Exodus 33:16
Exodus 33:16 in Multiple Translations
For how then can it be known that Your people and I have found favor in Your sight, unless You go with us? How else will we be distinguished from all the other people on the face of the earth?”
For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth.
For wherein now shall it be known that I have found favor in thy sight, I and thy people? is it not in that thou goest with us, so that we are separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth?
For is not the fact of your going with us the sign that I and this people have grace in your eyes, so that we, that is, I and your people, are separate from all other people on the face of the earth?
“How will others know that you are happy with me, and with your people, if you don't accompany us? How would anyone tell us apart—me and your people—from every other people who live on the earth?”
And wherein nowe shall it be knowen, that I and thy people haue found fauour in thy sight? shall it not be when thou goest with vs? so I, and thy people shall haue preeminence before all the people that are vpon the earth.
and in what is it known now, that I have found grace in Thine eyes — I and Thy people — is it not in Thy going with us? and we have been distinguished — I and Thy people — from all the people who [are] on the face of the ground.'
For how would people know that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people? Isn’t it that you go with us, so that we are separated, I and your people, from all the people who are on the surface of the earth?”
For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? Is it not in that thou goest with us? So shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth.
For how shall we be able to know, I and thy people, that we have found grace in thy sight, unless thou walk with us, that we may be glorified by all people that dwell upon the earth?
The only way that other people will know that you are pleased with me and with your people is if you go with us [RHQ]! ◄If you go with us, that will show that we are different from all the other people on the earth./If you do not go with us, what will show that we are different from all the other people on the earth?►” [RHQ]
Berean Amplified Bible — Exodus 33:16
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Exodus 33:16 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וּ/בַ/מֶּ֣ה
יִוָּדַ֣ע
אֵפ֗וֹא
כִּֽי
מָצָ֨אתִי
חֵ֤ן
בְּ/עֵינֶ֨י/ךָ֙
אֲנִ֣י
וְ/עַמֶּ֔/ךָ
הֲ/ל֖וֹא
בְּ/לֶכְתְּ/ךָ֣
עִמָּ֑/נוּ
וְ/נִפְלֵ֨ינוּ֙
אֲנִ֣י
וְ/עַמְּ/ךָ֔
מִ/כָּ֨ל
הָ/עָ֔ם
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
עַל
פְּנֵ֥י
הָ/אֲדָמָֽה
וּ/בַ/מֶּ֣ה
mâh
H4100
what?
Conj | Prep | Part
יִוָּדַ֣ע
yâdaʻ
H3045
to know
V-Niphal-Imperf-3ms
אֵפ֗וֹא
ʼêphôw
H645
then
Adv
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
מָצָ֨אתִי
mâtsâʼ
H4672
to find
V-Qal-Perf-1cs
חֵ֤ן
chên
H2580
favor
N-ms
בְּ/עֵינֶ֨י/ךָ֙
ʻayin
H5869
eye
Prep | N-cd | Suff
אֲנִ֣י
ʼănîy
H589
I
Pron
וְ/עַמֶּ֔/ךָ
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Conj | N-ms | Suff
הֲ/ל֖וֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part | Part
בְּ/לֶכְתְּ/ךָ֣
yâlak
H3212
to walk
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
עִמָּ֑/נוּ
ʻim
H5973
with
Prep | Suff
וְ/נִפְלֵ֨ינוּ֙
pâlâh
H6395
be distinguished
Conj | V-Niphal-1cp
אֲנִ֣י
ʼănîy
H589
I
Pron
וְ/עַמְּ/ךָ֔
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Conj | N-ms | Suff
מִ/כָּ֨ל
kôl
H3605
all
Prep | N-ms
הָ/עָ֔ם
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Art | N-ms
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
פְּנֵ֥י
pânîym
H6440
face
N-cp
הָ/אֲדָמָֽה
ʼădâmâh
H127
land
Art | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Exodus 33:16
וּ/בַ/מֶּ֣ה
mâh
H4100
"what?"
Conj | Prep | Part
This Hebrew word means what or how, often used to ask questions or express surprise, like in Genesis when God asks Adam what he has done. It can also mean why or when, and is used in various ways throughout the Old Testament. It appears in many KJV translations, including how or what.
Definition: interr pron 1) what, how, of what kind 1a) (interrogative) 1a1) what? 1a2) of what kind 1a3) what? (rhetorical) 1a4) whatsoever, whatever, what 1b) (adverb) 1b1) how, how now 1b2) why 1b3) how! (exclamation) 1c) (with prep) 1c1) wherein?, whereby?, wherewith?, by what means? 1c2) because of what? 1c3) the like of what? 1c3a) how much?, how many?, how often? 1c3b) for how long? 1c4) for what reason?, why?, to what purpose? 1c5) until when?, how long?, upon what?, wherefore? indef pron 2) anything, aught, what may
Usage: Occurs in 655 OT verses. KJV: how (long, oft, (-soever)), (no-) thing, what (end, good, purpose, thing), whereby(-fore, -in, -to, -with), (for) why. See also: Genesis 2:19; Numbers 21:5; 1 Samuel 19:5.
יִוָּדַ֣ע
yâdaʻ
H3045
"to know"
V-Niphal-Imperf-3ms
The Hebrew word for to know means to ascertain by seeing, and is used in many senses, including to learn, perceive, and recognize, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to know 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to know 1a1a) to know, learn to know 1a1b) to perceive 1a1c) to perceive and see, find out and discern 1a1d) to discriminate, distinguish 1a1e) to know by experience 1a1f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess 1a1g) to consider 1a2) to know, be acquainted with 1a3) to know (a person carnally) 1a4) to know how, be skilful in 1a5) to have knowledge, be wise 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed 1b2) to make oneself known 1b3) to be perceived 1b4) to be instructed 1c) (Piel) to cause to know 1d) (Poal) to cause to know 1e) (Pual) 1e1) to be known 1e2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle) 1f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare 1g) (Hophal) to be made known 1h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself Aramaic equivalent: ye.da (יְדַע "to know" H3046)
Usage: Occurs in 874 OT verses. KJV: acknowledge, acquaintance(-ted with), advise, answer, appoint, assuredly, be aware, (un-) awares, can(-not), certainly, comprehend, consider, [idiom] could they, cunning, declare, be diligent, (can, cause to) discern, discover, endued with, familiar friend, famous, feel, can have, be (ig-) norant, instruct, kinsfolk, kinsman, (cause to let, make) know, (come to give, have, take) knowledge, have (knowledge), (be, make, make to be, make self) known, [phrase] be learned, [phrase] lie by man, mark, perceive, privy to, [idiom] prognosticator, regard, have respect, skilful, shew, can (man of) skill, be sure, of a surety, teach, (can) tell, understand, have (understanding), [idiom] will be, wist, wit, wot. See also: Genesis 3:5; Leviticus 5:4; Judges 21:12.
אֵפ֗וֹא
ʼêphôw
H645
"then"
Adv
This Hebrew word is used to point to a specific time or place, often translated as then or now. In Genesis 26:22, Isaac uses this word to mark the time when he finally finds success and prosperity.
Definition: 1) then, now, so 1a) (who) then, (what) then (with interrog) 1b) then (with imperative-i.e. know then) 1c) if...then (with adv)
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: here, now, where? See also: Genesis 27:33; Job 17:15; Proverbs 6:3.
כִּֽי
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
מָצָ֨אתִי
mâtsâʼ
H4672
"to find"
V-Qal-Perf-1cs
Matsa means to find or attain something, whether it is a physical object, a person, or a condition, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to find, attain to 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to find 1a1a) to find, secure, acquire, get (thing sought) 1a1b) to find (what is lost) 1a1c) to meet, encounter 1a1d) to find (a condition) 1a1e) to learn, devise 1a2) to find out 1a2a) to find out 1a2b) to detect 1a2c) to guess 1a3) to come upon, light upon 1a3a) to happen upon, meet, fall in with 1a3b) to hit 1a3c) to befall 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be found 1b1a) to be encountered, be lighted upon, be discovered 1b1b) to appear, be recognised 1b1c) to be discovered, be detected 1b1d) to be gained, be secured 1b2) to be, be found 1b2a) to be found in 1b2b) to be in the possession of 1b2c) to be found in (a place), happen to be 1b2d) to be left (after war) 1b2e) to be present 1b2f) to prove to be 1b2g) to be found sufficient, be enough 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to find, attain 1c2) to cause to light upon, come upon, come 1c3) to cause to encounter 1c4) to present (offering)
Usage: Occurs in 425 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] be able, befall, being, catch, [idiom] certainly, (cause to) come (on, to, to hand), deliver, be enough (cause to) find(-ing, occasion, out), get (hold upon), [idiom] have (here), be here, hit, be left, light (up-) on, meet (with), [idiom] occasion serve, (be) present, ready, speed, suffice, take hold on. See also: Genesis 2:20; Deuteronomy 22:3; 2 Kings 9:35.
חֵ֤ן
chên
H2580
"favor"
N-ms
This Hebrew word means showing kindness or favor to someone, like God's graciousness to humanity. It appears in the Bible as 'favor' or 'grace'.
Definition: 1) favour, grace, charm 1a) favour, grace, elegance 1b) favour, acceptance
Usage: Occurs in 67 OT verses. KJV: favour, grace(-ious), pleasant, precious, (well-) favoured. See also: Genesis 6:8; 1 Samuel 20:29; Psalms 45:3.
בְּ/עֵינֶ֨י/ךָ֙
ʻayin
H5869
"eye"
Prep | N-cd | Suff
This word can mean a spring or fountain, but also refers to the eye or a source of something. It is often translated as affliction, outward appearance, or countenance, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : eye 1) eye 1a) eye 1a1) of physical eye 1a2) as showing mental qualities 1a3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 828 OT verses. KJV: affliction, outward appearance, [phrase] before, [phrase] think best, colour, conceit, [phrase] be content, countenance, [phrase] displease, eye((-brow), (-d), -sight), face, [phrase] favour, fountain, furrow (from the margin), [idiom] him, [phrase] humble, knowledge, look, ([phrase] well), [idiom] me, open(-ly), [phrase] (not) please, presence, [phrase] regard, resemblance, sight, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them, [phrase] think, [idiom] us, well, [idiom] you(-rselves). See also: Genesis 3:5; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 28:67.
אֲנִ֣י
ʼănîy
H589
"I"
Pron
This Hebrew word is a simple way of saying 'I' or 'me', often used for emphasis. It is used by people like David in the Psalms to express their thoughts and feelings. The word is a basic part of the Hebrew language.
Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis)
Usage: Occurs in 803 OT verses. KJV: I, (as for) me, mine, myself, we, [idiom] which, [idiom] who. See also: Genesis 6:17; Leviticus 19:36; 1 Samuel 25:24.
וְ/עַמֶּ֔/ךָ
ʻam
H5971
"Amaw"
Conj | N-ms | Suff
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
הֲ/ל֖וֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part | Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
בְּ/לֶכְתְּ/ךָ֣
yâlak
H3212
"to walk"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
To walk or go, this verb means to move from one place to another, used literally or figuratively, as in to live or die, or to lead someone.
Definition: 1) to go, walk, come 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away 1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.) 1b) (Hiphil) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk
Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] again, away, bear, bring, carry (away), come (away), depart, flow, [phrase] follow(-ing), get (away, hence, him), (cause to, made) go (away, -ing, -ne, one's way, out), grow, lead (forth), let down, march, prosper, [phrase] pursue, cause to run, spread, take away (-journey), vanish, (cause to) walk(-ing), wax, [idiom] be weak. See also: Genesis 3:14; Exodus 5:8; Deuteronomy 28:14.
עִמָּ֑/נוּ
ʻim
H5973
"with"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.
Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as
Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.
וְ/נִפְלֵ֨ינוּ֙
pâlâh
H6395
"be distinguished"
Conj | V-Niphal-1cp
This word means to be distinct or separated from others. It can also mean to be wonderful or set apart. In the Bible, it is used to describe people or things that are unique or special, like a miracle or a wonder.
Definition: 1) to be distinct, marked out, be separated, be distinguished 1a) (Niphal) 1a1) to be distinct, be separated, be distinguished 1a2) to be wonderful 1b) (Hiphil) to make separate, set apart
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: put a difference, show marvellous, separate, set apart, sever, make wonderfully. See also: Exodus 8:18; Exodus 33:16; Psalms 4:4.
אֲנִ֣י
ʼănîy
H589
"I"
Pron
This Hebrew word is a simple way of saying 'I' or 'me', often used for emphasis. It is used by people like David in the Psalms to express their thoughts and feelings. The word is a basic part of the Hebrew language.
Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis)
Usage: Occurs in 803 OT verses. KJV: I, (as for) me, mine, myself, we, [idiom] which, [idiom] who. See also: Genesis 6:17; Leviticus 19:36; 1 Samuel 25:24.
וְ/עַמְּ/ךָ֔
ʻam
H5971
"Amaw"
Conj | N-ms | Suff
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
מִ/כָּ֨ל
kôl
H3605
"all"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
הָ/עָ֔ם
ʻam
H5971
"Amaw"
Art | N-ms
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
פְּנֵ֥י
pânîym
H6440
"face"
N-cp
This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.
Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.
הָ/אֲדָמָֽה
ʼădâmâh
H127
"land"
Art | N-fs
This Hebrew word refers to the earth or soil, often describing the ground as a source of sustenance. It is used to describe the physical earth, a plot of land, or even a whole country. The KJV translates it as 'country', 'earth', or 'land'.
Definition: : soil 1) ground, land 1a) ground (as general, tilled, yielding sustenance) 1b) piece of ground, a specific plot of land 1c) earth substance (for building or constructing) 1d) ground as earth's visible surface 1e) land, territory, country 1f) whole inhabited earth 1g) city in Naphtali
Usage: Occurs in 211 OT verses. KJV: country, earth, ground, husband(-man) (-ry), land. See also: Genesis 1:25; 1 Kings 8:40; Psalms 49:12.
Study Notes — Exodus 33:16
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Exodus 33:16 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Exodus 33:16
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Exodus 33:16
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Exodus 33:16
- Trapp's Commentary on Exodus 33:16
- Ellicott's Commentary on Exodus 33:16
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Exodus 33:16
- Cambridge Bible on Exodus 33:16
- Barnes' Notes on Exodus 33:16
- Whedon's Commentary on Exodus 33:16
- Sermons on Exodus 33:16
Context — The Promise of God’s Presence
14And the LORD answered, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
15“If Your Presence does not go with us,” Moses replied, “do not lead us up from here.
16For how then can it be known that Your people and I have found favor in Your sight, unless You go with us? How else will we be distinguished from all the other people on the face of the earth?”
17So the LORD said to Moses, “I will do this very thing you have asked, for you have found favor in My sight, and I know you by name.” 18Then Moses said, “Please show me Your glory.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deuteronomy 4:7 | For what nation is great enough to have a god as near to them as the LORD our God is to us whenever we call on Him? |
| 2 | Numbers 14:14 | And they will tell it to the inhabitants of this land. They have already heard that You, O LORD, are in the midst of this people, that You, O LORD, have been seen face to face, that Your cloud stands over them, and that You go before them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. |
| 3 | 1 Kings 8:53 | For You, O Lord GOD, as Your inheritance, have set them apart from all the peoples of the earth, as You spoke through Your servant Moses when You brought our fathers out of Egypt.” |
| 4 | Matthew 1:23 | “Behold, the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel” (which means, “God with us” ). |
| 5 | Exodus 34:10 | And the LORD said, “Behold, I am making a covenant. Before all your people I will perform wonders that have never been done in any nation in all the world. All the people among whom you live will see the LORD’s work, for it is an awesome thing that I am doing with you. |
| 6 | 2 Samuel 7:23 | And who is like Your people Israel—the one nation on earth whom God went out to redeem as a people for Himself and to make a name for Himself? You performed great and awesome wonders by driving out nations and their gods from before Your people, whom You redeemed for Yourself from Egypt. |
| 7 | 2 Corinthians 6:17 | “Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.” |
| 8 | Exodus 8:22 | But on that day I will give special treatment to the land of Goshen, where My people live; no swarms of flies will be found there. In this way you will know that I, the LORD, am in the land. |
| 9 | Exodus 19:5–6 | Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine. And unto Me you shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you are to speak to the Israelites.” |
| 10 | Deuteronomy 4:34 | Or has any god tried to take as his own a nation out of another nation—by trials, signs, wonders, and war, by a strong hand and an outstretched arm, and by great terrors—as the LORD your God did for you in Egypt, before your eyes? |
Exodus 33:16 Summary
Exodus 33:16 is a beautiful expression of Moses' desire to have God's presence with the Israelites, so that they can be sure of His love and favor. Moses is saying that if God doesn't go with them, they won't be any different from anyone else, but with God, they will be a special people, set apart by His love (as seen in Deuteronomy 7:6). This verse reminds us that God's presence is what makes us distinct and special, and that we should seek to prioritize His presence in our lives, just like Moses did (as seen in Psalm 16:11). By seeking God's presence, we can experience His love and guidance, and live a life that honors Him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Moses asking God to do in Exodus 33:16?
Moses is asking God to accompany the Israelites on their journey, so that it will be clear to everyone that they have found favor with God, as seen in Exodus 33:16 and supported by God's promise in Exodus 33:14.
How does this verse relate to the concept of God's presence?
This verse highlights the importance of God's presence in the lives of believers, as seen in Exodus 33:15, where Moses says that without God's presence, the Israelites should not proceed, and in Psalm 16:11, which says that God's presence is the source of fullness of joy.
What does it mean to be distinguished from all other people on the face of the earth?
According to Exodus 33:16, being distinguished means that the Israelites will be set apart as God's special people, as also seen in Deuteronomy 7:6, where God says that the Israelites are a holy people, chosen by God to be His own possession.
