Exodus, The Book of

VIEW:12 DATA:01-04-2020

The history of Israel (1) enslaved, (2) redeemed, (3) consecrated religiously and politically to God. There are two distinct parts: (1) Exodus 1-19, the history of Israel's deliverance from the beginning of their Egyptian bondage to their arrival at Sinai; (2) Exodus 20-40, the giving of the law and Israel's organization as "a kingdom of priests and an holy nation." The two parts, though differing in style as in subject matter, are closely intertwined, the institutions of the law in the second part resting on the historical facts recorded in the former part. The term Exodus, "the going forth," is drawn from the Septuagint, the Greek version of the Alexandrian Jews settled in the same country from whence Israel had "gone forth." The Palestinian Jews called the book from its first two Hebrew words, 'elleh shemot; "these are the names." Its separation from Genesis is marked by the different circumstances under which it presents Israel at its commencement as compared with the close of Genesis.
The first seven verses are the introduction briefly recapitulating previous events and stating the existing condition of affairs. Its close is marked by the completion of the tabernacle. Its several sections were probably written on separate papyri or parchments (according to an inscription of Thothmes III his campaigns were written on parchment and hung up in the temple of Ammon). The breaks in the narrative, and the repetitions, accord with the theory that there were distinct sections, composed separately by Moses as the events transpired, and read publicly at successive times. All would be united in one work toward the close of his life, with but a few additions and explanations. The feature which is inexplicable if anyone else were the author is this, the writer's evident unconsciousness of the personal greatness of the chief actor.
The Egyptians recognized his greatness (Exo_11:3); but the writer, while recognizing the greatness of Moses' mission, dwells especially on his want of natural gifts, his deficiencies of character and the hindrances thereby caused to his mission, and the penalties he incurred; his hasty intervention between the Israelite and Egyptian, the manslaughter, and the Israelites' rejection of him as a ruler, and his exile for the prime 40 years of his manhood. Then his unbelieving hesitancy at the divine call and pertinacious allegation of personal incapacity in spite of the miracles which might have convinced him of God's power to qualify him (Exo_3:10-13). Then the Lord's visitation on him (probably sudden and dangerous sickness) for neglecting to circumcise his son (Exo_4:24-26). (See CIRCUMCISION.) Then his passionate reproach of Jehovah for the failure of his first appeal to Pharaoh, which only brought more bitter hardship on Israel (Exo_5:20-23).
His courageous boldness before Pharaoh is never praised. Not his wisdom or foresight, but God's guidance, is prominent throughout. The first battle fought is under Joshua's lead. The only step attributed to human sagacity, the organizing of a body of assistant judges (Exodus 18), is attributed to Jethro not Moses. The same feature appears in subsequent books of the Pentateuch, his shrinking from self-vindication when assailed by Miriam and Aaron (Numbers 12); his impetuous temper at the water of Meribah Kadesh, smiting the rock irreverently and hence excluded by God from the promised land. This all is what we might expect if Moses was the author; but no later writer would be so silent as to the sublime greatness of his character. Contrast the three closing verses of Deuteronomy, added by a reviser in order to record his death. Again, Exodus was evidently written by one minutely acquainted at once with Egypt and the Sinaitic peninsula.
The route from Egypt to Horeb is traced with the local coloring and specific accuracy of an eyewitness No eyewitness of Israel's journeyings possessed such means of observation as Moses. The miracles severally suit the place, the time, and the circumstances under which they are stated to have been wrought; the plagues are essentially Egyptian; the supply of Israel's wants in the wilderness is in harmony with the national characteristics of the country. Cook (Speaker's Commentary) truly says, "we find nature everywhere, but nature in its Master's hand." The nine plagues stand in three groups, each increasing in severity. Then the tenth is threatened and the failure of the other nine declared. "Jehovah hardened Pharaoh's heart so that he would not let Israel go." The delay answered a double purpose. To Pharaoh it was the longsuffering appeal of God, who is slow to anger, and who tries the milder chastisements to bring the sinner if possible to repentance before resorting to the more severe. To Israel it afforded ample time for preparation for the Exodus.
Two months elapsed between Moses' first and second interviews with Pharaoh; the former in April, when the Israelites were scattered throughout all Egypt gathering the stubble of the harvest just reaped (the reapers leaving the stalks standing and cut close to the ears), the latter in June at the time of the Nile's yearly overflow when "the king went out unto the water" to offer his devotions to Apis, whose embodiment the river was (Exo_5:12; Exo_7:15). Israel's "scattering" tended to uproot them from their long settlement in Goshen and to train them for their approaching wilderness life. The Nile, the center of Egypt's national and religious life, was smitten, assuring Israel of Jehovah's interposition.
Three months elapsed before the next plague, giving them time to look about them for the means of escape from present wrongs. The plague of frogs attacked the Egyptian worship of nature under that revolting form (Heka, a female deity with a frog's head, the symbol of regeneration, wife of Chnum, the god of the inundation; Seti, father of Rameses II, is represented offering wine to an enshrined frog, with the legend "the sovereign lady of both worlds"); this was in September, when the inundation is at its height and the frogs (dofda, usually appea). Of the third plague no warning was given; so the third is marked in each of the other two groups of plagues. The lice or mosquitoes (kinnim) penetrating into the nostrils and ears, or rather the tick (the size of a grain of sand, which when filled with blood swells to the size of a hazel nut), came soon after the frogs, early in October.
So closed the first group, none of the three causing great calamity; but enough to warn the Egyptians and to give hope to Israel. The second group began with the 'arob, dog flies (whose bite inflames severely, and particularly the eyelid), or else beetles (worshipped by the Egyptians as the symbol of creative and reproductive power; the sun god was represented as a beetle; thus their god was fittingly made the instrument of their punishment, inflicting a painful bite, and consuming various articles). This plague, exceeding the former in severity, came in November at the critical time to Egyptian agriculture when the Nile's inundation has subsided. Then first Goshen was severed from Egypt and spared the plague. Pharaoh shows the first signs of yielding, but when the plague ceased would not let Israel go.
Then came the cattle murrain or mortality, striking at the resources of Egypt; a contagious epidemic which broke out in Egypt often after the annual inundation had subsided. The cattle tire in the fields from December to April, the change from the stalls to the open air and to fresh pastures predisposing them to it. Israel's separation of their cattle from the contagion would be a step in their preparations for the Exodus. The boils (burning carbuncles) were the third and closing plague of the second group, sent without previous notice, and warning the Egyptians during its three months continuance that their bodies would suffer if Pharaoh should still resist God. The third group began with the hail, which as in the present day prevailed from the middle of February to the beginning of March. Moses for the first time warned Pharaoh to bring all cattle out of the field, on pain of their destruction.
Many of the Egyptians feared Jehovah's word and obeyed, while the rest suffered for their disregard. In Goshen alone was no hail, so Isa_32:18-19. Pharaoh for the first time cried, "I have sinned this time, Jehovah is righteous, I and my people are wicked" (Exo_9:27). The flax being "boiled," i.e. in blossom, marks the time as the middle of February, when also the "barley" is "in the ear." Wheat and rye (rather spelt or doora are not ready until April, and so escaped. Israel received leave to go, and now knew they had sympathizers even among Pharaoh's servants. The locusts followed on Pharaoh's retracting leave. Vegetation was then at its full in the middle of March. The dread of such a scourge made Pharaoh's servants intercede to "let the men go" lest "Egypt should be destroyed." Pharaoh consented, but on hearing Moses' demand that young and old, sons and daughters, flocks and herds, should go, refused peremptorily, saying "evil is before you," i.e., your intentions are evil.
The E. wind upon Moses' stretching his rod over Egypt by Jehovah's command brought up the locusts. They oftener come from the western deserts, but sometimes from the E. and S.E. On Pharaoh's confession of sin and entreaty Moses besought the Lord and they disappeared as quickly as they came, before a wind from the sea (Hebrew), i.e. N.W, wind, sweeping transversely all Egypt and casting them into the Red Sea. The third of the third group followed, as in the close of the former two groups, without warning; the three days "darkness which might be felt" (probably owing to the S.W. wind from the desert after the spring equinox filling the air densely with fine sand, so that none during it rise from their place, men and beasts hide, this darkness could literally be "felt".) This preceded by but a few days the slaying of the firstborn, the plague which stands by itself, alone bringing death into every Egyptian family and ensuring Israel's deliverance.
Thus, the plagues have a genuine Egyptian coloring, and at, the same time the requisite adaptation to Israel's position, awakening their expectations and securing to them time for organization, without which they would have been an undisciplined mob in their march. None but, one thoroughly acquainted with Egypt could have written the account. Pharaoh and his people rightly regarded the successive visitations as natural to Egypt, yet so overruled in their intensity, in their coming and going at Moses' call to Jehovah, and in their gradual heightening when the divine will continued to be resisted, as to be supernatural and palpably sent from above. The divine aim was to vindicate Jehovah's lordship, not merely over the enslaved Hebrew but over Egypt and its king, the representative of the pagan world powers with whom God's controversy is, "to the end that thou mayest know that I am the Lord in the midst of the earth" (Exo_8:22).
The most appropriate way to effect this was not to send strange terrors but to show, by intensifying and controlling at will the visitations ordinarily felt in Egypt and falsely attributed by them to particular idols, that all these visitations are at Jehovah's absolute disposal to inflict, increase, or wholly withdraw, subserving His purposes of wrath to His adversaries, of mercy to His people, and of the setting forth of His own glory to the whole world (Exo_9:16); compare Psa_78:43-49, "sending evil angels among them"; the plagues are figuratively His messengers ("angels") in the hands of heavenly angels, of whom the destroying angel was in closest communion with Jehovah (Psa_78:51); compare Exo_12:18; Exo_12:23; Exo_12:29; Heb_11:28, for God sends good angels to punish the bad, and bad angels to chastise the good.
The plagues were so mutually connected as not to leave any place for any considerable interpolations. None could be omitted without breaking the moral and natural order which is so clearly indicated though not formally expressed. Nor could they have been so harmoniously, and at the same time so artlessly, woven together from documents of different ages. Cook, whose remarks are here epitomized, gives a list of words found only in Exodus, or in the pentateuch, derived from roots common to Hebrew and Egyptian, or found only in Egyptian; and these occur indiscriminately in the so-called Jehovistic and Elohistic passages. No Hebrew born and brought up in Palestine from the Exodus down to Solomon would have had the knowledge of the Egyptian tongue apparent in Exodus; and no author would have given the Egyptian words without explanation, had he not known that his readers would be equally familiar with them.
None but one in Moses' circumstances could have described the wanderings in the wilderness of Sinai with such a peculiarly local coloring. At the same time the very objections to some of his details, on the ground of the different state of the peninsula now in some respects, only confirm the antiquity and genuineness of his record. The desert now would be utterly incapable of sustaining such a host, nor is it a sufficient answer to this objection to say that Providence interposed to feed them. For these providential interpositions were restricted to particular occasions. Ordinarily, according to God's usual way of dealing with His children, they depended on natural supplies. Inscriptions both in Egypt and in the peninsula, as early as Snefru of the third dynasty and of the three following dynasties, and of Hatasu, widow of Thothmes II (drowned in the Red Sea), describe victories over the Mentu, the mountaineers of the peninsula, and other native tribes. These prove the existence then of a population so considerable that they resisted large Egyptian armies.
The Egyptians succeeded in working copper mines at Sarbet el Khadim and Mughard, where there are many inscriptions. The springs and wells were then carefully preserved, in order to keep open their communication with these settlements. The inscription as to the gold mines near Dakkeh mentions a well 180 ft. deep, dug by order of Seti I and Rameses II. The trees were religiously preserved and fresh plantations made. But since Egypt's power has gone the Arabs have for ages cut away the trees on which the rain, and so the fertility of the district, chiefly depend. The following undesigned coincidences between the present state of the peninsula and the accounts in Exodus confirm the accurate truth and genuineness of the book.
Exodus describes water as wanting where none now is found, abundance where springs still exist and traces of a far greater supply anciently, tracts at the same distances where food would not be found, a natural manna in the rainy season especially, but not adequate in quantity and nutriment without supernatural modification; nomadic hordes attack Israel just where and when the attack, judging from present appearances of the locality, might well be expected. The unvarying tradition of the Jews, to whom Exodus was addressed, confirms the impression of genuineness which the internal innumerable coincidences produce on the mind. Finally, the form, structure, and materials of the tabernacle belong to the wilderness. The shittim or acacia, its material, was the wood of the desert; cedar took its place in Solomon's temple. The skins, its covering, belong to the same locality (See BADGER).
The bronze ("copper"), silver, and gold Israel brought from Egypt; and probably they had not mine workings until they were long settled in their inheritance. The names of many of the materials, implements, furniture, dress, and ornaments of the priests were Egyptian. The arts necessary in constructing the tabernacle were precisely those which Israelite artisans, as Bezaleel and Aholiab, would have acquired from dwelling in Egypt, the mistress of those arts; the embroidery of curtains, carving of cherubs, capitals, ornaments in imitation of natural objects. In Palestine, on the contrary, such arts were little practiced, as being often associated with idolatry in the surrounding nations; even Solomon had to call in artists from Tyre to do work for the temple which natives apparently could not. Two distinct accounts are given of the rearing of the tabernacle; in the first Moses recites his instructions, in the second the execution of them.
A later history would never have given such a double recital. Moses wrote each at the time and on the occasion to which it refers; first the instructions, that the people might know the materials and the work required of them; secondly, when the work was completed, an account of the details, in order to take away all suspicion of malappropriation of their offerings, and also to show that the divine instructions bad been duly fulfilled. In the two accounts the order is reversed; in the instructions the inner and essential objects stand first, as being those on which the people should fix chief attention, the ark, mercy-seat, cherubs, table of shewbread, golden candlesticks; then the accessories of the tabernacle, and lastly the dress of the priests. But in the account of the work executed the tabernacle comes first, being that which would naturally be begun first, then the ark, etc.
Fausset's Bible Dictionary
By Andrew Robert Fausset, co-Author of Jamieson, Fausset and Brown's 1888.

Ex'odus, The Book of. (that is, going out [of Egypt]). The second book of the law or Pentateuch. Its author was Moses. It was written probably during the forty-years wanderings in the wilderness, between B.C. 1491 and 1451. It may be divided into two principal parts:
i. Historical, Exo_1:1-18; Exo_27:1 and,
ii. Legislative, Exo_19:40; Exo_38:1.
1. The first part contains an account of the following particulars: the great increase of Jacob's posterity in the land of Egypt, and their oppression under a new dynasty, which occupied the throne after the death of Joseph; the birth, education, flight and return of Moses; the ineffectual attempts to prevail upon Pharaoh to let the Israelites go; the successive signs and wonders, ending in the death of the first-born, by means of which the deliverance of Israel from the land of bondage is at length accomplished, and the institution of the Passover; finally the departure out of Egypt and the arrival of the Israelites at Mount Sinai.
2. This part gives a sketch of the early history of Israel as a nation; and the history has three clearly-marked stages. First, we see a nation enslaved; next, a nation redeemed; lastly, a nation set apart, and through the blending of its religious and political life consecrated to the service of God.
Smith's Bible Dictionary
By Dr. William Smith.Published in 1863

ek?sō̇-dus:
I. In General
1. Name
2. Contents in General
3. Connection with the Other Books of the Pentateuch
4. Significance of These Events for Israel
5. Connecting Links for Christianity
II. Structure of the Book According to the Scriptures and According to Modern Analyses
1. In General
2. In the Separate Pericopes
III. Historical Character
1. General Consideration
2. The Miraculous Character
3. The Legislative Portions
4. Chronology
5. Unjustifiable Attacks
IV. Authorship
1. Connection with Moses
2. Examination of Objections
Literature
(NOTE: For the signs J (Jahwist), E (Elohist), P or Priestly Code (Priest Codex), R (Redactor) compare the article on GENESIS.)

I. In General
1. Name
The second book of the Pentateuch bears in the Septuagint the name of Ἔξοδος, Éxodos, in the Vulgate (Jerome's Latin Bible, 390-405 ad) accordingly Exodus, on the basis of the chief contents of the first half, dealing with the departure of the children of Israel out of Egypt. The Jews named the book after the first words: ואלּה שׁמות, we-'ēlleh shemōth (?and these are the names?), or sometimes after the first noun שׁמות, shemōth (?names?) a designation already known to Origen in the form of Οὐαλεσμώθ, Oualesmō̇tȟ.
2. Contents in General
In seven parts, after the Introduction (Exo_1:1-7), which furnishes the connection of the contents with Genesis, the book treats of (1) The sufferings of Israel in Egypt, for which mere human help is insufficient (Ex 1:8 through 7:7), while Divine help through human mediatorship is promised; (2) The power of Yahweh, which, after a preparatory miracle, is glorified through the ten plagues inflicted on Pharaoh and which thus forces the exodus (Ex 7:8 through 13:16); (3) The love of Yahweh for Israel, which exhibits itself in a most brilliant manner, in the guidance of the Israelites to Mt. Sinai, even when the people murmur (Ex 13:17 through 18:27); (4) making the Covenant at Mt. Sinai together with the revelation of the Ten Words (Exo_20:1) and of the legal ordinances (Exo_21:1) as the condition of making the Covenant (Ex 19:1 through 24:18); (5) The directions for the building of the Tabernacle, in which Yahweh is to dwell in the midst of His people (Ex 24:18 through 31:18); (6) The renewal of the Covenant on the basis of new demands after Israel's great apostasy in the worship of the Golden Calf, which seemed for the time being to make doubtful the realization of the promises mentioned in (5) above (Ex 32:1 through 35:3); (7) The building and erection of the Tabernacle of Revelation (or Tent of Meeting) and its dedication by the entrance of Yahweh (Ex 35:4 through 40:38). As clearly as these seven parts are separated from one another, so clearly again are they most closely connected and constitute a certain progressive whole.
In the case of the last four, the separation is almost self-evident. The first three as separate parts are justified by the ten plagues standing between them, which naturally belong together and cause a division between that which precedes and that which follows. Thus in the first part we already find predicted the hardening of the heart of Pharaoh, the miracles of Yahweh and the demonstrations of His power down to the slaying of the firstborn, found in the 2nd part (compare Ex 2:23 through 7:7).
In part 3, the infatuation of Pharaoh and the demonstration of the power of Yahweh are further unfolded in the narrative of the catastrophe in the Red Sea (Exo_14:4, Exo_14:17). Further the directions given with reference to the Tabernacle (Ex 25 through 31 taken from P) presuppose the Decalogue (from E); compare e.g. Exo_25:16, Exo_25:21; Exo_31:18; as again the 6th section (Ex 32ff) presupposes the 5th part, which had promised the continuous presence of God (compare Exo_32:34 J; Exo_33:3, Exo_33:5, Exo_33:7 JE; Exo_33:12, Exo_33:14-17 J; Exo_34:9 J, with Exo_25:8; Exo_29:45 f P; compare also the forty days in Exo_34:28 J with those in Exo_24:18 P) as in Exo_34:1, Exo_34:28 J and 34:11-27 J refers back to the 4th part, namely, Exo_20:1 E; Exo_21:1 E; Exo_24:7 JE (Decalogue; Books of the Covenant; Making the Covenant). In the same way the last section presupposes the third, since the cloud in Exo_40:34 P is regarded as something well known (compare Exo_13:21 f JE; Exo_14:19 E and J, Exo_14:24 J) . The entire contents of the Book of Exodus are summarized in an excellent way in the word of God to Israel spoken through Moses concerning the making of the covenant: ?Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself. Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be mine own possession from among all peoples: for all the earth is mine: and ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation? (Exo_19:4-6). Here reference is made to the powerful deeds of God done to the Egyptians, to His deeds of lovingkindness done to Israel in the history of how He led them to Sinai, to the selection of Israel, and to the conditions attached to the making of the covenant, to God's love, which condescended to meet the people, and to His holiness, which demands the observance of His commandments; but there is also pointed out here the punishment for their transgression. The whole book is built on one word in the preface to the ten commandments: ?I am Yahweh thy God, who brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage? (Exo_20:2 E; compare Exo_29:45 f P).
3. Connection with the Other Books of the Pentateuch
The events which are described in the Book of Exodus show a certain contrast to those in Genesis. In the first eleven chapters of this latter book we have the history of mankind; then beginning with Gen_11:27, a history of families, those of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. In Exodus we have following this the beginning of the history of the chosen people. Then there is also a long period of time intervening between the two books. If Israel was 430 years in Egypt (compare Exo_12:40 f P; also Gen_15:13 J; see III, 4 below), and if the oppression began during the long reign of the predecessors of the Pharaoh, during whose reign Israel left the country (Exo_2:23; Exo_1:8), then, too, several centuries must have elapsed between the real beginning of the book (x Exo_1:8), and the conclusion of Genesis. Notwithstanding these differences, there yet exists the closest connection between the two books. Exo_1:1-7 connects the history of the people as found in Exodus with the family history of Genesis, by narrating how the seventy descendants of Jacob that had migrated to Egypt (compare Exo_1:5; Gen_46:27) had come to be the people of Israel, and that God, who offers Himself as a liberator to Moses and the people, is also the God of those fathers, of whom Genesis spoke (compare Exo_3:6 JE; Exo_3:13 E; Exo_3:15 f R; Exo_4:5 J; Exo_6:3 P). Indeed, His covenant with the fathers and His promises to them are the reasons why He at all cares for Israel (Exo_2:24 P; Exo_6:8 P; Exo_33:1 JE), and when Moses intercedes for the sinful people, his most effective motive over against God is found in the promises made to the patriarchs (Exo_32:13 JE).
As is the case with Genesis, Exodus stands in the closest connection also with the succeeding books of the Pentateuch. Israel is certainly not to remain at Sinai, but is to come into the promised land (Exo_3:17 JE; Exo_6:8 P; Exo_23:20 JE; Exo_32:34 J; Exo_33:1 JE; Exo_33:12 J; Exo_34:9 J and D; compare also the many ordinances of the Books of the Covenant, Exo_21:1 E; Exo_34:11 D and J). In this way the narratives of the following books, which begin again in Num_10:11 P and JE with the story of the departure from Sinai, continue the history in Exodus. But the legislation in Leviticus also is a necessary continuation and supplement of the Book of Exodus, and is prepared for and pointed to in the latter. The erection of the burnt-offering altar (Exo_27:1; Exo_38:1), as well as the mention made of the different kinds of sacrifices, such as the burnt sacrifices and the sin offering (Exo_29:18, Exo_29:14) and of the heave offering (Exo_29:28), point to the promulgation of a law of sacrifices such as we find in Lev 1 through 7. The directions given in regard to the consecration of the priests (Ex 29) are carried out in Lev 8 f. The indefinite commands of Exo_30:10 in reference to the atonement on the horn of the incense altar once every year renders necessary the special ritual of the Day of Atonement in Lev 16 as its supplement. The more complete enlargement in reference to the shewbread mentioned in Exo_25:30 is found in Lev_24:5-9; and even the repetitions in references to the candlesticks (Exo_25:31; Lev_24:1-4; Num_8:1-4), as also the tāmı̄dh (?continuous?) sacrifices (compare Num_28:3-8 with Exo_29:38-42), point to a certain connection between Exodus and the following books. How close the connection between Deuteronomy and Exodus is, both in regard to the historical narratives and also to their legal portions (compare the Decalogue and the Books of the Covenant), can only be mentioned at this place.
4. Significance of These Events for Israel
When we remember the importance which the exodus out of Egypt and the making of the covenant had for the people of Israel, and that these events signalized the birth of the chosen people and the establishment of theocracy, then we shall understand why the echo of the events recorded in Exodus is found throughout later literature, namely, in the historical books, in the preaching of the prophets and in the Psalms, as the greatest events in the history of the people, and at the same time as the promising type of future and greater deliverances. But as in the beginning of the family history the importance of this family for the whole earth is clearly announced (Gen_12:1-3), the same is the case here too at the beginning of the history of the nation, perhaps already in the expression ?kingdom of priests? (Exo_19:6), since the idea of a priesthood includes that of the transmission of salvation to others; and certainly in the conception 'first-born son of Yahweh' (Exo_4:22), since this presupposes other nations as children born later.
The passages quoted above are already links connecting this book with Christianity, in the ideas of a general priesthood, of election and of sonship of God. We here make mention of a few specially significant features from among the mass of such relationships to Christianity.
5. Connecting Links for Christianity
How great a significance the Decalogue, in which the law is not so intimately connected with what is specifically Jewish and national, as e.g. in the injunctions of the Priest Codex, according to the interpretation of Christ in Mt 5, has attained in the history of mankind! But in Mat_5:17 Jesus has vindicated for the law in all its parts an everlasting authority and significance and has emphasized the eternal kernel, which accordingly is to be assigned to each of these legal behests; while Paul, on the other hand, especially in Romans, Galatians and Colossians, emphasizes the transitory character of the law, and discusses in detail the relation of the Mosaic period to that of the patriarchs and of the works of the law to faith, while in 2 Cor 3 he lauds the glory of the service in the spirit over that of the letter (compare Ex 34) - an idea which in reference to the individual legal institutions is also carried out in the Ep. to the Hebrews. Compare on this subject also the articles LEVITICUS and DAY OF ATONEMENT. Then too the Passover lamb was a type of Jesus Christ (compare e.g. 1Co_5:7; Joh_19:36; 1Pe_1:19). In Ex 12 the Passover rite and the establishment of the covenant (Exo_24:3-8) arc found most closely connected also with the Lord's Supper and the establishment of the New Covenant. In the permanent dwelling of God in the midst of His people in the pillar of fire and in the Tabernacle there is typified His dwelling among mankind in Christ Jesus (Joh_1:14) and also the indwelling of the Holy Ghost in the Christian congregation (1Pe_2:5; Eph_4:12) and in the individual Christian (1Co_3:16; 1Co_6:19; 2Co_6:16; Joh_14:23). The Apocalypse particularly is rich in thought suggested by the exodus out of Egypt. Unique thoughts in reference to the Old Testament are found in the conceptions that the law was given through angels (Act_7:53; Gal_3:19; Heb_2:2); further that the rock mentioned in Exo_17:6 followed, and was Christ (1Co_10:4); and that in Heb_9:4 the real connection of the altar of incense with the Holy of Holies appears as changed into a local connection (Exo_40:26, Exo_40:27), while the idea found in Heb_9:4 that the manna was originally in the Ark of the Covenant, is perhaps not altogether excluded by Exo_16:33; and the number 430 years, found in Gal_3:17, probably agrees with Exo_12:40, Exo_12:41, in so far as the whole of the patriarchal period could be regarded as a unit (compare on the reading of the Septuagint in Exo_12:40, Exo_12:41, III, 4 below).

II. Structure of the Book According to the Scriptures and According To Modern Analyses
In the following section (a) serves for the understanding of the Biblical text; (b) is devoted to the discussion and criticism of the separation into sources.
