Commentary

What does Exodus 34:4 mean?

“And he hewed two tables of stone like unto the first; and Moses rose up early in the morning, and went up unto mount Sinai, as the LORD had commanded him, and took in his hand the two tables of stone.” — Exodus 34:4

Commentary Devotional Prayer

Exodus 34:4 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "And he hewed two tables of stone like unto the first; and Moses rose up early in the morning, and went up unto mount Sinai, as the Lord had commanded him, and took in his hand the two tables of stone."

This verse is part of the larger narrative of the Book of Exodus, which tells the story of the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. In this particular verse, Moses is preparing to receive the Ten Commandments from God for a second time, after the first set of tablets was broken in anger by Moses upon seeing the Israelites worshiping a golden calf.

The theme of obedience and faithfulness to God's commands is central to this verse. Despite the Israelites' unfaithfulness and disobedience, God shows his mercy and grace by giving them a second chance to receive his law. The fact that Moses rises early in the morning to fulfill God's command demonstrates his dedication and obedience to God's will.

The context of this verse is significant in understanding its meaning. The Israelites had just experienced a major setback in their relationship with God, as they had turned away from Him and worshiped a false idol. In response, God had demonstrated His anger and had even threatened to destroy the entire nation. However, Moses interceded on behalf of the people, and God relented from His anger. Now, Moses is going back up to Mount Sinai to receive a new set of stone tablets containing the Ten Commandments, symbolizing a renewal of the covenant between God and His people.

The act of "hewing two tables of stone like unto the first" is important in this verse. It demonstrates God's faithfulness and his willingness to give the Israelites a second chance. In hewing new tablets, God is offering the people a fresh start and an opportunity to live in accordance with His commandments. This act also symbolizes the unchanging nature of God's law and His commitment to His people, despite their shortcomings.

Furthermore, the imagery of Moses going up unto Mount Sinai evokes the concept of ascending to receive divine revelation. Mount Sinai is the sacred place where God's presence was manifested, and it is where God had originally given Moses the Ten Commandments. Moses' journey up the mountain represents his spiritual ascent and his closeness to God, as he prepares to receive the written law that will guide the nation of Israel.

Symbolically, the two tablets of stone represent the dual nature of God's law – one side representing the commandments relating to our relationship with God and the other side pertaining to our relationship with others. The symmetry and balance of the tablets reflect the importance of both aspects of the law in living a righteous and holy life.

In conclusion, Exodus 34:4 is a verse that speaks to the themes of God's mercy, faithfulness, and the renewal of His covenant with His people. It emphasizes the importance of obedience, faithfulness, and the unchanging nature of God's law. The context and symbolism surrounding this verse deepen its significance, as it highlights God's willingness to offer second chances and His desire for His people to live in accordance with His commandments.

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Exodus 34:4 - "¶ And he hewed two tables of stone like unto the first; and Moses rose up early in the morning, and went up unto mount Sinai, as the LORD had commanded him, and took in his hand the two tables of stone."

"¶ And he hewed two tables of stone like unto the first; and Moses rose up early in the morning, and went up unto mount Sinai, as the LORD had commanded him, and took in his hand the two tables of stone." - Exodus 34:4