Deuteronomy 9:16 Meaning and Explanation
“And I looked, and, behold, ye had sinned against the LORD your God, and had made you a molten calf: ye had turned aside quickly out of the way which I commanded them; they have made them a molten image.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses sees Israel has already sinned, making a golden calf and turning from God's commandments.
The Context of Deuteronomy 9:16
Moses witnesses Israel's sin of making and worshipping a golden calf.
What Does Deuteronomy 9:16 Mean?
As Moses descends with the covenant tablets in hand, he sees with his own eyes what God had told him: Israel has made a molten calf. They have sinned against the LORD their God. The timing is stunning—the covenant itself being violated while Moses carries the very tablets inscribing it.
The description emphasizes how quickly they turned aside: 'ye had turned aside quickly out of the way which I commanded.' Israel did not struggle with temptation; they actively, rapidly abandoned God's commandments for an idol they could see and touch. The speed of their defection underscores the seriousness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 9:16
What does Deuteronomy 9:16 mean?
Moses sees Israel has already sinned, making a golden calf and turning from God's commandments.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 9:16?
Moses witnesses Israel's sin of making and worshipping a golden calf.