Translation commentary on Exod 33:17

And the LORD said to Moses introduces Yahweh’s reassurance to Moses, with no further conditions. As explained in the comment before verse 12, this verse should be understood as concluding the paragraph rather than starting a new one. This very thing you have spoken I will do is literally “even this word [davar] which you [singular] spoke [dibber] I will do.” New Revised Standard Version has “I will do the very thing you have asked.” In context this refers to Moses’ request in the preceding verses, namely, that Yahweh’s presence go with all the people.

For you have found favor in my sight uses the singular you, referring to Moses. It is the same expression used in verse 12. (See the comment there.) And I know you by name is the same expression used in verse 12, except for a different form of the same verb. (See the comment there.)

Quoted with permission from Osborn, Noel D. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on Exodus. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1999. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .

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