Exodus 16:34 — Word Study
WLCכַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר צִוָּ֥ה יְהוָ֖ה אֶל־ מֹשֶׁ֑ה וַיַּנִּיחֵ֧הוּ אַהֲרֹ֛ן לִפְנֵ֥י הָעֵדֻ֖ת לְמִשְׁמָֽרֶת׃
BSAAnd AaronʼAhărôwn [the first high priest] in front ofpânîym [before the presence of] the Testimonyʻêdûwth [the witness of God's laws] to be preservedmishmereth [kept safe, protected] just asʼăsher [in accordance with] the LORDYᵉhôvâh [Yehovah, The covenant Name of God] had commandedtsâvâh■ [given orders to] MosesMôsheh [the Israelite leader]
| Greek | English | Parsing |
|---|---|---|
| כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר | just as | Preposition, particle |
| צִוָּ֥ה | he had commanded | Verb, Piel, perfect third person masculine singular |
| יְהוָ֖ה | Yahweh | Noun proper |
| אֶל־ | to | Preposition |
| מֹשֶׁ֑ה | Moses | Noun proper masculine |
| וַיַּנִּיחֵ֧הוּ | and he deposited it | Verb hiphil sequential imperfect third person masculine singular, suffix |
| אַהֲרֹ֛ן | Aaron | Noun proper masculine |
| לִפְנֵ֥י | before | Preposition, noun common masculine plural construct |
| הָעֵדֻ֖ת | the testimony | Particle, noun common feminine singular absolute |
| לְמִשְׁמָֽרֶת׃ | for keeping | Preposition, noun common feminine singular absolute |
Every word in the verse. Click a row to open it in the panel on the left.
| BSB | And Aaron placed it in front of the Testimony, to be preserved just as the LORD had commanded Moses. |
| KJV | As the LORD commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept. |
| ASV | As Jehovah commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept. |
| YLT | as Jehovah hath given commandment unto Moses, so doth Aaron let it rest before the Testimony, for a charge. |
| WEB | As Yahweh commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept. |
| BBE | So Aaron put it away in front of the holy chest to be kept, as the Lord gave orders to Moses. |
Where they part company is צִוָּ֥ה — see How Translations Differ.
The sentence is structured around a main action with additional phrases providing context and purpose, highlighting the significance of obedience.
8 commentators on this verse
Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them ›
clause
subjectיהוה
verbצָוָה
The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.
Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.
Deep Study — Exodus 16:34
Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.
Context — Instructions for the Mannagenerated
Exodus 16:34 describes how Aaron followed God's command to preserve a jar of manna before the Testimony, ensuring it would be kept safe for future generations. This action highlights the importance of obedience to God's directives, as seen throughout the journey of the Israelites in the wilderness. The Testimony represents God's covenant and laws, and the preserved manna serves as a reminder of His provision.
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Exodus 25:16–21 | And place inside the ark the Testimony, which I will give you. |
| 2 | Exodus 27:21 | In the Tent of Meeting, outside the veil that is in front of the Testimony, Aaron and his sons are to tend the lamps before the LORD from evening until morning. This is to be a permanent statute for the Israelites for the generations to come. |
| 3 | Exodus 30:6–36 | Place the altar in front of the veil that is before the ark of the Testimony —before the mercy seat that is over the Testimony—where I will meet with you. |
| 4 | Exodus 31:18 | When the LORD had finished speaking with Moses on Mount Sinai, He gave him the two tablets of the Testimony, tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God. |
| 5 | Exodus 38:21 | This is the inventory for the tabernacle, the tabernacle of the Testimony, as recorded at Moses’ command by the Levites under the direction of Ithamar son of Aaron the priest. |
The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 10 references, hung on the phrase they belong to
The Key Word — צִוָּ֥ה, tzi.Vahgenerated
The verb צִוָּה (*tsavah*) means to command or give orders. It is a Piel form verb, indicating a directive given by a higher authority, in this case, God commanding Moses.
This word is used frequently in the Old Testament to denote God's instructions to His people, emphasizing the importance of obedience and the establishment of roles within the community.
How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated
This study reads the verse in the Berean Standard Bible, so the BSB is the wording every comparison below is made against.
