Exodus 33:22 Meaning and Explanation
“And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →As the Lord's glory passes, He will shelter Moses in a rock crevice and cover him with His hand.
The Context of Exodus 33:22
The Lord describes the protective arrangement for witnessing His glory.
What Does Exodus 33:22 Mean?
The Lord describes a protective action: He will place Moses in a cleft (crevice) of the rock, creating shelter from the intensity of His passing glory. The image suggests the Lord cradling Moses in safety. His hand covering Moses provides both protection and intimate contact—the same hand that controls history now shields His servant from divine fire.
This arrangement allows Moses to perceive the Lord's passage without being consumed. The rock cleft and the Lord's hand work together to contain the danger while allowing experience. It is a paradox of protection and vulnerability, safety and awe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 33:22
What does Exodus 33:22 mean?
As the Lord's glory passes, He will shelter Moses in a rock crevice and cover him with His hand.
What is the context of Exodus 33:22?
The Lord describes the protective arrangement for witnessing His glory.