Exodus 13:22
He took not away the pillar of the cloud by day, nor the pillar of fire by night, from before the people.
Original Language Analysis
לֹֽא
H3808
לֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יָמִ֞ישׁ
He took not away
H4185
יָמִ֞ישׁ
He took not away
Strong's:
H4185
Word #:
2 of 10
to withdraw (both literally and figuratively, whether intransitive or transitive)
וְעַמּ֥וּד
nor the pillar
H5982
וְעַמּ֥וּד
nor the pillar
Strong's:
H5982
Word #:
3 of 10
a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform
הֶֽעָנָן֙
of the cloud
H6051
הֶֽעָנָן֙
of the cloud
Strong's:
H6051
Word #:
4 of 10
a cloud (as covering the sky), i.e., the nimbus or thunder-cloud
וְעַמּ֥וּד
nor the pillar
H5982
וְעַמּ֥וּד
nor the pillar
Strong's:
H5982
Word #:
6 of 10
a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform
לָ֑יְלָה
by night
H3915
לָ֑יְלָה
by night
Strong's:
H3915
Word #:
8 of 10
properly, a twist (away of the light), i.e., night; figuratively, adversity
Historical Context
This pillar remained for forty years until Israel entered Canaan. Its continuous presence demonstrated God's unchanging faithfulness despite Israel's frequent unfaithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's constant presence through changing circumstances strengthen confidence in His faithfulness?
- What does the pillar 'going before' the people teach about God preparing the way ahead of your journey?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The statement 'He took not away the pillar of the cloud by day, nor the pillar of fire by night' emphasizes constancy. God's guidance never ceased—through plains and mountains, encouragement and judgment, obedience and rebellion. The phrase 'from before the people' indicates the pillar led from the front, going ahead to prepare the way. Continuous divine presence meant they were never abandoned, even during judgment.