Sentence Structuregenerated
The main verb צִוָּ֥ה, he had commanded, governs the sentence, with Aaron's action of placing the manna as a direct response to that command. The structure indicates a clear sequence of obedience.
The sentence employs a prepositional phrase לִפְנֵ֥י, before, which establishes the location of the action, emphasizing the significance of the Testimony in the context of worship and remembrance.
Septuagint Backgroundgenerated
The Septuagint translates צִוָּ֥ה as συνέταχεν, indicating a similar sense of command but perhaps with a nuance of arrangement or order, reflecting the Greek understanding of the directive.
This choice shows a continuity in the concept of divine instruction, highlighting the importance of following God's commands in both the Hebrew and Greek traditions.
In plain words — the whole versegenerated
Exodus 16:34 tells us that Aaron placed a jar of manna in front of the Testimony to keep it safe, just as God had instructed Moses. This act underscores the importance of following God's commands and the significance of the Testimony in Israel's worship.
Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated
It signifies obedience to God's command and the importance of preserving the manna as a reminder of God's provision.
The manna was preserved to serve as a testimony of God's miraculous provision for the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness.
The Testimony refers to the tablets of the law that were kept in the Ark of the Covenant, representing God's covenant with His people.
It shows that God's commands are to be followed carefully, as they carry significance for the community and their relationship with Him.
Reflection Questionsgenerated
- How can I apply the principle of obedience to God's commands in my own life?
- What reminders of God's provision do I have in my life?
- In what ways can I ensure that I honor God's instructions in my daily actions?
- How does understanding the significance of the Testimony deepen my faith?
Commentators on this verse — 8 expositors, verse by verse
Each of these wrote on Exodus 16:34 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.
John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleAs the Lord commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the testimony, to be kept.
Read John Gill on Exodus 16 →Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's CommentaryAnd Moses said, This is the thing which the LORD commandeth, Fill an omer of it to be kept for your generations; that they may see the bread wherewith I have fed you in the wilderness, when I brought
Read Robert Jamieson on Exodus 16 →Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy Biblei.e. Before the ark, which is called the ark of the testimony, ; and here, by way of abbreviation, the testimony, or witness, because in it were the tables of the covenant, or the law of God, which was a testimony of God’ s authority and will, and of man’ s subjection and duty, or of the covenant made between God and man. See 31:26. Quest. How could this be laid up before the ark, when the ark was not yet built? Answ. This text only tells us that Aaron did lay it up, but it doth not determine the time, nor affirm that it was done at this instant, but rather intimates the contrary, and that it was done afterwards when the testimony, i.e. the ark, was built. As the next verse also speaks of…
Read Matthew Poole on Exodus 16 →John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New TestamentsExodus 16:34 As the LORD commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept.Ver. 34. To be kept.] For the use of succeeding ages in the most holy places. So Christ, glorified in his humanity, abides for ever.
Read John Trapp on Exodus 16 →Charles John Ellicott1819–1905Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers(32-35) And Moses said . . . Fill an omer.—This narrative, which must belong to a later date than any other part of Exodus, since it assumes that the Tabernacle is set up (Exodus 16:34), seems to have been placed here on account of its subject-matter. The writer wishes to conclude the history of the manna, and has two further points to note concerning it: (1) the preservation of an omer of it as a perpetual memorial (Exodus 16:32-34); and (2) the fact of its continuance until the Israelites reached the borders of Canaan. The passage is probably an addition to the original “Book,” but contains nothing that may not have been written by Moses.
Read Charles John Ellicott on Exodus 16 →AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the BibleVerse 34. Laid it up before the testimony] The עדות eduth or testimony belonged properly to the tabernacle, but that was not yet built. Some are of opinion that the tabernacle, built under the direction of Moses, was only a renewal of one that had existed in the patriarchal times. See Clarke on Exodus 16:9. The word signifies reference to something beyond itself; thus the tabernacle, the manna, the tables of stone, Aaron's rod, &c., all bore reference and testimony to that spiritual good which was yet to come, viz., JESUS CHRIST and his salvation.
Read AdamClarke on Exodus 16 →CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges34. before the Testimony] i.e. before the Ark, which contained the ‘Testimony,’ P’s standing expression for the Decalogue (see on Exodus 25:16): cf. Exodus 30:36, Numbers 17:4; Numbers 17:10. Cf. Hebrews 9:4.
