Meaning of Exodus 31:18

Exodus 31:18 states, "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." This verse captures a pivotal moment in the Israelite journey, indicating the covenant between God and His people.

Contextual Background

This verse is situated at the conclusion of God’s instructions to Moses regarding the Law and the establishment of the covenant. It highlights the divine origin of the Law, emphasizing its importance in the relationship between God and the Israelites.

Interpretations from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry notes that the “tables of stone” symbolize the permanence and authority of God's commandments. Writing with “the finger of God” signifies a direct and divine communication, underscoring the seriousness of the covenant. The act reflects God's intimate involvement in His people's lives and His desire for them to live according to His statutes.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes emphasizes that the two tables represent both the moral and ceremonial laws. The number two may signify completeness in the context of the covenant, establishing the foundation upon which the Israelites are to build their community and worship practices. This act also signifies the separation and sanctification of Israel as God's chosen people.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke explains that the “tables of stone” were not only a physical representation of the laws but also a spiritual awakening for the people. The phrase “written with the finger of God” suggests that these laws are not man-made but divinely inspired, thus commanding respect and adherence from the Israelites.

Cross-References with Exodus 31:18

To further understand Exodus 31:18, we can look at several related Bible verses that establish connections and themes:

• Deuteronomy 9:10: "And the Lord delivered unto me two tables of stone written with the finger of God; and on them was written according to all the words, which the Lord spake with you in the mount out of the midst of the fire in the day of the assembly."
• Exodus 24:12: "And the Lord said unto Moses, Come up to me into the mount, and be there: and I will give thee tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which I have written; that thou mayest teach them."
• 2 Corinthians 3:3: "Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart."
• Hebrews 8:10: "For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people."
• Matthew 5:17: "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill."
• Romans 3:20: "Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin."
• Psalm 119:11: "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."

Thematic Connections and Significance

The themes of covenant, divine authority, and moral imperative are significant in understanding Exodus 31:18. The act of God giving the law to Moses on tablets of stone not only establishes the rules the Israelites are to follow but also signifies a stronger relationship built on obedience and acknowledgement of God’s supremacy.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

To delve deeper into the meanings of Bible verses, tools such as a Bible concordance and Bible cross-reference guide can be beneficial. Such tools can help uncover more Bible verses that relate to each other, enriching one’s understanding of the Biblical text.

Culmination and Conclusion

In conclusion, Exodus 31:18 serves as a reminder of the first statements of the law and is central to the foundational identity of Israel as God’s chosen people. By engaging in cross-referencing Biblical texts and identifying connections between Bible verses, believers can gain a clearer insight into the heart of God's message and establish a profound connection to their faith.

Encouragement for Further Study

As you explore the connections within Scripture, consider how you can use cross-referencing Bible study methods to relate this verse to your own life and spiritual growth.