Exodus 31:18 Meaning and Explanation
“And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God gives Moses the two stone tablets inscribed by God's finger, marking the completion of His communication at Mount Sinai.
The Context of Exodus 31:18
God completes His revelation to Moses by giving the written covenant law.
What Does Exodus 31:18 Mean?
The two tables of testimony contained the Ten Commandments—the covenant law that defined Israel's relationship with God and each other. Stone signified permanence; divine writing signified divine authority beyond human interpretation.
Written with the finger of God emphasizes that these are not human compositions but God's own words. This direct inscription marks them as the utterance of divine wisdom and will, unchangeable and authoritative for all generations.
Exodus 31:18 in the Original Language
finger of God (אֶצְבַּע־אֱלֹהִים, etzba elohim) — the direct action of God's hand; implies both power and intimacy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 31:18
What does Exodus 31:18 mean?
God gives Moses the two stone tablets inscribed by God's finger, marking the completion of His communication at Mount Sinai.
What is the context of Exodus 31:18?
God completes His revelation to Moses by giving the written covenant law.