Exodus 33:21
And the LORD said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock:
Original Language Analysis
יְהוָ֔ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֔ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
מָק֖וֹם
Behold there is a place
H4725
מָק֖וֹם
Behold there is a place
Strong's:
H4725
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
אִתִּ֑י
H853
אִתִּ֑י
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וְנִצַּבְתָּ֖
by me and thou shalt stand
H5324
וְנִצַּבְתָּ֖
by me and thou shalt stand
Strong's:
H5324
Word #:
6 of 8
to station, in various applications (literally or figuratively)
Historical Context
Mount Sinai/Horeb's rocky terrain provided natural clefts and outcroppings. This specific location would shield Moses while allowing the theophany. The rock imagery pervades Scripture as a metaphor for God's strength and reliability (Deuteronomy 32:4, Psalm 18:2).
Questions for Reflection
- How does standing on 'the Rock' (Christ) enable you to experience God's glory without being destroyed?
- What does God's careful orchestration of Moses' encounter teach about His attention to our capacity and safety in revelation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And the LORD said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock—God prepares a specific location for revelation. The rock (צוּר, tsur) becomes both physical platform and theological symbol—Christ is identified as the Rock (1 Corinthians 10:4). The phrase 'a place by me' indicates proximity without complete exposure. God orchestrates the encounter carefully, demonstrating that even privileged revelation comes on divine terms, at divine locations, with divine protection. The rock represents stability amid overwhelming glory, a foundation that won't crumble under the weight (kavod) of God's passing.