Exodus 33:13

KJV

Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation [is] thy people.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found {H4672} grace {H2580} in thy sight {H5869}, shew {H3045} me now thy way {H1870}, that I may know {H3045} thee, that I may find {H4672} grace {H2580} in thy sight {H5869}: and consider {H7200} that this nation {H1471} is thy people {H5971}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now, please, if it is really the case that I have found favor in your sight, show me your ways; so that I will understand you and continue finding favor in your sight. Moreover, keep on seeing this nation as your people."

Berean Standard Bible

Now if indeed I have found favor in Your sight, please let me know Your ways, that I may know You and find favor in Your sight. Remember that this nation is Your people.”

American Standard Version

Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found favor in thy sight, show me now thy ways, that I may know thee, to the end that I may find favor in thy sight: and consider that this nation is thy people.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 33:13 records Moses' impassioned and pivotal prayer following Israel's profound sin with the golden calf. Having successfully interceded to prevent God's complete destruction of the nation, Moses now presses for a deeper revelation of God's "way" and character, appealing to divine grace. His earnest desire is not only for a more profound personal intimacy with the Almighty but also for the unwavering assurance of God's distinguishing and continued presence with the entire nation, reminding God of His unique covenant relationship with Israel as "His people." This prayer powerfully illustrates Moses' exceptional spiritual leadership and his deep conviction that God's active presence is absolutely indispensable for Israel's identity, journey, and ultimate fulfillment of their purpose.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in the Exodus narrative, immediately following the devastating golden calf incident detailed in [Exodus 32](/exodus/32 "Exodus 32 - The Golden Calf and Moses' Intercession"). God, in His righteous anger, had initially threatened to consume the Israelites and establish a new nation through Moses ([Exodus 32:10](/exodus/32-10 "Exodus 32:10 - God's Anger and Offer to Moses")). Moses, however, interceded powerfully, appealing to God's character and covenant promises, which led to God relenting from the immediate judgment ([Exodus 32:11-14](/exodus/32-11-14 "Exodus 32:11-14 - Moses' Earnest Intercession")). Subsequently, God declared His intention to send an angel to lead Israel, but stated He would not go with them personally, lest He consume them on the way due to their stiff-necked nature ([Exodus 33:1-3](/exodus/33-1-3 "Exodus 33:1-3 - God Refuses to Go with Israel")). This declaration plunged the people into mourning ([Exodus 33:4](/exodus/33-4 "Exodus 33:4 - Israel Mourns and Strips Off Ornaments")). Moses, uniquely privileged to speak with God "face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend" ([Exodus 33:11](/exodus/33-11 "Exodus 33:11 - God Speaks to Moses Face to Face")), leverages this intimacy to continue his intercession. His plea is not merely for the nation's survival, but for the restoration of God's personal, distinguishing presence, which he knows is their true mark of identity among all peoples ([Exodus 33:16](/exodus/33-16 "Exodus 33:16 - God's Presence as Israel's Distinction")). Verse 13 is a direct and fervent plea within this ongoing, intense dialogue, seeking a deeper understanding of God's character as the foundational basis for His renewed and active presence.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical setting is the wilderness journey of the Israelites, a short time after their miraculous deliverance from Egyptian bondage and the momentous giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. Having witnessed incredible divine power and entered into a solemn covenant relationship with Yahweh, their swift descent into idolatry with the golden calf represented a profound and shocking betrayal of that covenant. This act was not a minor misstep but a direct affront to God's holiness and His unique identity as the one true God, especially after He had explicitly forbidden idolatry in the Ten Commandments ([Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3-5 "Exodus 20:3-5 - The First and Second Commandments")). In the ancient Near East, the presence of a deity was often symbolized by an idol or a sacred object, but for Israel, God's presence was uniquely manifested in the Tabernacle and through His direct interaction with Moses. The withdrawal of God's personal presence, therefore, was not a minor inconvenience but a catastrophic spiritual and existential threat. It signified the potential loss of their divine guide, protector, and the very source of their unique identity and purpose among the nations. Moses' prayer reflects a deep understanding of the gravity of this situation and the absolute necessity of God's personal, guiding presence for the success and ultimate fulfillment of the entire nation's journey to the Promised Land.

