Exodus 33:6

And the children of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments by the mount Horeb.

And the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} stripped {H5337} themselves of their ornaments {H5716} by the mount {H2022} Horeb {H2722}.

So from Mount Horev onward, the people of Isra'el stripped themselves of their ornaments.

So the Israelites stripped themselves of their jewelry from Mount Horeb onward.

And the children of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments from mount Horeb onward.

Commentary

In Exodus 33:6, the children of Israel are depicted in a profound act of humility and repentance. This verse follows directly after a period of intense divine displeasure and national mourning, marking a pivotal moment in their journey with God.

Context

This verse is set immediately after the devastating incident of the golden calf idolatry, where the Israelites, impatient for Moses' return from Mount Sinai (also known as Mount Horeb), persuaded Aaron to fashion an idol for them. This act provoked God's righteous anger, leading Him to declare His intention to withdraw His direct presence from them, instead sending an angel to lead them to the promised land (Exodus 33:3). The news of God's withdrawal deeply distressed the people, causing them to mourn (Exodus 33:4). Stripping themselves of their ornaments at Mount Horeb was a tangible, public demonstration of their sorrow and a response to God's instruction to lay aside their finery (Exodus 33:5), signifying a posture of humility before the Lord.

Key Themes

  • Repentance and Humility: The act of stripping off ornaments, which symbolized wealth, status, and beauty, was a stark visual expression of profound sorrow and contrition over their sin. It was a rejection of outward show in favor of inner brokenness before God. This aligns with the ancient Near Eastern custom of removing finery during times of mourning or deep distress.
  • Consequences of Sin: The stripping of ornaments serves as a powerful reminder of the immediate and visible consequences of their idolatry. Their rebellion led to God's threatened withdrawal and their subsequent shame and humbling.
  • Seeking God's Favor: This act was part of the process of seeking reconciliation and restoration with God. By humbling themselves and mourning, they were preparing their hearts for a renewed relationship, hoping for God's continued presence among them.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "ornaments" is 'adi (Χ’Φ²Χ“Φ΄Χ™), which refers to jewelry, finery, or attire used for adornment. In ancient cultures, such items could also carry symbolic or even religious significance, sometimes associated with pagan deities or superstitious practices. By removing these, the Israelites were not only expressing humility but perhaps also symbolically distancing themselves from any remnants of pagan influence or pride that might have contributed to their fall into idolatry.

Practical Application

Exodus 33:6 offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Genuine Repentance: True repentance involves more than just words; it often requires tangible actions that demonstrate a change of heart and a willingness to humble oneself before God.
  • Prioritizing God's Presence: The Israelites' willingness to part with their prized possessions highlights the supreme value of God's presence. We are called to surrender anything that hinders our relationship with Him or distracts us from His will.
  • Humility in Adversity: When facing divine discipline or the consequences of our sins, a humble and contrite heart is essential for seeking forgiveness and restoration. This verse reminds us that God responds to a broken spirit, as seen in Psalm 51:17.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Exodus 33:4

    And when the people heard these evil tidings, they mourned: and no man did put on him his ornaments.

  • Exodus 32:3

    And all the people brake off the golden earrings which [were] in their ears, and brought [them] unto Aaron.

  • Jeremiah 2:19

    Thine own wickedness shall correct thee, and thy backslidings shall reprove thee: know therefore and see that [it is] an evil [thing] and bitter, that thou hast forsaken the LORD thy God, and that my fear [is] not in thee, saith the Lord GOD of hosts.
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