Read Cambridge on Exodus 16 →Albert Barnes1798–1870Barnes' Notes on the BibleThe Testimony - See the marginal references.
Read Albert Barnes on Exodus 16 →The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company
Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.
Modern formal
And Aaron placed it in front of the Testimony, to be preserved just as the LORD had commanded Moses.
As Yahweh commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept.
And Aaron placed it in front of the Testimony, to be preserved just as the LORD had commanded Moses.
Just as the Lord commanded Moses, so Aaron placed it before the Testimony for safekeeping.
Tyndale line
As the LORD commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept.
As Jehovah commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept.
As the LORD commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept.
As the LORD commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept.
As the Lord commanded Moses, so Aaron laied it vp before the Testimonie to be kept.
Strictly literal
As Jehovah had commanded Moses, so Aaron deposited it before the Testimony, to be kept.
as Jehovah hath given commandment unto Moses, so doth Aaron let it rest before the Testimony, for a charge.
as YHWH has given command to Moses, so Aaron lets it rest before the Testimony, for a charge.
As the Lord had commanded Moses, so did Aaron lay it up before the Testimony, to be kept.
As Yahweh commanded Moses, Aaron stored it beside the covenant decrees in the ark.
From the Latin
As the Lord commanded Moses. And Aaron put it in the tabernacle to be kept.
Simplified
Aaron did so and placed the jar in front of the Testimony, to be preserved just as the Lord had ordered Moses.
So Aaron put it away in front of the holy chest to be kept, as the Lord gave orders to Moses.
Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.
The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank
This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.
Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.
The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran
The Masoretic Text is supported by the Septuagint, which matches the Hebrew closely in meaning and structure. The Samaritan Pentateuch differs slightly with the inclusion of an object marker and a different term for testimony, but the essential command remains intact.
כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר צִוָּ֥ה יְהוָ֖ה אֶל־ מֹשֶׁ֑ה וַיַּנִּיחֵ֧הוּ אַהֲרֹ֛ן לִפְנֵ֥י הָעֵדֻ֖ת לְמִשְׁמָֽרֶת׃
10 of the 10 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.
כאשׁר צוה יהוה את משׁה ויניחהו אהרן לפני העדות למשׁמרת
2 words differ from the Masoretic Text: את (
[כאשר] [צוה] [יהוה] [אל] משה ויניח׳הו אהרן לפני [העדת] [למשמרת]
4 words on the leather — 6 supplied entire by an editor.
[כאשר] צוה [יהוה] את משה [ויניח׳הו] [אהרן] [לפני] [העדת] [למשמרת]
1 word on the leather — 2 partly restored, 7 supplied entire by an editor.
Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.
The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with
This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.
Lexicons — every word in Exodus 16:34
One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.
Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.
The Hebrew word אֲשֶׁר (*asher*) is a relative pronoun that can mean 'who,' 'which,' or 'that.' It serves various grammatical functions, including as an adverb or conjunction, indicating relationships between clauses, places, or conditions. Variants like בַאֲשֶׁר (*ba-asher*), מֵאֲשֶׁר (*me-asher*), and כַּאֲשֶׁר (*ka-asher*) expand its usage to specific contexts such as location, causation, and time.
אֲשֶׁר part. of relation A sign of relation, bringing the clause introduced by it into relation with an antecedent clause.
base
בַאֲשֶׁר
in (that) which
adv. in (the place) where
conj. in that, inasmuch as
on account of whom?
base
מֵאֲשֶׁר
from (or than) that which
adv. from (the place) where
conj. from (the fact) that …, since
base
כַּאֲשֶׁר conj. according as, as, when
according to that which, according as, as
with a causal force, in so far as, since
with a temporal force, when
base
H834a אֲשֶׁר part. of relation A sign of relation, bringing the clause introduced by it into relation with an antecedent clause. H834b בַאֲשֶׁר . in (that) which
. adv. in (the place) where
. conj. in that, inasmuch as
. on account of whom?
