The concept of "The Back of God" is a profound theological theme that emerges from the biblical narrative, particularly in the Old Testament. It is most notably referenced in the book of Exodus, during the encounter between God and Moses on Mount Sinai. This theme is rich with implications about the nature of God, His holiness, and the limitations of human understanding.

Biblical Reference:

The primary scriptural reference to "The Back of God" is found in Exodus 33:18-23. In this passage, Moses, who has found favor in God's sight, makes a bold request: "Please show me Your glory" (Exodus 33:18). God's response is both revealing and concealing. He agrees to make His goodness pass before Moses and to proclaim His name, the LORD, but He also sets a boundary: "You cannot see My face, for no man can see Me and live" (Exodus 33:20). Instead, God offers Moses a glimpse of His back: "Then I will take away My hand, and you will see My back; but My face must not be seen" (Exodus 33:23).

Theological Implications:

1. Divine Holiness and Transcendence:
The encounter underscores the holiness and transcendence of God. The inability of humans to see God's face and live highlights the vast chasm between the Creator and His creation. God's holiness is so pure and overwhelming that it cannot be fully comprehended or withstood by mortal beings.

2. Revelation and Concealment:
The notion of seeing God's back rather than His face suggests a partial revelation. While God desires to reveal Himself to His people, there remains an element of mystery. This partial revelation invites believers to trust in God's character and His promises, even when full understanding is beyond reach.

3. God's Mercy and Grace:
Despite the limitations placed on Moses, God's willingness to reveal even a part of His glory is an act of profound grace. It demonstrates God's desire to be known by His people and to establish a relationship with them. The act of shielding Moses with His hand until He passes by is a protective gesture, emphasizing God's mercy.

4. Human Limitation:
The encounter serves as a reminder of human limitation in the face of divine majesty. It calls believers to humility, recognizing that while God is knowable, He is not fully comprehensible. This acknowledgment of human limitation fosters a deeper reverence and awe for God.

Symbolic Interpretations:

Throughout Christian history, theologians have offered various interpretations of this passage. Some see it as a metaphor for understanding God's actions in history. Just as Moses could see where God had been, believers often discern God's presence and purpose in hindsight, recognizing His hand in the unfolding of events.

Christological Fulfillment:

In the New Testament, the revelation of God reaches its fullness in the person of Jesus Christ. As the Apostle John writes, "No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is Himself God and is at the Father’s side, has made Him known" (John 1:18). In Christ, the invisible God becomes visible, bridging the gap between divine holiness and human frailty.

The theme of "The Back of God" thus serves as a profound reminder of the balance between God's immanence and transcendence, His desire to be known, and the mystery that surrounds His divine nature.