Topical Encyclopedia The transfiguring of Moses' face is a significant event in the Old Testament, illustrating the profound impact of divine encounter and the glory of God reflected in His chosen servant. This event is primarily recorded in the Book of Exodus, specifically in Exodus 34:29-35.Biblical Account After Moses received the Ten Commandments for the second time on Mount Sinai, he descended with the tablets in hand. The Scripture notes, "When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was unaware that his face had become radiant because he had spoken with the LORD" (Exodus 34:29). This radiance was a direct result of Moses' intimate communion with God during the forty days and nights he spent on the mountain. The Israelites, upon seeing Moses, were afraid to approach him due to the brightness of his face. This fear underscores the awe and reverence associated with the divine presence. Moses, recognizing their fear, called them to himself, and he communicated God's commandments to them. After speaking with the people, Moses would cover his face with a veil, removing it only when he went in to speak with the LORD (Exodus 34:33-35). Theological Significance The transfiguring of Moses' face serves as a powerful symbol of the transformative effect of God's glory. It signifies the holiness and majesty of God, which is so overwhelming that it alters the physical appearance of those who come into close contact with Him. This event also prefigures the New Testament account of the Transfiguration of Jesus, where His face shone like the sun (Matthew 17:2), further linking the Old and New Covenants. Moses' veiling of his face can be interpreted as a means to protect the Israelites from the overwhelming glory of God, which they were not prepared to behold directly. It also highlights the mediatory role of Moses as the one who stands between God and His people, a role that is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. Mosaic Covenant and Glory The radiance of Moses' face is emblematic of the glory of the Mosaic Covenant, which, while glorious, was temporary and pointed forward to the greater glory of the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul reflects on this in 2 Corinthians 3:7-18, contrasting the fading glory of the old covenant with the surpassing and enduring glory of the new. Practical Implications For believers, the transfiguring of Moses' face is a reminder of the transformative power of God's presence. It calls Christians to seek a deeper relationship with God, knowing that such encounters will inevitably lead to spiritual transformation. The event also encourages believers to reflect God's glory in their lives, serving as a testament to His work within them. In summary, the transfiguring of Moses' face is a profound biblical event that illustrates the holiness of God, the transformative power of His presence, and the foreshadowing of the greater glory revealed in Jesus Christ. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 34:29-35And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses' hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses knew not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him. Nave's Topical Index Library The Transfiguration. The Hilltops --Experiences of Gladness and Glory The Flood-Tide of Power. An Advance Step in the Royal Programme The Ark among the Flags Ears and no Ears Not that Light, but a Witness. Gordon -- Man in the Image of God Praying Men at a Premium The Fourth Commandment Resources What trials did Jesus face before His crucifixion? | GotQuestions.orgWhy do I face the consequences of Adam's sin when I did not eat the fruit? | GotQuestions.org Has anyone ever seen God? | GotQuestions.org Face: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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