H834c מֵאֲשֶׁר . from (or than) that which
. adv. from (the place) where
. conj. from (the fact) that …, since
H834d כַּאֲשֶׁר conj. according as, as, when . according to that which, according as, as
. with a causal force, in so far as, since
. with a temporal force, when
834 'aher ash-er'
a primitive relative pronoun (of every gender and number);
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction)
when, where, how, because, in order that, etc.:--X after, X
alike, as (soon as), because, X every, for, + forasmuch, +
from whence, + how(-soever), X if, (so) that ((thing) which,
wherein), X though, + until, + whatsoever, when, where
(+ -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, +
whither(- soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is
indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun
expletively, used to show the connection.
אֲשֶׁר (a.sher) — which.
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
בַאֲשֶׁר (ba.a.sher) — in which.
1) in (that) which
2) (adv)
2a) where
3) (conj)
3a) in that, inasmuch as
3b) on account of
מֵאֲשֶׁר (me.a.sher) — whence.
1) from (or than) that which
2) from (the place) where
3) from (the fact) that, since
כַּאֲשֶׁר (ka.a.sher) — as which.
conj
1) according as, as, when
1a) according to that which, according as, as
Prep | Rel — Preposition · particleHR/Tr
az: Conj. and adverb (usually Greek hos hosper, kathos), designating:
(1) Likeness: (a) between nouns (Ge 3:5; Jud 6:5; Php 2:8; Heb 11:27,29); (b) between verbs (Lu 6:36; Joh 5:30; 1Co 10:7); (c) between adjectives (1Co 15:48).
(2) Limitation (with respect to a particular aspect or relation) (1Pe 4:15,16).
צָוָה (tsavah) is a Hebrew verb meaning to command or give orders. It is built from a primitive root and primarily used in the Piel form, indicating actions like appointing or charging someone with a task. The entries highlight its various applications, including laying charges and sending messengers. There are no noted disagreements among the lexicons.
[צָוָה] 485 vb. Pi. lay charge (upon), give charge (to), charge, command, order
base
H6680 צָוָה Pi. lay charge (upon), give charge (to), charge, command, order
6680 tsavah tsaw-vaw'
a primitive root; (intensively) to constitute,
enjoin:--appoint, (for-)bid, (give a) charge, (give a, give
in, send with) command(-er, -ment), send a messenger, put,
(set) in order.
צָוָה (tsa.vah) — to command.
1) to command, charge, give orders, lay charge, give charge to, order
1a)(Piel)
1a1) to lay charge upon
1a2) to give charge to, give command to
1a3) to give charge unto
1a4) to give charge over, appoint
1a5) to give charge, command
1a6) to charge, command
1a7) to charge, commission
1a8) to command, appoint, ordain (of divine act)
1b) (Pual) to be commanded
V-Piel-Perf-3ms — Verb · Piel · perfect third person masculine singularHVpp3ms
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) is the proper name of the God of Israel, often rendered as Jehovah or the Lord. It signifies the self-existent or eternal nature of God. The name is closely associated with the revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:12-15 and is used in conjunction with other terms to denote sacred places. Some scholars suggest it derives from a root meaning 'to bring into being.'
יהוה c. 6823 i.e. יַהְוֶה n.pr.dei Yahweh, the proper name of the God of Israel—(1. MT יְהֹוָה 6518 (Qr אֲדֹנָי), or יֱהֹוִה 305 (Qr אֱלֹהִים) 2. Many recent scholars explain יַהְוֶה as Hiph. of הוה (= היה) the one bringing into being, life-giver)
יהוה is not used by E in Gn, but is given Ex 3:12-15 as the name of the God who revealed Himself to Moses at Horeb
יהוה is used with אלהים and suffixes, especially in D
the phrase † אֲנִי יהוה is noteworthy
יהוה is also used with several predicates, to form sacred names of holy places of Yahweh
base
H3068 יהוה i.e. יַהְוֶה n. pr. dei Yahweh, the proper name of the God of Israel
3068 Yhovah yeh-ho-vaw'
from 1961; (the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish
national name of God:--Jehovah, the Lord. Compare 3050, 3069.
see HEBREW for 01961
see HEBREW for 03050
see HEBREW for 03069
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — LORD.
Jehovah = "the existing One"
1) the proper name of the one true God
1a) unpronounced except with the vowel pointings of a.do.na (אֲדֹנָי "Lord" H0136)
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — The Lord.
Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — (Jerusalem of) the Lord.
