of Aaron and Moses
The mention of "Aaron and Moses" together highlights their leadership roles among the Israelites. Aaron, as the first high priest, and Moses, as the prophet and leader, were chosen by God to guide His people. The Hebrew names "אַהֲרֹן" (Aharon) and "מֹשֶׁה" (Moshe) carry significant meanings; Aaron's name is often associated with "mountain of strength," while Moses means "drawn out," reflecting his rescue from the Nile. Their partnership exemplifies the balance of spiritual and civil leadership, with Aaron representing the priestly duties and Moses the prophetic and judicial roles.

at the time
This phrase situates the narrative in a specific historical context. The Hebrew "בְּיוֹם" (beyom) can be translated as "in the day" or "at the time," indicating a particular period when significant events occurred. It emphasizes the divine timing and orchestration of events, reminding readers that God's plans unfold according to His perfect schedule. This temporal marker connects the narrative to the broader account of Israel's journey and covenant relationship with God.

the LORD spoke
The phrase "the LORD spoke" is a powerful reminder of divine revelation. The Hebrew "יְהוָה דִּבֶּר" (YHWH dibber) signifies direct communication from God, underscoring the authority and sacredness of the message. In the conservative Christian perspective, this highlights the belief in the inerrancy and inspiration of Scripture, as God's words are seen as infallible and authoritative. It also reflects the intimate relationship between God and His chosen leaders, through whom He communicates His will to His people.

to Moses
The direct communication "to Moses" signifies his unique role as God's chosen mediator and prophet. Moses' relationship with God is characterized by direct and personal encounters, as seen throughout the Pentateuch. The Hebrew "אֶל־מֹשֶׁה" (el-Moshe) indicates a personal and intentional dialogue, reinforcing Moses' authority and responsibility to convey God's instructions to the Israelites. This highlights the importance of faithful leadership and obedience to God's commands.

on Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is a significant location in biblical history, known as the place where God gave the Law to Israel. The Hebrew "בְּהַר סִינַי" (behar Sinai) refers to this sacred mountain, symbolizing divine revelation and covenant. Archaeologically and historically, Mount Sinai is associated with the Sinai Peninsula, though its exact location remains debated. In the biblical narrative, it represents a place of encounter, transformation, and covenant, where God establishes His laws and reaffirms His relationship with His people. This setting underscores the holiness and gravity of the events described, as well as the foundational role of the Law in Israel's identity and mission.

(1) These also are the generations of Aaron and Moses . . . --The name of Aaron is placed first, not only because he was the elder brother, but also because the ministry of Moses was restricted to his own person, and his sons are merely classed amongst the rest of the Levitical families in 1Chronicles 23:14; whereas the office of Aaron was perpetuated in the persons of his descendants. Hence we find no mention made in this place of the sons of Moses, but only of those of Aaron. The word generations here, as in the book of Genesis (e.g., Genesis 6:9; Genesis 25:19) and elsewhere, is used to denote the history; and in this sense the present and the following chapters pertain as much to Moses as to Aaron. Or the reference may be to the fact that Moses and Aaron were made the heads of the whole tribe of Levi, and therefore that the Levitical families generally are traced up equally to both.