Exodus 31:18 – Does the description of God literally writing the tablets “with His finger” conflict with the idea of a non-physical deity, and how can this be explained logically? Understanding the Phrase “with His Finger”: Exodus 31:18 in Context Exodus 31:18 states: “When He had finished speaking with him on Mount Sinai, He gave Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, stone tablets inscribed by the finger of God.” At first glance, one might wonder how this anthropomorphic phrase—God using a “finger” to write on tablets—fits with the biblical teaching that God is Spirit and not a physical being (cf. John 4:24). The following sections address this question from a comprehensive standpoint. 1. Anthropomorphism in Scripture In many places, Scripture uses human terms to describe God. These terms are known as “anthropomorphisms.” They help readers understand God’s nature and actions in a way that is relatable. For example, Genesis 6:6 states that “the LORD regretted” in reference to humanity’s sin. Another example appears in Psalm 34:15, referring to “the eyes of the LORD.” While God is not a physical being with eyes and facial expressions, such imagery conveys His active watchfulness over His people. Similarly, describing God’s “finger” underscores His personal involvement and authorship of the Ten Commandments. Rather than suggesting He has literal muscles and bones, it communicates that no mere human or angelic intermediary inscribed these commandments—God directly initiated this supernatural process. 2. The Nature of God as Spirit Scripture consistently teaches that the Creator is not limited by physical form. John 4:24 clearly states: “God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship Him in spirit and in truth.” Deuteronomy 4:15–16 likewise warns against any idolatrous depiction of God’s form. Thus, to reconcile the “finger of God” language with God’s spiritual essence, it helps to recognize that Scripture accommodates human language and understanding. The phrase “finger of God” is not meant to contradict God’s immaterial nature. Instead, it conveys the power and immediacy of His action—God’s direct imprint on the stone tablets. 3. Scriptural Examples of God’s Direct Action Other passages likewise describe God acting without implying He is physically constrained: • Creation Narrative (Genesis 1) – God merely speaks and the universe is formed. This demonstration of power is far beyond any physical limitation. • Finger of God in the New Testament (Luke 11:20) – Jesus says, “But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.” Here, “finger of God” emphasizes divine power behind Christ’s miracles. In all these references, the phrase “finger of God” denotes God’s unquestionable authority and involvement—an anthropomorphic expression used for human comprehension. 4. Possible Modes of Inscription on the Tablets Beyond the figurative language, believers throughout history have viewed this event as miraculous. God’s power, being unlimited, need not rely on ordinary means—He does not require flesh and bone to engrave stone. • Divine Energy or Glory: In some instances, Scripture speaks of the manifestation of God’s glory (e.g., Exodus 24:17). The “finger of God” could be a figure of speech indicating that God’s own glorious power etched the letters. • Angelic Agency: While Exodus 31:18 appears to stress God’s direct role, the broader biblical worldview acknowledges angels as ministers (Psalm 103:20). Nevertheless, the text specifically indicates it is God’s doing, underscoring supernatural authorship. • Miraculous Intervention: As with the burning bush (Exodus 3) and the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14), God’s miraculous work breaks natural bounds. The same power that sustains the universe (Hebrews 1:3) easily explains the creation of inscriptions on stone tablets. 5. Consistency with a Non-Physical Deity Since God is Spirit, any reference to human features or actions must be interpreted using context and the totality of Scripture. The “finger of God” language is not contradictory but clarifies who authored the Ten Commandments: they permeated from His omnipotent authority, not through human hands or purely natural processes. Furthermore, throughout the Bible, God’s spiritual and transcendent nature stands firm. Passages that reference God’s hand, arm, or finger never teach that He is confined to a physical body. Rather, these expressions illustrate His might, judgment, love, or other attributes, bringing complex divine actions into accessible human terms. 6. Historical and Interpretive Support Early Jewish and Christian interpreters consistently viewed Exodus 31:18 as a literal event showcasing divine action rather than a statement about God’s possessing physical digits. Ancient manuscripts and copies of the Pentateuch demonstrate remarkable fidelity to the original text, lending credibility to the account itself. Archaeological findings also confirm the practice of inscribing legal or covenant codes on stone, aligning with the biblical portrayal of the Ten Commandments. For instance, the discovery of ancient Near Eastern law codes etched on tablets (such as the Code of Hammurabi) shows that significant covenant documents were typically recorded on durable media. This aligns with the biblical claim that God’s own message was inscribed by a supernatural act. 7. Philosophical and Logical Explanation From a logical standpoint, a non-physical, eternal God can operate within the physical realm without being bound by it. Just as one might input commands on digital devices without physically writing code line by hand, God can enact change or imprint text without relying on anthropomorphic limbs. Using the term “finger” conveys immediacy and authenticity—that these commands came directly, not secondhand. Moreover, the consistency of Scripture on God’s nature as both transcendent (beyond creation) and immanent (active in creation) sets a framework for miraculous intersections, such as physically inscribing or healing. It is not illogical to believe that the Author of natural laws can act within those laws in extraordinary ways. 8. Summary Observations 1. Anthropomorphism: “Finger of God” reflects divine power in human terms. 2. God as Spirit: Scripture presents God’s immaterial essence, which is not contradicted by this figurative language. 3. Miraculous Act: The supernatural etching of the tablets upholds God’s omnipotence. 4. Historical Context: Engraved law codes in the ancient Near East reinforce the plausibility of stone tablets. 5. Logical Consistency: A transcendent deity can operate within physical reality without being physical Himself. There is no inherent conflict between referring to God as Spirit and using anthropomorphic language. Exodus 31:18 does not undermine the understanding of God’s non-physical nature; rather, it underscores His direct involvement and underscores the origin and authority of His commands. |
    |