King James Version
What Does Exodus 32:33 Mean?
“And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book.”
Context
31
And Moses returned unto the LORD, and said, Oh, this people have sinned a great sin, and have made them gods of gold.
32
Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin--; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book which thou hast written.
33
And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book.
34
Therefore now go, lead the people unto the place of which I have spoken unto thee: behold, mine Angel shall go before thee: nevertheless in the day when I visit I will visit their sin upon them.
35
And the LORD plagued the people, because they made the calf, which Aaron made.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(33) **Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out.**—Comp. Ezekiel 18:4 : “The soul that sinneth, it shall die.” A mere man cannot take other men’s sins on him, cannot relieve them of the penalties attached to sin, the worst of which is the depravation of the soul itself. Sin persisted in blots out from God’s book by the absolute contradiction that there is between evil and good. Even Christ’s merits cannot avail the sinner who does not put away his sin, detest it, abhor, it, revolt from it. Only One who can implant a principle of life in man can save from death.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Exodus 32:33 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Exodus 32:33
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge