Old Testament
Exodus 34:35
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The Israelites could see that Moses' face was glowing. So Moses would put the veil back over his face until the next time he went in to speak with the LORD.
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And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses’ face shone: and Moses put the vail upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.
What Exodus 34:35 means
Plain-English insight for readers
After Moses spent time with the LORD, his face would shine brightly, reflecting the glory of God. The Israelites noticed this change and were both amazed and afraid. To avoid frightening them, Moses wore a veil over his face when he wasn't speaking to God. This veil served as a barrier, allowing him to communicate with the people without overwhelming them. Each time he returned to the LORD, the glow would return, reminding everyone of the divine connection he had. This story illustrates how being in the presence of God can transform us, making us shine with His light. It also shows the importance of sharing that light with others in a way that is approachable and relatable. Moses' experience encourages us to seek our own moments with God, allowing His presence to change us from the inside out, so we can share that transformation with the world around us. The glow of Moses' face symbolizes the impact of divine encounters on our lives and how they can inspire others to seek the same.
How to apply Exodus 34:35 to your life
Consider how your time spent in reflection or prayer can change you. Just as Moses' face shone, your inner peace and joy can radiate to those around you. Seek moments of connection with God, and let that light guide your interactions with others. Share your experiences to inspire them to seek their own encounters with the divine. Embrace the change within you and let it shine through your actions and words, encouraging others.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Face of Moses Shines (Exodus 34:27–35)
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Moses
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 34:35 mean?
Exodus 34:35 describes how Moses' face shone after he spoke with God, reflecting His glory. To prevent frightening the Israelites, Moses wore a veil over his face when he wasn't in God's presence.
What is the significance of Moses wearing a veil in Exodus 34:35?
The veil symbolizes a barrier between Moses and the Israelites, allowing him to communicate without overwhelming them. It highlights the transformative effect of being in God's presence and the need for approachable communication.
Why did Moses' face shine in Exodus 34:35?
Moses' face shone because he had been in the presence of God, experiencing His glory. This transformation served as a visible reminder of his divine encounter.
What does the glow of Moses' face represent in Exodus 34:35?
The glow of Moses' face represents the impact of divine encounters on a person's life. It illustrates how being close to God can change us and inspire others to seek similar experiences.
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