* **Key Themes:** Exodus 33:13 contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Central among these is the theme of **Divine Presence**, emphasizing that God's active, personal presence is the indispensable mark of His covenant relationship with Israel and the source of their distinction from other nations. This verse also highlights the theme of **Intercession**, showcasing Moses' unique role as a mediator who stands between a holy God and a sinful people, pleading on their behalf. Furthermore, it underscores the theme of **God's Grace and Mercy**, as Moses appeals not to Israel's merit (which is absent after the golden calf incident) but to God's inherent character of unmerited favor. The request to "know God's way" speaks to the theme of **Revelation and Intimacy with God**, demonstrating a desire for a deeper, experiential understanding of God's character and will, which is crucial for faithful leadership and covenant living. Finally, the verse implicitly touches on the theme of **Covenant Faithfulness**, as Moses reminds God of His commitment to Israel as "His people," appealing to God's own fidelity to His promises despite Israel's failures. These themes collectively reinforce the profound nature of the relationship between Yahweh and Israel, a relationship sustained by divine initiative and grace.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Grace (Hebrew, _chên'_):** This term, appearing twice in the verse, signifies unmerited favor, goodwill, or a benevolent disposition. Moses is not asserting a right or demanding a privilege, but humbly appealing to God's inherent kindness and willingness to bestow favor. It underscores the profound truth that any positive response from God would be solely due to His character, not Israel's or Moses' deservingness, especially in light of their recent grievous sin.
* **Way (Hebrew, _derek'_):** While literally meaning a path or road, in this context, "way" extends far beyond mere geographical direction. It refers to God's character, His methods, His principles of action, His will, and His divine plan. Moses is asking for a deeper, more profound understanding of how God operates, what pleases Him, and how He intends to relate to His people, particularly after such a severe breach of covenant. It is a request for spiritual and moral guidance, not merely logistical direction.
* **Know (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** This Hebrew verb denotes a deep, intimate, experiential knowledge, far surpassing mere intellectual acquaintance. It implies a relational understanding, akin to the knowledge between a husband and wife, or a shepherd and his sheep. Moses desires not just information about God, but a profound, personal, and transformative relationship with Him, which would enable him to lead the nation according to God's heart and purposes, truly aligning his actions with divine will.
* **People (Hebrew, _ʻam'_):** This word refers to a congregated unit, specifically a tribe or nation. By reminding God that Israel is "thy people," Moses appeals to God's unique ownership and covenant relationship with them. It highlights God's choice and commitment to Israel, despite their rebellion, and serves as a powerful basis for Moses' intercession, reminding God of His own reputation and faithfulness tied to this particular nation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now therefore, I pray thee,"**: Moses opens with an earnest and urgent plea, indicating the deep sincerity and gravity of his request. The "therefore" links this petition directly to the preceding intense dialogue with God, where God had expressed His reluctance to accompany Israel, and Moses had already begun his persistent intercession.
* **"if I have found grace in thy sight,"**: This is a humble and conditional appeal, acknowledging God's absolute sovereignty and Moses' complete dependence on divine favor. It sets a tone of submission and reliance on God's unmerited kindness, rather than any claim of personal merit or entitlement, especially in the wake of Israel's profound sin.
* **"shew me now thy way,"**: This is the core request for divine revelation. Moses desires not merely a physical path to the Promised Land, but a profound understanding of God's character, His will, His methods, and His principles of operation. It represents a deep longing for spiritual insight into the divine mind and heart, crucial for leading God's people.
* **"that I may know thee,"**: This clause serves as the ultimate purpose and motivation for the preceding request. Moses' ultimate aim in seeking God's "way" is to deepen his intimate, experiential knowledge of God Himself. This profound knowing is foundational for his leadership, for the nation's relationship with God, and for living in alignment with divine purposes.
* **"that I may find grace in thy sight:"**: A powerful repetition of the opening phrase, forming an **inclusio** that emphasizes the central and enduring theme of grace. It highlights Moses' persistent desire for God's continued favor, recognizing it as the indispensable prerequisite for all divine blessing, guidance, and the successful journey of the nation.
* **"and consider that this nation [is] thy people."**: Moses broadens his petition from a personal request for grace to a selfless intercession for the entire nation. He strategically reminds God of His unique covenant relationship with Israel, appealing to God's own commitment, reputation, and identity as the God of this chosen people. This demonstrates selfless leadership and a profound understanding of God's faithfulness to His promises.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices that amplify Moses' earnest plea and its theological significance. **Repetition** is prominently featured in the phrase "if I have found grace in thy sight" and "that I may find grace in thy sight." This creates a powerful **inclusio**, framing Moses' core request and underscoring his profound reliance on God's unmerited favor as the foundational premise of his entire prayer. Moses' prayer itself is a prime example of **intercession**, where a mediator pleads fervently on behalf of others, demonstrating his unique role and intimate relationship with God on behalf of a sinful nation. The structure of the prayer also reveals a sophisticated form of **rhetorical appeal**, as Moses strategically reminds God of His own covenantal relationship with Israel ("this nation is thy people"), thereby invoking God's character, faithfulness, and reputation as a compelling basis for His response. Furthermore, the progression from "shew me now thy way" to "that I may know thee" illustrates a clear **cause-and-effect** relationship, where a deeper understanding of God's actions and character (His "way") is presented as the means to achieving a more intimate, experiential knowledge of His very being.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 33:13 is a profound theological statement on the nature of divine grace, the pursuit of intimacy with God, and the vital role of intercessory prayer. Moses' earnest plea for God's "way" and a deeper "knowing" of God highlights that true spiritual life is not merely about following rules or receiving blessings, but about cultivating a personal, experiential relationship with the Divine. It underscores that God's active presence is the ultimate distinguishing mark of His people, and that His grace is the indispensable foundation for any meaningful interaction with Him, especially in the aftermath of human failure. Moses' selfless intercession for the nation, even after their grievous sin, also exemplifies the heart of true spiritual leadership, reminding God of His covenant promises and His ownership of His people, appealing to His faithfulness rather than their merit. This prayer beautifully encapsulates the dynamic tension between God's holiness and His mercy, and the crucial role of a mediator in bridging that gap.

* [Deuteronomy 5:29](/deuteronomy/5-29 "Deuteronomy 5:29 - Desire to Keep God's Commandments")
* [Jeremiah 9:24](/jeremiah/9-24 "Jeremiah 9:24 - Boasting in Knowing God")
* [John 17:3](/john/17-3 "John 17:3 - Eternal Life is Knowing God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Moses' prayer in Exodus 33:13 serves as a timeless and powerful model for our own spiritual lives and prayer practices. It teaches us to approach God with profound humility, recognizing that any favor, guidance, or blessing we receive is purely by His grace, not by our own merit or deservingness. In a world often preoccupied with material gain, superficial understanding, or self-sufficiency, Moses' primary request for a deeper revelation of God's "way" and a more intimate "knowing" of Him challenges us to fundamentally reorient our desires and priorities. Do we genuinely long for God's presence and character more than for His gifts or solutions to our problems? Are our prayers centered on knowing Him more fully, understanding His will, and aligning our lives with His divine purposes? Furthermore, Moses' selfless intercession for a wayward nation reminds us of our profound call to pray not only for ourselves but for our communities, our churches, our families, and the wider world. His example encourages us to persist in prayer, even when circumstances seem dire or people seem undeserving, trusting that God's presence is our ultimate distinction, our guiding light, and our unfailing source of strength and hope. This passage calls us to a deeper, more humble, and more intercessory walk with God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Moses' humility in approaching God with "if I have found grace" challenge and reshape my own prayer life and my understanding of God's favor?**
* **What does it truly mean for me to "know God" in a deep, intimate, and experiential way, beyond mere intellectual understanding or theological assent?**
* **In what practical ways am I actively seeking to understand God's "way" – His character, principles, and will – in my daily decisions and interactions?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater heart for selfless intercessory prayer, specifically for those in my sphere of influence who are struggling, lost, or have strayed from God's path?**
* **What aspects of my life, my priorities, and my relationships truly demonstrate that God's distinguishing presence is my ultimate desire and source of hope?**

### FAQ

**Why does Moses emphasize "grace" so much in this prayer?**

Answer: Moses emphasizes "grace" (Hebrew: *chên*) because he profoundly understands that Israel, having just committed a grievous sin by worshipping the golden calf ([Exodus 32:7-8](/exodus/32-7-8 "Exodus 32:7-8 - The Golden Calf and God's Anger")), has no inherent right or claim to God's continued favor or presence. His repeated appeal to "grace" highlights his deep humility and utter dependence on God's unmerited kindness and benevolent disposition. It acknowledges that any positive response from God would be a pure demonstration of His character and mercy, not a reward for Israel's obedience or Moses' own worthiness. This emphasis sets the crucial theological stage for God's merciful decision to continue His presence with His people, underscoring that salvation and blessing are always by divine grace.

**What is the significance of Moses asking to know God's "way"?**

Answer: Asking to know God's "way" (Hebrew: *derek*) is a profound spiritual request that extends far beyond merely asking for a geographical path through the wilderness. Moses is seeking a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of God's character, His principles, His methods, and His divine will. He wants to know how God operates, what pleases Him, and how He intends to relate to His people, especially after their severe covenant breach. This request is for moral and spiritual insight, enabling Moses to lead the nation in a manner that is truly consistent with God's heart and purposes. It reflects a deep desire for intimacy and alignment with the divine nature, which is crucial for a leader who speaks with God "face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend" ([Exodus 33:11](/exodus/33-11 "Exodus 33:11 - God Speaks to Moses Face to Face")). It's a prayer for wisdom to navigate God's will in complex circumstances.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 33:13, with Moses' earnest plea for grace, a deeper knowledge of God's "way," and the assurance of God's distinguishing presence with His people, finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Moses, serving as the great mediator of the Old Covenant, powerfully foreshadows Christ, who is the perfect and ultimate Mediator of a superior New Covenant ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Christ, the Mediator of a Better Covenant")). It is supremely through Christ that humanity truly "finds grace in God's sight," for He is the very embodiment of God's unmerited favor, given to us even while we were still sinners and alienated from God ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). Furthermore, Jesus Himself definitively declares, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, Truth, and Life")). Thus, the "way" Moses so desperately longed to know and understand is fully and perfectly revealed in the person, teachings, and redemptive work of Christ. It is through Him that we truly "know" the Father in an intimate, experiential, and saving sense, as eternal life is precisely defined as knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent ([John 17:3](/john/17-3 "John 17:3 - Eternal Life is Knowing God")). Finally, Moses' selfless intercession for "this nation, [God's] people," finds its profound fulfillment in Christ's ongoing, perfect intercession for His Church, the new covenant people of God, whom He purchased with His own precious blood ([Acts 20:28](/acts/20-28 "Acts 20:28 - The Church Purchased by Christ's Blood")). The promise of God's distinguishing presence, which Moses so earnestly sought for Israel, is now eternally guaranteed to all believers through the indwelling Holy Spirit, sent by Christ ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16-17 "The Promise of the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth")), ensuring that God is indeed with His people always, even to the very end of the age ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "The Great Commission and Christ's Presence")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 119:33

¶ HE. Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it [unto] the end.

Psalms 25:4

Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.

Psalms 27:11

Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.

Psalms 86:11

Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name.

Deuteronomy 9:26

I prayed therefore unto the LORD, and said, O Lord GOD, destroy not thy people and thine inheritance, which thou hast redeemed through thy greatness, which thou hast brought forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand.

Deuteronomy 9:29

Yet they [are] thy people and thine inheritance, which thou broughtest out by thy mighty power and by thy stretched out arm.

Ephesians 1:17

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: