Exodus 34:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 34:9
9 And he said, If now I have found grace in thy sight, O Lord, let my Lord, I pray thee, go among us; for it is a stiffnecked people; and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for thine inheritance.
Chapter Context
Exodus 34 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, truth, fellowship. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 34:9
9 And he said, If now I have found grace in thy sight, O Lord, let my Lord, I pray thee, go among us; for it is a stiffnecked people; and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for thine inheritance.
Analysis
Moses intercedes based on God's revealed character, citing the divine attributes just proclaimed. He acknowledges Israel's 'stiffnecked' (קְשֵׁה־עֹרֶף, qesheh-oreph) nature—stubborn as oxen resisting the yoke—yet appeals for pardon (סָלַח, salach) and inheritance (נָחַל, nachal). Moses asks God to 'go among us' despite their sin, trusting mercy over judgment. His prayer models intercession grounded in God's own promises and character.
Historical Context
God had previously threatened to send an angel rather than go personally among Israel (33:2-3). Moses here requests full restoration of divine presence.
Reflection
- How can we pray with confidence for mercy despite acknowledging our sin?
- What does Moses' intercession teach about the role of a mediator?
Word Studies
- Grace: חֵן (Chen) H2580 - Grace, favor
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 32:9, Deuteronomy 32:9, Psalms 33:12, 94:14, 135:4, Jeremiah 10:16
- Parallel theme: Exodus 19:5, Psalms 28:9, 78:62