What is the meaning of Exodus 34:35?

the Israelites would see

“the Israelites would see” anchors the verse in corporate eyewitness.

• Every return of Moses from the tent or the mountain provided visible confirmation that he had, in fact, met with God (Exodus 34:29–32).

• The people’s reaction—first fear, then attentive listening—underscored God-given authority (Exodus 19:16–19; 34:30–31).

• Paul later recalls this scene to describe the fading glory of the old covenant versus the surpassing glory of the new (2 Corinthians 3:7–8).

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that the face of Moses was radiant

“that the face of Moses was radiant” shows literal, supernatural afterglow.

• Moses reflected God’s glory after intimate communion (Exodus 33:18–23; 34:29).

• Light radiating from a human face anticipates greater revelations—Christ’s transfiguration (Matthew 17:2) and His exalted appearance (Revelation 1:16).

• God is light (1 John 1:5); fellowship with Him changes His servants in ways others can see (Psalm 34:5; Acts 6:15).

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So Moses would put the veil back over his face

“Then Moses would put the veil back over his face” highlights practical and symbolic purpose.

• Protection: the intensity of reflected glory unsettled sinful people (Exodus 34:30).

• Preservation: the veil kept their focus on God’s words rather than on the phenomenon (Deuteronomy 5:22–27).

• Prophetic picture: the veil illustrated a barrier later removed in Christ (2 Corinthians 3:13–16; Hebrews 10:19–20).

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until he went in to speak with the LORD

“until he went in to speak with the LORD” shows an ongoing rhythm.

• Moses entered God’s presence unveiled—no barrier between mediator and Master (Exodus 33:11; Numbers 12:6–8).

• Each fresh encounter renewed the radiance and the message he brought (Numbers 7:89).

• The pattern foreshadows our open access through the final Mediator, Jesus (Hebrews 4:14–16; John 15:15).

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summary

Exodus 34:35 records a literal phenomenon that authenticated Moses’ unique role. Israel regularly saw their leader’s shining face, grasped the holiness it represented, and learned that only God can remove the veil that shields sinful people from His glory. The cycle of unveiled communion and veiled ministry pointed forward to Christ, who both reveals God fully and provides believers with permanent, unveiled access to Him.