness to forgive and continue His relationship with a repentant people. The chapter sets a pattern of faithful adherence to God's laws coupled with His enduring mercy and grace.