1. In General
(a) The conviction must have been awakened already by the general account of the contents given in I, 2 above, that in the Book of Exodus we are dealing with a rounded-off structure, since in seven mutually separated yet intimately connected sections, one uniform fundamental thought is progressively carried through. This conviction will only be confirmed when the details of these sections are studied, the sections being themselves again organically connected by one leading thought. Since, in addition, the Book of Genesis is clearly divided into ten parts by the ten tōledhōth (?generations?) (compare also the division made by typical numbers in articles LEVITICUS and DAY OF ATONEMENT), thus too the number seven, as itself dividing the Book of Exodus into seven parts, is probably not accidental; and this all the less, as in the subordinate parts too, a division is to be found according to typical numbers, this in many cases appearing as a matter of course, and in other cases traced without difficulty, and sometimes lying on the surface (compare 10 plagues, 10 commandments). Yet in all of the following investigations, as is the case in the articles GENESIS, LEVITICUS and DAY OF ATONEMENT, the demonstration of the fundamental thought must be the main thing for us. The division according to typical numbers is to be regarded merely as an additional confirmation of the literary unity of the book. We refer here first of all to a number of cases, where certain numbers independently of the separate chief parts combine the Biblical text into a unity. In Num_14:22 R, Yahweh states that Israel had now tempted Him and been disobedient to Him ten times: compare Exo_14:11 JE(?) (Red Sea); Exo_15:23 f JE (Marah); Exo_16:2, Exo_16:3 P; Exo_16:20 JE; Exo_16:27, Exo_16:28 R (Manna); Exo_17:1 JE (Massah and Meribah); Exo_32:1 JE (Golden Calf); Num_11:1 JE (Tuberah); Num_11:4 JE (Graves of Lust); Num_14:2 P and JE (Spies). Most of these cases are accordingly reported in the Book of Exodus, but in such manner that in this particular a clearly marked progress can be noticed, as Yahweh does not begin to punish until Ex 32; but from here on He does so with constantly increasing severity, while down to Ex 32 grace alone prevails, and in this particular, previous to Ex 32, there is found nothing but a warning (Exo_16:27). Ten times it is further stated of Pharaoh, in a great variety of forms of expression, that he hardened his own heart (Exo_7:13 P; Exo_7:14 JE; Exo_7:22 P; Exo_8:15 P; Exo_8:32 JE; Exo_9:7, Exo_9:34, Exo_9:35 JE; Exo_13:15 D); ten times the hardening is ascribed to God (Exo_4:21 JE; Exo_7:3 P; Exo_9:12 P; Exo_10:1 R; Exo_10:20 JE; Exo_10:27 E; Exo_11:10 R; Exo_14:4, Exo_14:8 P; 17 P ?). Here already we must note that within the narrative of the miracles and the plagues at first there is mention made only of the hardening by Pharaoh himself (Exo_7:13 P; Exo_7:14 JE; Exo_7:22 P; Exo_8:11; Exo_8:15 P; Exo_8:28 JE; Exo_9:7 JE, i.e. seven times) before a single word is said that God begins the hardening; and this latter kind of hardening thereupon alone concludes the whole tragedy (Exo_14:4, Exo_14:8 P; 17 P?). Ten months cover the time from the arrival at Sinai (Exo_19:1 P) to the erection of the sacred dwelling-place of God (Exo_40:17 P). Since, further, exactly three months of this time are employed in Exo_19:10, Exo_19:16 JE; Exo_24:3 JE; Exo_24:16 P (ten days); Exo_24:18 P (40 days); Exo_34:28 J (40 days), there remain for the building of the tabernacle exactly seven months.
(b) What has been said does anything but speak in favor of the customary division of Exodus into different sources. It is generally accepted that the three sources found in Genesis are also to be found in this book; in addition to which a fourth source is found in Exo_13:3-16, of a Deuteronomistic character. It is true and is acknowledged that the advocates of this hypothesis have more difficulties to overcome in Exodus than in Genesis, in which latter book too, however, there are insufficient grounds for accepting this view, as is shown in the article GENESIS. Beginning with Ex 6 the chief marks of such a separation of sources falls away as far as P and J are concerned, namely, the different uses of the names of God, Elohim and Yahweh. For, according to the protagonists of the documentary theory, P also makes use of the name Yahweh from this chapter on; E, too, does the same from Exo_3:13 on, only that, for a reason not understood, occasionally the word Elohim is still used by this source later on, e.g. Exo_13:17; Exo_18:1. But as a number of passages using the name Elohim are unhesitatingly ascribed by the critics to J, this difference in the use of the name of God utterly fails to establish a difference of sources. To this is to be added, that J and E are at this place closely interwoven; that, while the attempt is constantly being made to separate these two sources, no generally accepted results have been reached and many openly acknowledge the impossibility of such a separation, or admit that it can be effected only to a very limited extent. Peculiarities which are regarded as characteristic of the different sources, such as the sin of Aaron in J, the staff of Moses in E, Sinai in J and the Priestly Code (P), Horeb in E, the dwelling of the Israelites in Goshen in J, but according to E their living in the midst of the Egyptians, and others, come to nought in view of the uniform text in the passages considered. This has been proved most clearly, e.g. by Eerdmans in his Alttestamentliche Studien, III (?Das Buch Exodus?) in regard to many of these passages. Narratives of a similar character, like the two stories in which Moses is described as striking the rock to produce water (Exo_17:1; Num_20:1), are not duplicates, but are different events. Compare the different localities in Exo_17:7 and Num_20:1, as also the improbability that Israel would without cause in the first passage have put into permanent form the story of its shame, and then in the latter there would have been an uncertainty as to the importance of this locality for the career of Moses; and finally, we must notice the distinction expressly made by the additional statement, ?waters of Meribah of Kadesh in the wilderness of Zin,? in Num_27:12-14; Deu_32:51 (compare Eze_47:19; Eze_48:28). Then, too, these occurrences, if we accept the division into J and E at this place, are not reduced to a single event, since both sources would share in both narratives. The same condition of affairs is found in Ex 16 in so far as JE comes into consideration, and in Ex 18 in comparison with Nu 11. In the case of Nu 11 there is express reference made to a former narrative by the word ?again? and in the second case all the details in their differences point to different occurrences. Concerning other so-called duplicates in Ex, see later in this article. But the acceptance of P in contradistinction to the text of JE does also not lead to tangible results, notwithstanding that there exists a general agreement with regard to the portions credited to P. Not taking into consideration certain that are peculiar, the following sections are attributed to this source: Exo_1:1-7, Exo_1:13-15; Exo_2:23-25; 6:2 through 7:13 (Exo_6:28-30 R); Exo_7:19, Exo_7:20, Exo_7:21, Exo_7:22; Exo_8:1-3, Exo_8:11-15; Exo_9:8-12; 12:1-20, Exo_12:28, Exo_12:37, Exo_12:40-50; Exo_13:1-2, Exo_13:20; Exo_14:1-4, Exo_14:8-10, Exo_14:15-18?, 21aa, 22-23, 19; Exo_16:1-3, Exo_16:1-14, Exo_16:15-18, Exo_16:21-26, Exo_16:31-32, Exo_16:34, Exo_16:35; Exo_17:1; Exo_19:1, Exo_19:2; 24:15 through 31:17; 34:29 through 40:38. It is claimed that in the Book of Genesis these sources constitute the backbone of the whole work; but this is not claimed for Ex. The sections ascribed to P constitute in this place, too, anything but an unbroken story. In both language and substance they are, to a certain extent, most closely connected with the parts ascribed to JE, and in part they are indispensable for the connection whence they have been taken (compare for details below). It is absolutely impossible to separate on purely philological grounds in the purely narrative portions in Exodus the portions belonging to P. That genealogies like Exo_6:14, or chronological notices like Exo_12:40, Exo_12:41, Exo_12:51; Exo_16:1; Exo_19:1, or directions for the cults like Ex 12; 25ff have their own peculiar forms, is justified by self-evident reasons; but this does not justify the acceptance of separate authors. It is the result of the peculiar matter found in each case. We must yet note that the passages attributed to P would in part contain views which could not be harmonized with theological ideas ascribed to this source, which are said to include an extreme transcendental conception of God; thus in Exo_16:10 the majesty of Yahweh suddenly appears to the congregation, and in Exo_40:34 this majesty takes possession of the newly erected dwelling. In Exo_8:19 mention is made of the finger of God, and in Exo_7:1 Moses is to be as God to Pharaoh. In Exo_12:12 the existence of the Egyptian gods is presupposed and the heathen sorcerers are able to act in competition with Moses and Aaron for a while; Exo_7:11, Exo_7:12, Exo_7:22; Exo_8:3. P also describes the Passover, which on account of the handling of the blood in Exo_12:7 cannot be regarded in any other light than as a sacrifice in the house, and in Num_9:7, Num_9:13, this act is expressly called a ḳorban Yahweh ('sacrifice of Yahweh'). Compare also the commands in Exo_12:10, Exo_12:43, Exo_12:18. But more than anything else, what has been said under (a) above goes to show that all these sources have been united in a way that characterizes the work of a systematic writer, and declares against any view that would maintain that these sources have been mechanically placed side by side and interwoven into each other. What has here been outlined for the whole book in general must now be applied to the different parts in particular.
2. In the Separate Pericopes
(1) Exodus 1:8 Through 7:7
(a) Everything that is narrated in this section, which in so worthy a manner introduces the whole book, is written from a standpoint of the Egyptian oppression, from which human help could give no deliverance, but from which the mighty power of Yahweh, working through human agency, offered this deliverance. It is a situation which demands faith (Exo_4:31). This section naturally falls into ten pericopes, of which in each instance two are still more closely connected. Numbers 1 and 2 (Num_1:8-14, Num_1:15-22), namely, the oppression through forced labor and the threat to take the life of the newly born males of the Israelites; and in contrast to this, the Divine blessing in the increase of the people in general and of the midwives in particular; numbers 3 and 4 (Exo_2:1-10, Exo_2:11-22), namely, the birth and youth of Moses stand in contrast. The child seems to be doomed, but God provides for its deliverance. Moses, when grown to manhood, tries to render vigorous assistance to his people through his own strength, but he is compelled to flee into a far-off country. Numbers 5 and 6 (Ex 2:23 through 4:17; Exo_4:18-31) report the fact that also in the reign of a new Pharaoh the oppression does not cease, and that this causes God to interfere, which in Exo_2:23-25 is expressed in strong terms and repeatedly, and this again leads to the revelation in the burning bush (Exo_3:1). And at the same time the narrative shows how little self-confidence Moses still had (Three signs, a heavy tongue, direct refusal). The sixth pericope and also the beginning of the last four, describe, from an external viewpoint, the return of Moses to Midian, and his journey from there to Egypt. Here, too, mention is made of the troubles caused by Pharaoh, which God must remove through His power. This deliverance is not at all deserved by Israel, since not even any son in a family had up to this time been circumcised. On the other hand, everything here is what can be expected. Those who sought the life of Moses had died; the meeting with Aaron at the Mount of the Lord; in Egypt the faith of the people. In an effective way the conclusion (Exo_4:31) returns to the point where the two companion narratives (Exo_2:24 f) begin. After this point, constituting the center and the chief point in the introductory section, numbers 7 and 8 (Ex 5:1 through 6:1; Exo_6:2-12), everything seems to have become doubtful. Pharaoh refuses to receive Moses and Aaron; the oppression increases; dissatisfaction in Israel appears; Moses despairs; even the new revelations of God, with fair emphasis on fidelity to the Covenant which is to unfold Yahweh's name in full, are not able to overcome the lack of courage on the part of the people and of Moses. Numbers 9 and 10, introduced by Exo_6:13 (Exo_6:14-27 and 6:28 through 7:7), show that after Moses and Aaron have already been mentioned together in Exo_4:14, Exo_4:27; Exo_5:1, and after it has become clear how little they are able of themselves to accomplish anything, they are now here, as it were, for the first time, before the curtain is raised, introduced as those who in the following drama are to be the mediators of God's will (compare the concluding verses of both pericopes, Exo_6:27; Exo_7:7), and they receive directions for their common mission, just at that moment when, humanly speaking, everything is as unfavorable as possible.
(b) The unity of thought here demonstrated is in this case too the protecting wall against the flood-tide of the documentary theory. For this theory involves many difficulties. In Exo_1:13 f there would be an account of the oppression by the Priestly Code (P), but the motive for this can be found only in the preceding verses, which are ascribed to JE; Exo_2:24 speaks of the Covenant of God With Isaac, concerning which P is said to have reported nothing in the Book of Gen, as in the latter book a reference to this matter is found only in Gen_26:2-5 R; Gen_26:24 J. In Exo_6:2 Moses and Aaron are mentioned; but as the text of P reads we know absolutely nothing from this source as to who these men are. According to Exo_7:1 Aaron is to be the speaker for Moses before Pharaoh. But according to P neither Moses nor Aaron speaks a single word. The omissions that are found by critics in documents J and E - which, if they are separated, have lines of demarcation claimed for the separation that are very unsettled - we here pass over in silence.
On the critical theory, the narratives of the Priestly Code (P), in the Book of Ex, as also in Gen, would have discarded many of the stereotyped formulas characteristic of this source (compare Exo_2:23; Exo_6:2; Exo_7:1), and in both form and contents would be made very similar to the rest of the text Exo_1:9, Exo_1:10, Exo_1:12 JE; Exo_1:20 E; Exo_7:1 P; and to a great extent expressions similar to these are here found and in part refer to these. The same must be said concerning Exo_3:7 JE in its relation to Exo_2:23 P; Exo_6:6 (sibhlōth) P in its relation to Exo_1:11 JE; Exo_2:11 E; Exo_5:4, Exo_5:5 JE (in contrast Exo_1:13, Exo_1:14; Exo_2:23). JE, in Exo_4:9 for ?dry land,? makes use of the term ha-yabbāshāh, which in Gen_1:9 f and Exo_14:16 is ascribed to the Priestly Code (P), and a different expression is used for this thought by J in Gen_7:22. In reference to Exo_7:1 P compare Exo_4:14 E (?). In reference to the hardening of Pharaoh, which is found in all the sources (Exo_7:3 P), see above under 1a; in reference to the miracles, and their purpose of making Yahweh known to the Egyptians (Exo_7:3-5 P) see the following paragraph. The four generations mentioned in Exo_7:14 P find their parallel in Gen_15:16 J (compare Gen_46:8); and the sons of Aaron mentioned in Exo_6:23 the Priestly Code (P), Nadab and Abihu, are mentioned also in the text of Exo_24:1, Exo_24:9, ascribed to JE although, except in Lev 10 the Priestly Code (P), their names are not found elsewhere in the Pentateuch. In reference to the repetitions, it must be said that Exo_1:13 P is either the continuation (in so far as the Israelites instead of being compulsory laborers became slaves), or is a concluding summary, such as is found frequently. The new revelation of God in Ex 6 the Priestly Code (P), according to chapter 3 JE, finds its psychological and historical motive in the account of the failure described in Exo_5:1 JE, and in the discouragement of the Israelites and of Moses resulting therefrom. In the same way the renewed mention by Moses of his difficulties of speech (Exo_6:12 P; compare with Exo_4:10 J and E (?)) is very characteristic of human ways, and this again necessitates the twice repeated consideration of this matter by God (Exo_6:30 R; Exo_4:10 J and E (?); concerning the names of God, see GENESIS; GOD, NAMES OF).
One difficulty, which is also not made clear by the proposed division of sources, is found in the name of the father-in-law of Moses; since according to Exo_2:18 J, this name is Reuel, and according to Exo_3:1; Exo_18:1 JE, it is Jethro (Exo_4:18 E in the form ?Jether?); in Num_10:29 JE is called Hobab and a son of Reuel (the King James Version ?Raguel?) for all of these passages are ascribed to J or E. It is probable that the name Jethro is a title (?Excellency?); and as for the rest, in Num_10:29 ḥōthēn probably does not mean father-in-law but brother-in-law (Jdg_1:16; Jdg_4:11); or in Exo_2:18 we find father and in Exo_2:21 daughter in the place of grandfather and granddaughter; otherwise we should be compelled to accept different traditions, by which view, however, the Mosaic authorship of Exodus would be made impossible (compare IV, below).
(2) Exodus 7:8 Through 13:16
(a) This section is separated as a matter of course from the rest by the typical number of ten plagues. It is introduced by the transformation of the rod into a serpent in the presence of Pharaoh (Exo_7:8-13). To explain the fact that there were ten plagues on the ground of the accidental combination of sources, is from the very outset a precarious undertaking. To this must be added the following reasons that indicate a literary editing of the material. All of the plagues are introduced by the same formula (Exo_7:12 JE; Exo_8:1 J; Exo_8:12 P; Exo_8:16 JE; Exo_8:20 JE; Exo_9:1 JE; Exo_9:8 P; Exo_9:13 JE; Exo_10:1, Exo_10:12 JE; Exo_10:21 E; Exo_11:1 E), and in connection with each plague the hardening of the heart of Pharaoh is mentioned (compare (1a) above); compare Exo_7:22 P; Exo_8:11 J; Exo_8:15 P; Exo_8:28 JE; Exo_9:7 JE; Exo_9:12 P; Exo_9:34 JE; Exo_9:35 JE; Exo_10:1 R; Exo_10:20 JE; Exo_10:27 E; Exo_11:10 R; Exo_13:15 D. As is the case in the first section, we find here too in each instance two plagues more closely connected, namely, numbers 1 and 2 already externally united by the double address of Yahweh (compare Exo_7:14 JE; Exo_7:19 P and 7:26 J; Exo_8:1 P), but also by the methods of punishment that are related to each other (water changed to blood and frogs); and, finally, by the extension of the plague (the Nile and beyond the river). In 3 and 4 we have to deal with insects (stinging flies and dung flies); in 5 and 6 with a kind of pest (pest among cattle, and boils); 7 and 8 are again formally joined by the repeated command of Yahweh to Moses in Exo_9:13, Exo_9:12 JE and Exo_10:1, Exo_10:12 JE, as also by the fullness of the account the two show and their similarity, in both also use being made of the staff (Exo_9:23 f JE; Exo_10:13 f JE), in the repetition of the emphasis put on the remarkable character of the plague (Exo_9:18, Exo_9:24; Exo_10:6, Exo_10:14 JE). By both plagues vegetation is destroyed; and in the plague of locusts special reference is made also to the hail (compare Exo_10:5, Exo_10:12, Exo_10:15). In the case of 9 and 10, the darkness constitutes a connecting link (compare Exo_10:21 E; Exo_11:4 J; Exo_12:12 P; Exo_12:30, Exo_12:31 JE). By the side of the occasional rhythm formed of two members there is also one formed of three members (after the manner of a triole in a measure of two beats). In the case of each group of three plagues, two are announced beforehand (thus 1 JEP and 2 JP; 4 JE and 5 JE; 7 JE and 8 JE; 10 EJ over against 3 the Priestly Code (P), 6 P and 9 E); the first of each group of three plagues, as 1, 4 and 7, is to be announced by Moses on the following morning to Pharaoh (Exo_7:15; Exo_8:20; Exo_9:13 JE). Also in regard to the impression caused by the plagues a distinct progress can be noticed, in this too, that the Egyptian sorcerers are active only down to the third plague. Naturally, too, over against these facts, further peculiarities can be pointed out in the separate plagues, e.g. the fact that Goshen, or rather that Israel, is spared in the 4th, 5th, 7th through 10th plagues (Exo_8:22; Exo_9:6, Exo_9:26 JE; Exo_10:23 E; Exo_11:7 J); and in the mention made of the intercession in the 2nd, 4th, 7th, 8th (Exo_8:8 J; Exo_8:12; Exo_9:28, Exo_9:33; Exo_10:17 f JE) without thereby destroying the artistic construction of the whole that has been described above, or that in each such case of individuality of presenting the matter there is to be found a reason for claiming a separate source.
(b) In the same way, too, it is not a permissible conclusion, that in the first miracle and in the first three plagues mention is made of the fact that Aaron performed this miracle with his staff (Exo_7:8,Exo_7:19; 8:5-20ff P). At any rate, in the parts ascribed to the Priestly Code (P), no absolute uniformity is to be found, since plagues 1 to 3 are commanded to Moses, while the 6th is commanded to Moses and Aaron (Exo_7:19; Exo_8:1, Exo_8:20 over against Exo_9:8); and since, further, in the 6th plague (Exo_9:8) it is Moses, and in the 10th (Exo_12:12) it is God Himself who really carries out the command, and not Aaron, as was the case in the introductory miracles and in the first three plagues. Further, according to JE (Exo_4:30), it appears that the presupposition is that we are to consider all of the addresses and actions in general as taking place through Aaron, even in those cases where this is not especially mentioned.
Only the 1st plague (Exo_7:14) furnishes an apparent reason for the acceptance of two sources. In this case mention is made at times of the waters of the Nile only, and then of all other waters being changed into blood; and a separation from this point of view at least could be carried through. But this possibility disappears at once in the case of the 2nd plague (frogs), where the passage Exo_8:1-3, ascribed to the Priestly Code (P), which verses contain the consummation of the plague announced in 7:26-29 J (Hebrew), is altogether necessary for this connection; as otherwise the impression made upon Pharaoh by this plague, which is not mentioned in P at all, would be a torso. The similarity in the construction of the 2nd and the 1st plague, however (compare under (a) above), and the same difference in the mention made of the Nile and of the other waters in the 2nd plague, make it possible and even advisable in the case of the first plague, too, to discard the hypothesis of a difference in sources, because in the 2nd plague this difference cannot be carried out. Then, too, there would be other omissions found in P. According to the customary separation of sources, P would not contain the fulfillment of the threatened tenth plague announced in Exo_12:12 at all. In the same way the statement in Exo_12:28 refers to the carrying out of a command, the announcement of which to Israel in Exo_12:21 would be found in another source. Further in Exo_12:37 we would have the Priestly Code (P), as when the parts belonging to P have been eliminated, the other sources too would contain omissions in Exo_12:21, mostly JE; Exo_12:37 E; Exo_13:3 D. In the same way the announcement of a large number of miracles (Exo_7:3 P; Exo_11:9 R) is too comprehensive, if these verses refer only to the narratives found in P. In addition, there is a remarkable similarity found in all of the narratives of P with those parts which are ascribed to JE; compare the first miracle in Exo_7:8 with Exo_4:2 J; Exo_4:17 E. In the Priestly Code (P), too, as is the case with JE, it is stated that the purpose of the miracle is, that Pharaoh, or the Egyptians, or Israel, are to recognize that Yahweh is God and the Lord of the earth, or something to this effect (Exo_7:5 P; Exo_7:17 JE; Exo_8:10 R; Exo_8:22; Exo_9:14, Exo_9:29, Exo_9:30 JE; Exo_10:2 R; Exo_11:7 J; compare from the next section, Exo_14:4 P; Exo_14:18 the Priestly Code (P), which at the same time is also the fundamental thought that forms the connecting link of the whole section). The position of Exo_11:1-3 E between Exo_10:28, Exo_10:29 E and Exo_11:8 J constitutes a difficulty, because in the last-mentioned passages Moses is represented as standing continuously before Pharaoh. The announcement made by Yahweh to Moses, that one more plague is to come, and that the Israelites should borrow articles of value from the Egyptians, must in reality have been made before, but for good reasons it is mentioned for the first time at this place, in order to explain the confident utterance of Moses, that he would not again appear before Pharaoh (Exo_10:29). But the fact that according to Exo_12:31 JE Pharaoh does in reality once more cause Moses and Aaron to be called, can readily be explained on the ground of the events that happened in the meantime.
The structure of Exodus 12 f contains nothing that could not have been written by one and the same author. Only Moses naturally did not at once communicate (Exo_12:21) to the leading men of Israel the command given in Exo_12:15 concerning the unleavened bread, which command had been given for later generations; and not until Exo_13:3 is this command mentioned in connection with the order given to the people in the meantime concerning the firstborn (Exo_13:1 f) . The further fact, that the story of the exodus reaches a preliminary conclusion in Exo_12:42 before the details of the Passover (Exo_12:3) have been given, is in itself justifiable. As far as contents are concerned, everything in chapters 12 f, namely, the exodus, the festival of unleavened bread, the firstborn, and orders pertaining thereto, that the month of the exodus is to be regarded as the first month, etc., are closely connected with the Passover and the 10th plague. Because the latter had to be described more fully than the other plagues, we find already in Exo_11:9, Exo_11:10, after the announcement of this plague and its results, a comprehensive notice concerning all the miracles through which Yahweh demonstrated how He, amid great manifestations of power (Exo_7:4 P) and with a mighty hand (Exo_6:1 JE), has led His people forth.
(3) Exodus 13:17 Through 18:27
(a) This section finds its connecting thought in the emphasis placed on the love of Yahweh, on His readiness to help, and His long-suffering in the leading of His at times murmuring people on the road to and as far as Sinai. This section covers two months. What is narrated, beginning with Exo_16:1, transpires even within a single two weeks (compare Exo_19:1). Number 1 (Exo_13:17-22), describes the journey to Etham (out of love God does not lead the people the direct way, since He fears that they will become unfaithful in the event of a battle; Joseph's bones are taken along, since God now really is taking care of His people (compare Gen_50:24, Gen_50:26); Yahweh's friendly presence is shown in the pillar of fire). Number 2 (Ex 14:1-31) contains the passage through the Red Sea (Yahweh the helper; compare Exo_14:10, Exo_14:15, Exo_14:13, Exo_14:14, Exo_14:30, Exo_14:21, Exo_14:24, Exo_14:26 f, 31, notwithstanding the murmuring of Israel, Exo_14:11 f). Number 3 (Exo_15:1) contains the thanksgiving hymn of Moses for Yahweh's help, with which fact each one of the four strophes begins (Exo_15:1, Exo_15:6, Exo_15:11, Exo_15:16 ff). Number 4 (Exo_15:20 f) contains Miriam's responsorium. Number 5 (Exo_15:22-27) treats of Marah and Elim (Yahweh proves Himself to be Israel's helper and physician (Exo_15:25 f) notwithstanding the murmuring of Israel (Exo_15:24)). Number 6 introduces the last five pericopes, with a designation of the time (Ex 16:1-36), and describes the miraculous feeding with manna and quails. (The murmuring is particularly emphasized in Exo_16:2, Exo_16:7-9, Exo_16:12. Israel also gathers more than they have been directed to do (Exo_16:16 f); reserves some for the following day (Exo_16:19 f); collects some on the Sabbath (Exo_16:27); Yahweh, who in Exo_16:6-12 alone is mentioned in rapid succession no fewer than ten times, at first does not even utter a word of reproach, and when the Sabbath has been violated He does nothing more than reprove.) Number 7 (Exo_17:1-7) reports the help of Yahweh (Exo_17:4) at the Waters of Contention (Strife). He even appears on the rock (Exo_17:6), notwithstanding the murmuring (Exo_17:2-4, Exo_17:7). Number 8 (Exo_17:8-16) describes the victory over the Amalekites, which furnished the occasion for the erection of the memorial altar, called 'Yahweh-my-Banner.' Possibly in this connection Joshua (?Yahweh helps?) was changed from Hosea (Num_13:16). Compare Hengstenberg, Authenthic. des Pentateuches, II, 395 f. Number 9 (Exo_18:1-12) shows in a constantly changing variety of expressions that emphasis is laid on the impression which the deeds of God in connection with Israel make on Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses, while he was visiting the latter (Exo_18:1, Exo_18:8-12). Effective in this connection is also the mention made of the symbolical names of the sons of Moses (Gershom, ?I have been a sojourner in a foreign land?; and Eliezer, ?The God of my father was my help, and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh? (Exo_18:3 f)). Further, the name Mount of God (Exo_18:5; compare Exo_18:12) probably is a reminder of the fulfillment of Exo_3:12. Number 10 (Exo_18:13-17) shows how God helps Moses (compare Exo_18:19) through the advice of Jethro to appoint judges. In this part, too, Ex 13:17 through 18:27, we have ten sections, which can easily be arranged in groups of two and two. Thus numbers 1 and 2 are connected by their analogous beginnings (Exo_13:17, Exo_13:18 RE; Exo_14:1, Exo_14:2 P) and by the cloud of fire (Exo_13:21 f JE; Exo_14:19, Exo_14:24 J); numbers 3 and 4 by the responsive hymn; numbers 5 and 6, which already by the feeling of hunger and thirst are connected in thought, by their reference to the ordinances of Yahweh (Exo_15:25 D; Exo_16:4 JE ?; Exo_16:28 R); numbers 7 and 8 by the use made of Moses' staff (Exo_17:5, Exo_17:9 JE); numbers 9 and 10 by Jethro's person, and the close connection of their contents in point of time (Exo_18:13). Further, the Biblical text of this place is clearly presupposed in the list of stations, expressly stated to have been prepared at the command of Moses (Nu 33). This list, as is acknowledged on all sides, has the characteristics of P; and it takes into consideration not only the portions ascribed to this source, but also the text of JE. Compare Num_33:9 (Marah and Elim) with Exo_15:22-27, and Num_33:14 (lack of water in Rephidim) with Exo_17:1.
(b) Over against the analysis into different sources the following data in detail can also be advanced. In P the last demonstration of the power of Yahweh over Pharaoh would be indeed endangered in Exo_14:4, Exo_14:15, Exo_14:21, but afterward would not be related. In Exo_16:1 we cannot find in the Priestly Code (P), unless we bring in also Exo_15:27 from JE, how Israel came to be in Elim. On the other hand, in Exo_16:4 (JE?) the promise of bread from heaven is groundless without the preceding verses, which are attributed to P; and without Exo_17:1 the Priestly Code (P), we do not know to what the word ?there? in Exo_17:3 belonging to JE refers, and how in Exo_17:8 JE the Israelites had come to Rephidim. How entirely data taken from the language utterly fail here in establishing the separation of sources we see from the fact that in Exodus the distribution of the different portions and verses between P and E becomes a matter of doubt, and also in Ex 16 a harmony of view has not been gained as to whether only the Priestly Code (P), or in addition also J, E or JE have contributed to the text. The hymn found in Exo_15:1, which certainly is an old composition, presupposes passages which are assigned to different sources, and in this way speaks for the unity of the text. Compare Exo_15:2 with Exo_14:30 J; Exo_14:13 JE (?); Exo_15:3 with Exo_14:14 JE (?); Exo_14:25 J; Exo_14:4 with Exo_14:9 P; Exo_14:4 with Exo_14:7 JE; Exo_14:8 with Exo_14:22 EP; Exo_14:29 P; with Exo_14:9.
On the other hand, Exo_14:19 and b cannot be utilized in favor of a division of sources E and J; but rather the analogous structure of this passage presupposes the same author, and there is only indicated what elsewhere is always a presupposition, namely, that God Himself has taken His abode somewhere in the cloud of fire (Exo_13:21, Exo_13:22 JE; Exo_14:24 J; compare Exo_40:34 P) Just as little are the two commands found in Exo_14:16 to be divided between P and E and J, one stating what Moses does, and the other what Yahweh does, since both rather belong together (compare Exo_9:22 f with Exo_9:33; Exo_10:13). At first glance Exo_16:6 does not appear to be in its proper place, as Moses and Aaron in Exo_16:6, Exo_16:7 have already told Israel what only in Exo_16:9 is revealed through the appearance of Yahweh and His injunction to Moses. But these very verses are in harmony with the character of the whole section (compare under a above), since it is here stated that under all circumstances Israel is to be convinced of this, that Yahweh has proven Himself to be Yahweh, and has heard their murmuring. In addition, the appearance of Yahweh in Exo_16:10 is clearly announced by Exo_16:7. Accordingly, Exo_16:9 serve only to confirm and strengthen what is found in Exo_16:6. The fact that not until in Exo_18:2 JE Jethro brings the wife and the sons of Moses, while the latter himself according to Exo_4:20 J had taken them along when he joined Israel, finds a satisfactory explanation in Exo_18:2. He sent them back doubtless because of the conduct of Zipporah on the occasion of the circumcision of her son (Exo_4:25 J). The fact that Jethro comes to Moses at the Mount of God (Exo_18:5 JE), while the latter does not arrive at Mt. Sinai until Mat_19:1 according to P and J, is no contradiction; for by the Mount of God is meant the whole chain of Horeb, which Moses has already reached according to Mat_17:6 JE; but Mt. Sinai is a single mountain. The special legal ordinances and decisions mentioned in Mat_18:20 JE before the giving of the law (19ff E and JE) are in perfect harmony with Mat_15:25 D; Mat_16:4 JE (?); Mat_16:28 R.
(4) Exodus 19:1 Through 24:18a
(a) This fourth section contains the conclusion of the covenant at Mt. Sinai (compare Mat_19:5 R at beginning; Mat_24:7, Mat_24:8 JE toward the end). The contents cover a period of ten days (compare Mat_19:10, Mat_19:11, Mat_19:16; Mat_24:3, Mat_24:1 JE; Mat_24:16 P). The text of this section can again be divided into ten pericopes. After the introduction (Mat_19:1-8), which contains a cardinal feature of Exodus (compare under I, 2 above), numbers 1 and 2 (Exo_19:9-19, Exo_19:20-25) report the preparation for the conclusion of the Covenant. Number 2 in Exo_19:23 refers expressly to number 1, but is distinguished from number 1 through the new addition in Exo_19:20 after Exo_19:18, as also through the express amplified application of the ordinances referring to purifications and the restriction of the prohibition to the priests (compare Exo_19:22, Exo_19:21, Exo_19:24 with Exo_19:10, Exo_19:12). Numbers 3 and 4 (Ex 20:1-17, Exo_20:18-26) contain the Decalogue and the directions for the cults, together with a description of the impression made by the revelation of the law. Numbers 5 and 6 (Ex 21:1 through 23:13 expressly circumscribed by a subscription, Exo_23:14-19) contain legal ordinances and further directions for the cults. Numbers 3-6 accordingly contain the laws or the conditions of the Covenant. Now follow in numbers 7 and 8 the promises of the Covenant (Exo_23:20-26, Exo_23:27-33), which in Num_6:20 and Num_6:27, Num_6:23 and 28 and 24 and 32 f correspond to each other. Numbers 9 and 10 (Exo_24:3-8, Exo_24:9-18, combined more closely by Exo_24:1, Exo_24:2) describe the conclusion of the Covenant and the Covenant congregation in different stages. Further, typical numbers at this place also appear in the laws, numbers 3-6. Number 4 (Exo_20:18) contains five directions (Exo_20:23, Exo_20:23, Exo_20:24, Exo_20:25, Exo_20:26); number 6 (Exo_23:14-19) is divided into 2 X 5 ordinances (compare the anaphoristic addition in Exo_23:14 and Exo_23:17), namely, verses Exo_23:14, Exo_23:15, Exo_23:15, Exo_23:16, Exo_23:16-17, Exo_23:18, Exo_23:18, Exo_23:19, Exo_23:19. Number 3 (Exo_20:1, the Decalogue) contains, according to Exo_34:28; Deu_4:13; Deu_10:4, ?ten words? margin, according to the two tables doubtless divided into two groups of five each, no matter how in detail we may divide and number them. In the same way number 5 (21:1 through 23:13) falls into ten sections, separate in form and contents, yet belonging together; and these again are divided into 2 X 5 groups, as will appear presently. Taken altogether then we have in numbers 3-6 (Ex 20:1 through 23:19) 17 X 5 legal ordinances or groups of laws. While in the historical sections the divisions into 5 X 2 pericopes was made, we here find three times the division into 2 X 5, although here too the beginning of the last five pericopes in the second and third sections is particularly noticeable (compare Exo_9:8 and Exo_16:1), and in the same way a new division can be made at Exo_4:18. Number 5 (Ex 21:1 through 23:13) is, however, divided as follows: I and II (Exo_21:2-6, Exo_21:7-11) ordinances for the protection of slaves; III and IV (Exo_21:12-17, Exo_21:18-27) protection of life, or liberty, of the dignity of parents, and hygienic laws; V (Ex 21:28 through 22:3) harm to animals; VI (Exo_22:4-16) to property; VII (Exo_22:17-26) against witchcraft, against imitating the Canaanites, and lack of mercy; VIII (Exo_22:27-30) the relation to God; IX and X (Exo_23:1-5, Exo_23:6-12) ethical and humane law practice. I through IV accordingly contain laws pertaining to persons; V and VI those referring to things; VII through X, those referring to religion, morality, and administration of justice. But the chief line of demarcation is to be made after V; for I through V contain each four ordinances, VI through X each seven, which in the original text in almost each case are in their language separated from each other by particular conjunctions or by the construction. Only in VI (Exo_22:4-16) one command seems to be lacking; for only Exo_22:4, Exo_22:5, Exo_22:6 f, 9-12, 13 f, 15 f are distinguished by the ?kı̄? in the beginning; but the seventh ordinance is found in Exo_22:8. Here too, in each case, II and I, two and two as a rule are more closely connected, after the manner of the division in the first three sections, 1:8 through 7:7; 7:8 through 13:16; 13:17 through 18:27; at least this is the case in I and II, III and IV through VII and VIII, IX and X.
(b) In this section, too, Ex 19:1 through 24:18a, there is no real occasion for a division into sources. It is claimed that P is found only in Exo_19:1, Exo_19:2; Exo_24:15-18; but Exo_19:1, Exo_19:2 is indispensable for Exo_19:2 on account of the word ?there?; and before Exo_24:15 there is an omission, if the preceding verses are to be ascribed to a different source. The duplicates Exo_19:8, Exo_19:9; Exo_19:18, Exo_19:20 are best explained by the assumption of a new beginning in Exo_19:9 at Exo_19:20 (compare above); Exo_24:1, Exo_24:2, which at the same time introduces Exo_24:9, is placed before Exo_24:3, because in point of time it belongs here. According to the original text, the translation at this place must read: ?To Moses he spoke,? in contrast to the ordinances which, in Exo_21:1, are addressed to the congregation of Israel. Certainly Exo_24:3-8 is purposely formulated to show in almost the same words that Exo_24:3 reports the Violation and Exo_24:4 the writing of the decision to obey on the part of Israel (Exo_24:3 and Exo_24:7). It is not perfectly clear to the reader where Moses was during the promulgation of the Decalogue, whether upon the mountain or at the foot of the mountain (compare Exo_19:24 f; Exo_20:18; but also Deu_5:5). In view of the importance of the matter itself and the vividness of the narrative and the continual change in the place where Moses abode, it is psychologically easily understood that the clearness of the account has suffered somewhat.
(5) Exodus 24:18b Through 31:18
(a) During the forty days which Moses tarries with God on the mountain, and at the conclusion of which he receives the two tables of the law (Exo_31:18), God converses with him seven times (Exo_25:1; Exo_30:11, Exo_30:17, Exo_30:22, Exo_30:34; Exo_31:1, Exo_31:12). Number 1 (25:1 through 30:10) contains directions in reference to the building of the Tabernacle, and laws for the priests serving in it. Numbers 2-6 bring a number of directions supplementing number 1, namely, number 2 (Exo_30:11-16), individual tax; number 3 (Exo_30:17-21), copper washing vessels; number 4 (Exo_30:22-33), oil for anointing; number 5 (Exo_30:34-38), incense; number 6 (Exo_31:1-11), the calling of Bezalel and Aholiab to be the master builders; additionally and in conclusion, number 7 (Exo_31:12-17), the Sabbath command. It is probably not accidental that the Sabbath idea is touched upon 7 times, namely, in addition to the present passage, also in (a) Exo_16:5 JE (?); Exo_16:23-29 P and R; (b) Exo_20:8-11 E; (c) Exo_23:10-12 E; (d) Exo_24:16 P; (e) Exo_34:21 J; (f) Exo_35:1-3 the Priestly Code (P), and that as is the case in this present passage, other passages too, such as Exo_24:16 P; Exo_35:1-3 P conclude a main section, and Exo_22:10-22 a subordinate section, with this reference.
The first more complete pericope itself in Exodus (25:1 through 30:10) is, however, divided into 12 pieces (we cannot at this place enter into details in reference to the typical numbers found so often in the measurements of the Tabernacle, but can refer only to the cubical form of the Holy of Holies on the basis of 10 cubits), namely, (1) contributions for the sanctuary (Exo_25:1-9); (2) The holy ark (Exo_25:10-22); (3) table of shewbread (Exo_25:23-30); (4) golden candlesticks (Exo_25:31-40); (5) tabernacle (26:1-37) in which at the same time the articles mentioned from 2 to 4 are placed (compare Exo_26:33); (6) altar for burnt sacrifices (Exo_27:1-8); (7) court (Exo_27:9-19) in which this altar stood (compare Exo_40:29, Exo_40:33); (8) oil for the lights (Exo_27:20, Exo_27:21); (9) sacred garments for the priests (28:1-43); (10) consecration of priests (29:1-37); (11) the burnt sacrifices (Exo_29:38-46); (12) incense altar (Exo_30:1-10). The five articles included in 8 to 12 are combined into a contrast to the five in 1 to 7 by their express reference to the priests (compare in addition to 9 and 10 also Exo_27:21; Exo_29:44; Exo_30:7 f, 10). With the incense altar, which was of great importance, and of equal importance with the great altar on the Day of Atonement (Exo_30:10), this section closes (compare (b)).
Thus it will under all circumstances be better to search for an explanation for putting oil in the place of the candlesticks and of the incense altar, which at first seems surprising, than in the case of every difficulty to appeal to a redactor's working without system or order. However, the entire portion Ex 24:18b through 31:18 finds its explanation in the promise of Exo_25:8 that Yahweh will dwell in the midst of Israel (compare Exo_29:45 f). He is enthroned on the ark, in which the accusing law as the expression of the Divine will is deposited (for this reason called hā-‛ēdhūth; Exo_25:16, Exo_25:21; Exo_26:33, Exo_26:14), but above the atonement lid, the kappōreth, at which on the Day of Atonement, the atonement ceremony is carried out (compare Exo_25:17-22; Lev 16; see DAY OF ATONEMENT.
(b) This whole section, with the exception of Exo_31:18 E (?) is ascribed to the Priestly Code (P), although at this place, though without good reasons, different strata are distinguished. In regard to the contradiction claimed to exist in the different persons to be anointed (high priest, or all the priests; compare Exo_29:7 over against Exo_28:41; Exo_29:21), see LEVITICUS. Also the duplicates of the tāmı̄dh sacrifice and of the candlesticks (compare I, 3, above) are not at all the decisive factor in proof of a difference of sources within the parts treating of the priests, providing it can be shown that each passage stands where it belongs. With regard to the candlesticks, see LEVITICUS. In addition compare passages like Mat_10:39 and Mat_16:25; Mat_10:22 and Mat_10:24, Mat_10:13; Mat_6:14 and Mat_18:35; Mat_5:29 f and Mat_18:8; Mat_19:30 and Mat_20:16. But as far as attributing certain passages to P in general is concerned, it is self-evident that ordinances referring to the cults make use of technical terms pertaining to the cults, without this fact justifying any conclusion as to a particular author or group of authors. On the other hand, it could not at all be understood how P could so often call the Decalogue ha-‛ēdhūth, without having contained this all-important law itself (compare Exo_25:16, Exo_25:21 f; Exo_26:33 f; Exo_34:29; Exo_38:21, etc.). On the other hand, as is well known, the fourth commandment (Exo_20:8-11 E) expressly refers back to Gen_2:2, Gen_2:3, that is, to P; also Exo_23:15 to Exo_12:20.
(6) Exodus 32:1 Through 35:3
(a) God's promise to dwell in the midst of Israel, the turning-point in the fifth section, seems to have become a matter of doubt, through the apostasy of Israel, but is nevertheless realized in consequence of the intercession of Moses and of the grace of God, which, next to His primitive holiness, is emphasized very strongly. This entire sixth section is to be understood from this standpoint. As was the case in the preceding section, the forty days are prominent in this too (compare Exo_34:28 J with Exo_24:18 P). We can divide the contents here also into ten pericopes. Number 1 (Exo_32:1-14) reports that Yahweh tells Moses of the idolatry with the golden calf, that He is determined to destroy Israel, but is influenced to change this determination by the intercession of Moses. Number 2 (Exo_32:15-29) describes the wrath of Moses and the punishment through him. He breaks the tablets into pieces, grinds the golden calf into powder, reproves Aaron, dissolves through the Levites the curse which had for this reason impended over them since Gen_49:5-7 and causes this to be changed into a blessing: three thousand killed. Number 3 (Gen_32:30 -35) reports that Yahweh at the petition of Moses will send some of His angels, but later on will punish the people for their sins. Number 4 (Gen_33:1-6) reports that Yahweh Himself no longer accompanies His people, which, on the one hand, is an act of grace, since the presence of God would even harm the people, but on the other hand is a punishment, and is felt as such by Israel. Number 5 (Gen_33:7-11) declares that God meets Moses only outside of the camp in a tent, but communes with him face to face. Number 6 introduces the last six pericopes in a natural way, since God's grace is appearing in constantly increasing glory (Gen_33:12 -33). Here we have the petition of Moses to Yahweh that He in person should accompany him and show him His glory (Yahweh's grace is made especially prominent in Gen_33:12, Gen_33:13, Gen_33:16, Gen_33:17, Gen_33:19). Number 7 (Gen_34:1-10) describes the preparation for the new conclusion of the covenant; Yahweh appears to Moses as the gracious, merciful, long-suffering kind, and faithful God, so that Moses again appeals to His grace. Number 8 (34:11-28) describes the new establishment of the covenant on the basis of the renewal of the Divine and grandiose promises of ordinances pertaining to religion and cults, and the ten words. Number 9 (Gen_34:29 -35) describes how, in consequence of his close communion with God, Moses' face shines. Number 10 (Gen_35:1-3) contains the Sabbath command (see (5a)). Numbers 9 and 10 give expression to the renewed covenant relationship. If we again in the larger group 1 to 8 take two and two together we find that each of these four groups contains a petition of Moses: Exo_32:11; 33:30-32; Exo_33:12; Exo_38:8, Exo_38:9. The entire section brings out equally prominently the love and the holiness of God, and does this in such a way that both characteristics find their expression in each group of two of these ten numbers. The progress beyond the third section (leading Israel to Sinai) is noticeable, since the murmuring is in each case followed only by an expression of the love of God; but equally this present section stands in contrast to Nu 11ff, where, on the occasion of the continuous murmuring of Israel the love of God is not indeed ignored, but it must take a place in the background as compared with His punitive holiness, which is particularly apparent in the story of the return of the spies in Num_14:11. Here is at once seen the great similarity with the present section of Num_14:12, Num_14:15, Num_14:16, Num_14:17 and with Exo_32:10, Exo_32:12; Exo_34:6 f, but at the same time the great difference caused by a divergency of the events (compare Num_14:21). In contrast to this, Exo_32:34 refers back to Nu 14, and Exo_32:35 is a proleptic judgment based on this experience.
(b) It is incomprehensible how critics have found in the renewal of the covenant caused by the apostasy of Israel and in the conditions of this renewal, namely, in the Books of the Covenant and in the Decalogue, duplicates, which are distributed between E and J (Exo_20:1; Exo_20:21 ff; 24:8 through 34:1ff, Exo_34:28; 34:11-26; Exo_34:27). But in Ex 34:11-26 there is no sign of the number ten being used in connection with the ordinances referring to the religion and the cults. Goethe's attempt to find at this place the original Decalogue, which effort is constantly being repeated, is accordingly without any foundation, even in the use of the number ten. In Exo_34:28, according to Exo_34:1 and tradition (compare Deu_10:2, Deu_10:4; also Exo_24:12; Exo_31:18), Yahweh is to be regarded as the subject. Again Exo_33:4 and Exo_33:5 are not duplicates. In Exo_33:4 the people are described as having laid aside their ornaments a single time as a sign of repentance; according to Exo_33:5, Exo_33:6 the people permanently dispense with these, a state of mind which makes it possible for God again to show His mercy. It is an arbitrary assumption that these ornaments were used in the construction of the Tabernacle, the building of which had been announced beforehand in Ex 25ff, so that in front of Exo_33:7 a parallel account to 35 ff P taken from JE would have been omitted. In Exo_33:7 according to the text the author has in mind a tent already in existence, which up to this time had been standing within the camp and now had to be taken without, because Yahweh for the present can no longer dwell in the midst of the people (Exo_32:34; Exo_33:3, Exo_33:1), until Moses, through his intercession, again makes this possible (Exo_33:15-17; Exo_34:9, Exo_34:10). And the promised tabernacle takes the p
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
PRINTER 1915.

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