King James Version
Exodus 33:23 in the King James Version says “And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 33 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen.”
Exodus 33:23 · KJV
And the LORD said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock:
And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by:
And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen.
KJV Study — Public Domain
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“away mine hand”
H3709the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-
“and thou shalt see”
H7200to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“my back parts”
H268the hinder part; hence (adverb) behind, backward; also (as facing north) the west
“but my face”
H6440the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“and thou shalt see”
H7200to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
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.
Exodus 33:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Exodus 33:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge