Exodus 33:5 Meaning and Explanation
“For the LORD had said unto Moses, Say unto the children of Israel, Ye are a stiffnecked people: I will come up into the midst of thee in a moment, and consume thee: therefore now put off thy ornaments from thee, that I may know what to do unto thee.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Lord tells Moses to repeat His diagnosis: Israel is stubborn; removal of ornaments tests their sincerity.
The Context of Exodus 33:5
Moses is instructed to command the people to remove their ornaments as a sign of true repentance.
What Does Exodus 33:5 Mean?
The Lord's command to Moses underscores the gravity of Israel's condition. The phrase 'in a moment' expresses the instant nature of divine judgment—Israel's rebellion has brought them to the edge of destruction. Removing ornaments becomes a visible test of repentance.
The Lord's words 'that I may know what to do unto thee' do not imply ignorance but rather indicate that He will respond based on the people's demonstrated commitment to change. Their actions (removing ornaments) will reveal the sincerity of their turn away from rebellion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 33:5
What does Exodus 33:5 mean?
The Lord tells Moses to repeat His diagnosis: Israel is stubborn; removal of ornaments tests their sincerity.
What is the context of Exodus 33:5?
Moses is instructed to command the people to remove their ornaments as a sign of true repentance.