Combined with ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
N-proper — Noun properHNpt
The Hebrew word אֶל (el) is primarily a preposition indicating motion towards or direction to a person or place. It can also imply entering a limit, presence at a location, or a hostile direction (against). Additionally, it may express concepts such as concerning, in addition to, or according to. The entries highlight its versatility in both physical and metaphorical contexts.
אֶל (nearly always followed by Makkeph),
prep. denoting motion to or direction towards (whether physical or mental).of motion to or unto a person or place
Where the limit is actually entered, into
Of direction towards anything
Where the motion or direction implied appears from the context to be of a hostile character, אֶל = against
Unto sometimes acquires from the context the sense of in addition to
Metaph. in regard to, concerning, on account of
Of rule or standard according to (rare)
Expressing presence at a spot, against, at, by, not merely after verbs implying motion
Prefixed to other preps. it combines with them the idea of motion or direction to
base
H413 אֶל (nearly always followed by Makkeph), . of motion to or unto a person or place
. Where the limit is actually entered, into
. Of direction towards anything
. Where the motion or direction implied appears from the context to be of a hostile character, אֶל = against
. Unto sometimes acquires from the context the sense of in addition to
. Metaph. in regard to, concerning, on account of
. Of rule or standard according to (rare)
. Expressing presence at a spot, against, at, by, not merely after verbs implying motion
. Prefixed to other preps. it combines with them the idea of motion or direction to
413 'el ale
(but only used in the shortened constructive form sel {el});
a primitive particle; properly, denoting motion towards, but
occasionally used of a quiescent position, i.e. near, with or
among; often in general, to:--about, according to ,after,
against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and,
by, concerning, for, from, X hath, in(- to), near, (out) of,
over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether,
with(-in).
אֶל (el) — to(wards).
1) to, toward, unto (of motion)
2) into (limit is actually entered)
2a) in among
3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion)
4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character)
5) in addition to, to
6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of
7) according to (rule or standard)
8) at, by, against (of one's presence)
9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
HR — PrepositionHR
מֹשֶׁה (Mosheh) refers to Moses, the prominent Hebrew leader, prophet, and lawgiver. The name is derived from the root meaning 'drawing out,' indicating his rescue from water. He is a key figure in the Old Testament, first mentioned in Exodus 2:10, and is known for leading the Israelites during the Exodus.
מֹשֶׁה 767 n.pr.m. Moses, the great Hebrew leader, prophet and lawgiver
base
H4872 מֹשֶׁה Moses, the great Hebrew leader, prophet and lawgiver
4872 Mosheh mo-sheh'
from 4871; drawing out (of the water), i.e. rescued; Mosheh,
the Israelite lawgiver:--Moses.
see HEBREW for 04871
מֹשֶׁה (mo.sheh) — Moses.
A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.2.10;
son of: Amram (H6019) and Jochebed (H3115);
brother of: Aaron (H0175) and Miriam (H4813); married to Zipporah (H6855);
father of: Gershom (H1647) and Eliezer (H0461H); also called Manasseh at Jdg.18.30(?)
§ Moses = "drawn"
the prophet and lawgiver, leader of the exodus
N-proper — Noun proper masculineHNpm
mo'-zez, mo'-ziz (mosheh; Egyptian mes, "drawn out," "born"; Septuagint Mouse(s)). The great Hebrew national hero, leader, author, law-giver and prophet.
I. LIFE
1. Son of Levi
2. Foundling Prince
3. Friend of the People
4. Refuge in Midian
5. Leader of Israel
II. WORK AND CHARACTER
1. The Author
2. The Lawgiver
3. The Prophet
LITERATURE
The traditional view of the Jewish church and of the Christian church, that Moses was a person and that the narrative with which his life-story is interwoven is real history, is in the main sustained by commentators and critics of all classes.
It is needless to mention the old writers among whom these questions were hardly under discussion. Among the advocates of the current radical criticism may be mentioned Stade and Renan, who minimize the historicity of the Bible narrative at this point. Renan thinks the narrative "may be very probable." Ewald, Wellhausen…
Moses
Drawn (or Egypt. mesu, “son;” hence Rameses, royal son). On the invitation of Pharaoh (Gen. 45:17-25), Jacob and his sons went down into Egypt. This immigration took place probably about 350 years before the birth of Moses. Some centuries before Joseph, Egypt had been conquered by a pastoral Semitic race from Asia, the Hyksos, who brought into cruel subjection the native Egyptians, who were an African race. Jacob and his retinue were accustomed to a shepherd’s life, and on their arrival in Egypt were received with favour by the king, who assigned them the “best of the land”, the land of Goshen, to dwell in. The Hyksos or “shepherd” king who thus showed favour to Joseph and his family was in all probability the Pharaoh Apopi (or Apopis).
(Heb. Mosheh , "drawn," i.e. from the water; in the Coptic it means "saved from the water"), the legislator of the Jewish people, and in a certain sense the founder of the Jewish religion. The immediate pedigree of Moses is as follows: Levi was the father of: Gershon -- Kohath -- Merari Kohath was the father of: Amram = Jochebed Amram = Jochebed was the father of: Hur = Miriam -- Aaron = Elisheba -- Moses = Zipporah Aaron = Elisheba was the father of: Nadab -- Abihu -- Eleazar -- Ithamar Eleazar was the father of: Phineas Moses = Zipporah was the father of: Gershom -- Eliezer Gershom was the father of: Jonathan The history of Moses naturally divides itself into three periods of 40 years each. Moses was born at Goshen, In Egypt, B.C. 1571. The story of his birth is thoroughly Egyptian in its scene. His mother made extraordinary efforts for his preservation from the general destruction of…
The name of the illustrious prophet and legislator of the Hebrews, who led them from Egypt to the Promised Land. Having been originally imposed by a native Egyptian princess, the word is no doubt Egyptian in its origin, and Josephus gives its true derivation—from the two Egyptian words, MO, water, and USE, saved. With this accords the Septuagint form, MOUSES. The Hebrews by a slight change accommodated it to their own language, as they did also in the case of some other foreign words; calling it MOSHIE, from the verb MASHA, to draw. See Ex 2:10. Moses was born about 15.71 B. C., the son of Amram and Jochebed, of the tribe of Levi, and the younger brother of Miriam and Aaron. His history is too extensive to permit insertion here, and in general too well known to need it. It is enough simply to remark, that it is divided into three…
נוּחַ (nuwach) is a Hebrew verb meaning to rest or settle down. It encompasses a wide range of applications, including both literal and figurative uses, such as to dwell, be quiet, or let something remain. The verb can appear in various forms, indicating actions like causing rest or allowing to depart. It is noted for its versatility in expressing different aspects of rest and stillness.
נוּחַ vb. rest
Qal
rest, settle down and remain
repose, be quiet, have rest
Hiph.
cause to rest = give rest to
cause to rest (i.e. light) upon
lay or set down, deposit, let lie
let remain, leave (in present condition)
leave = depart from
abandon
let alone (refrain from interfering with)
permit
Hoph.
no rest is granted to us
as subst. = space left, open space
base
H5117 נוּחַ rest
5117 nuwach noo'-akh
a primitive root; to rest, i.e. settle down; used in a great
variety of applications, literal and figurative, intransitive,
transitive and causative (to dwell, stay, let fall, place, let
alone, withdraw, give comfort, etc.):--cease, be confederate,
lay, let down, (be) quiet, remain, (cause to, be at, give,
have, make to) rest, set down. Compare 3241.
see HEBREW for 03241
נוּחַ (nu.ach) — to rest.
1) to rest
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to rest, settle down and remain
1a2) to repose, have rest, be quiet
1b) (Hiph)
1b1) to cause to rest, give rest to, make quiet
1b2) to cause to rest, cause to alight, set down
1b3) to lay or set down, deposit, let lie, place
1b4) to let remain, leave
1b5) to leave, depart from
1b6) to abandon
1b7) to permit
1c) (Hoph)
1c1) to obtain rest, be granted rest
1c2) to be left, be placed
1c3) open space (subst)
Also means: ya.nach (יָנַח "to rest" H3240)
Hc/Vhw3ms/Sp3ms — Verb hiphil sequential imperfect third person masculine singular · suffixHc/Vhw3ms/Sp3ms
אַהֲרֹן (Aharon) refers to Aaron, the elder brother of Moses, from the tribe of Levi. He is first mentioned in Exodus 4:14 and is known as the first high priest. Aaron is the son of Amram and Jochebed, and he had four sons: Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. The name is of uncertain derivation but is associated with the meaning 'light bringer.'
אַהֲרֹן 346 n.pr.m. Aaron, elder brother of Moses
base
H175 אַהֲרֹן Aaron, elder brother of Moses
175 'Aharown a-har-one'
of uncertain derivation; Aharon, the brother of
Moses:--Aaron.
אַהֲרֹן (a.ha.ron) — Aaron.
A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.4.14;
son of: Amram (H6019) and Jochebed (H3115);
brother of: Moses (H4872) and Miriam (H4813); married to Elisheba (H0472);
father of: Nadab (H5070), Abihu (H0030), Eleazar (H0499) and Ithamar (H0385)
Also named: Aarōn (Ἀαρών "Aaron" G0002)
§ Aaron = "light bringer"
brother of Moses, a Levite and the first high priest
N-proper — Noun proper masculineHNpm
ar'-un, sometimes pronounced ar'on ('aharon--Septuagint Aaron, meaning uncertain: Gesenius suggests "mountaineer"; Furst, "enlightened"; others give "rich," "fluent." Cheyne mentions Redslob's "ingenious conjecture" of ha-'aron--"the ark"--with its mythical, priestly significance, Encyclopedia Biblica under the word):
1. Family:
Probably eldest son of Amram (Ex 6:20), and according to the uniform genealogical lists (Ex 6:16-20; 1Ch 6:1-3), the fourth from Levi. This however is not certainly fixed, since there are frequent omissions from the Hebrew lists of names which are not prominent in the line of descent. For the corresponding period from Levi to Aaron the Judah list has six names (
Aaron
The eldest son of Amram and Jochebed, a daughter of Levi (Ex. 6:20). Some explain the name as meaning mountaineer, others mountain of strength, illuminator. He was born in Egypt three years before his brother Moses, and a number of years after his sister Miriam (2:1,4; 7:7). He married Elisheba, the daughter of Amminadab of the house of Judah (6:23; 1 Chr. 2:10), by whom he had four sons, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar. When the time for the deliverance of Isarael out of Egypt drew nigh, he was sent by God (Ex. 4:14,27-30) to meet his long-absent brother, that he might co-operate with him in all that they were required to do in bringing about the Exodus. He was to be the “mouth” or “prophet” of Moses, i.e., was to…
(a teacher, or lofty), the son of Amram and Jochebed, and the older brother of Moses and Miriam. (Numbers 26:59; 33:39) (B.C. 1573.) He was a Levite, and is first mentioned in (Exodus 4:14) He was appointed by Jehovah to be the interpreter, (Exodus 4:16) of his brother Moses, who was "slow of speech;" and accordingly he was not only the organ of communication with the Israelites and with Pharaoh, (Exodus 4:30; 7:2) but also the actual instrument of working most of the miracles of the Exodus. (Exodus 7:19) etc. On the way to Mount Sinai, during the battle with Amalek, Aaron with Hur stayed up the weary hands of Moses when…
The son of Amram and Jochabed, of the tribe of Levi, and brother of Moses and Miriam, Ex 6:20; born about the year B. C. 1574. He was three years older than Moses, Ex 7:7 and was the spokesman and assistant of the latter in bringing Israel out of Egypt, Ex 4:16. His wife was Elisheba, daughter of Amminadab; and his sons, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. He was 83 years old when God summoned him to join Moses in the desert near Horeb. Cooperating with his brother in the exodus from Egypt, Ex 4:1-16:36, he held up his hands in the battle with Amalek, Ex 17:1-16; and ascended Mount Sinai with him to see the glory of God,
The Hebrew word פָּנֶה (*pāneh*) is a noun meaning 'face' or 'presence,' and it appears in various contexts, including the faces of seraphim and animals, as well as the surface of the ground. It can also function as an adverb meaning 'before' or 'in front of.' The word is built from a root that suggests turning or facing, and it encompasses a wide range of applications, both literal and figurative.
[פָּנֶה], pl. פָּנִים 2123 n.m. face, also faces
face, faces
presence, person
technically, see one's face, i.e. appear before one, in one's presence
face of seraphim
face of animals
face (= surface) of ground
as adv.loc. before
for other phrases
with prepositions
base
H6440 פָּנֶה, pl. פָּנִים face, also faces . . face, faces
. . presence, person
. technically, see one's face, i.e. appear before one, in one's presence
. face of seraphim
. face of animals
. face (= surface) of ground
. as adv. loc. before
. for other phrases
. with prepositions
6440 paniym paw-neem'
plural (but always as singular) of an unused noun (paneh
{paw-neh'}; from 6437); the face (as the part that turns);
used in a great variety of applications (literally and
figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a
preposition (before, etc.):--+ accept, a-(be- )fore(-time),
against, anger, X as (long as), at, + battle, + because (of),
+ beseech, countenance, edge, + employ, endure, + enquire,
face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er
time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, X him(-self), +
honourable, + impudent, + in, it, look(-eth) (- s), X me, +
meet, X more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), X on,
open, + out of, over against, the partial, person, + please,
presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, + regard, right
forth, + serve, X shewbread, sight, state, straight, + street,
X thee, X them(-selves), through (+ - out), till, time(-s)
פָּנֶה (pa.neh) — face: before.
: before/to/front
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
פָּנֶה (pa.neh) — face.
: 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…
Prep | N-cp — Preposition · noun common masculine plural constructHR/Ncmpc
be-for': The translation of a great variety of Hebrew and Greek words. "Haran died before (the English Revised Version "in the presence of," literally "before the face of") his father Terah" (Ge 11:28). To be "before" God is to enjoy His favor (Ps 31:22). "The Syrians before" (Isa 9:12 the Revised Version, margin "on the east," as "behind," owing to the position of Canaan, relative to Syria, implies the west).
עֵדוּת (eduwth) is a feminine noun meaning 'testimony' or 'witness.' It is derived from the root word עֵד (ed), which also relates to the concept of testimony. The term appears in various contexts in the Old Testament, emphasizing its significance in legal and religious settings.
עֵדוּת 19 and עֵדֻת 27 n.f. testimony
base
H5715 עֵדוּת, עֵדֻת testimony
5715 `eduwth ay-dooth'
feminine of 5707; testimony:--testimony, witness.
see HEBREW for 05707
עֵדוּת (e.dut) — testimony.
testimony
Art | N-fs — Particle · noun common feminine singular absoluteHTd/Ncfsa
Testimony
(1.) Witness or evidence (2 Thess. 1:10).
(2.) The Scriptures, as the revelation of God’s will (2 Kings 11:12; Ps. 19:7; 119:88; Isa. 8:16, 20).
(3.) The altar raised by the Gadites and Reubenites (Josh. 22:10).
The whole revelation of God, testifying to man what he is to believe, do, and hope, Ps 19:7 119:88,99 1Co 1:6 Re 1:2. The two stone tables of the law were a visible "testimony" or witness of God’s covenant with his people; and hence the ark of the covenant was called sometimes the testimony, or the ark of the testimony, Ex 25:22 34:29. See ARK.
→ LEGAL
See EVIDENCE
See WITNESSES
Ark of
See ARK
מִשְׁמֶ֫רֶת (mishmereth) refers to a guard or watch, encompassing the concepts of duty, function, and preservation. It can denote a specific role, such as a sentry or an office, and implies the act of keeping or safeguarding. The term appears in contexts related to obligation and service, highlighting its multifaceted use in the Old Testament.
מִשְׁמֶ֫רֶת 78 n.f. guard, watch, also charge, function
base
H4931 מִשְׁמֶ֫רֶת guard, watch, also charge, function
4931 mishmereth mish-mer'-reth
fem. of 4929; watch, i.e. the act (custody), or (concr.) the
sentry, the post; obj. preservation, or (concr.) safe; fig.
observance, i.e. (abstr.) duty or (obj.) a usage or
party:--charge, keep, or to be kept, office, ordinace,
safeguard, ward, watch.
see HEBREW for 04929
מִשְׁמֶ֫רֶת (mish.me.ret) — charge.
1) guard, charge, function, obligation, service, watch
1a) guard, watch, house of detention or confinement
1b) keeping, preserving
1c) charge, injunction
1d) office, function (ceremonial)
Prep | N-fs — Preposition · noun common feminine singular absoluteHR/Ncfsa