How does this verse apply to Christians today?
Just like the Israelites, Christians are called to be a distinct people, set apart by God's presence in their lives, as seen in 2 Corinthians 6:16, which says that we are the temple of the living God, and in 1 Peter 2:9, which says that we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood.
Reflection Questions
- What does it mean to have God's presence in my life, and how can I experience it today?
- In what ways can I be a distinct representative of God's love and character in my community?
- How can I, like Moses, prioritize God's presence and guidance in my decisions and actions?
- What are some ways that I can seek to be set apart for God's purposes, and to live a life that honors Him?
Gill's Exposition on Exodus 33:16
For wherein shall it be known here,.... At Sinai, among the mountains in the wilderness: that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight: were acceptable to him, highly esteemed by him, and had
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Exodus 33:16
And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Exodus 33:16
Wherein shall it be known here? by what other token shall other nations and after-ages know? So shall we be separated, i.e. distinguished by thy peculiar kindness and privileges afforded to us. Or, be made wonderful, or eminent, or glorious above all other people.
Trapp's Commentary on Exodus 33:16
Exodus 33:16 For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? [is it] not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that [are] upon the face of the earth.Ver. 16. So shall we be separated.] Heb., Marvellously separated. The separation of the saints is a wonderful separation. See Deuteronomy 4:7; also Isaiah 20:6, where Judea is for this cause called an "isle."
Ellicott's Commentary on Exodus 33:16
MOSES OBTAINS A RENEWAL OF GOD’S PROMISE TO GO UP WITH THE PEOPLE.(12-17) The self-humiliation of the people (Exodus 33:4-6) had appeased God’s anger. He was now ready to be entreated. Moses therefore renews his supplications on their behalf, and especially prays for a revocation of the threatened withdrawal of the Divine Presence, and substitution for it of a mere angel. Taking advantage of his privilege to speak to God as friend with friend (Exodus 33:11), he ventures to expostulate, uses familiar terms, and persists until he at last obtains a distinct declaration that his request is granted (Exodus 33:17).
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Exodus 33:16
Verse 16. So shall we be separated] By having this Divine protection we shall be saved from idolatry, and be preserved in thy truth and in the true worshipping of thee; and thus shall we be separated from all the people that are upon the face of the earth: as all the nations of the world, the Jews only excepted, were at this time idolaters.
Cambridge Bible on Exodus 33:16
16. For how can it be known that they stand in Jehovah’s favour except by His personally accompanying them, and thereby shewing that they are distinguished from all other nations of the earth? separated, &c.] The word, as Exodus 8:22, Exodus 9:4, Exodus 11:7 (Heb.): for the thought, cf. Exodus 19:5, Deuteronomy 7:6, 1 Kings 8:53 (a different Heb. word).
Barnes' Notes on Exodus 33:16
Thou goest with us - It was this which alone distinguished (rather than “separated”) them from other nations, and which alone would render the land of promise a home to be desired. Compare 2 Samuel 7:23.
Whedon's Commentary on Exodus 33:16
16. So shall we be separated — That is, notably distinguished from all the people that are upon the face of the earth, in having the manifest presence of Jehovah among them.
Sermons on Exodus 33:16
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Disappointments Can Be Dangerous by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a pastor who falls asleep while traveling and has a dream about a ladder reaching into heaven. He sees angels coming and going, sy |
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The Great Evil of All Sin - Part 2 by Richard Owen Roberts | This sermon delves into the concept of sin and its roots, emphasizing that all individuals are born as sinners and children of the devil, not as children of God. It explores the st |
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Our One Message by Hans R. Waldvogel | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus Christ as the way to truth, holiness, righteousness, and health. The message centers around the idea that we |
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The People of God 09 a Separated People by James K. Boswell | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the concept of being a separated people as Christians. He emphasizes that this separation is not about legalistic rules or restrictions, but |
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But God by A.B. Simpson | A.B. Simpson emphasizes the supernatural nature of faith and the necessity of complete dependence on God, as exemplified by the Israelites in the wilderness. He argues that true st |
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Winter Afore Harvest or the Soul's Growth in Grace - Part 4 by J.C. Philpot | J.C. Philpot preaches about the transformative journey of a believer's soul through trials and tribulations, leading to a deep reliance on Christ for all things, the crushing of pr |
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Heavenly Teaching by J.C. Philpot | J.C. Philpot preaches about the divine teaching of God in the souls of His children, emphasizing the necessity of this heavenly instruction for spiritual growth and understanding. |