The Church Fathers on this verse

Exodus 32:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Let not the Egyptians say, I beseech thee: He craftily brought them out, that he might kill them in the mountains, and destroy them from the earth: let thy anger cease, and be appeased upon the wickedness of thy people.

Douay-Rheims

לָמָּה֩ יֹאמְר֨וּ מִצְרַ֜יִם לֵאמֹ֗ר בְּרָעָ֤ה הֽוֹצִיאָם֙ לַהֲרֹ֤ג אֹתָם֙ בֶּֽהָרִ֔ים וּ֨לְכַלֹּתָ֔ם מֵעַ֖ל פְּנֵ֣י הָֽאֲדָמָ֑ה שׁ֚וּב מֵחֲר֣וֹן אַפֶּ֔ךָ וְהִנָּחֵ֥ם עַל־הָרָעָ֖ה לְעַמֶּֽךָ׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

Ambrose of Milan

4th centuryChurch Father

We have observed the significant role that respectful and warm communication plays not only among ordinary individuals but also among royalty, while noting the destructive impact of haughty and disrespectful words, which can diminish authority and even threaten the stability of kingdoms. If a person has gained the affection of the populace through wise counsel, loyal service, and diligent fulfillment of responsibilities—or if they are willing to face peril for the well-being of the nation—they will undoubtedly cultivate such deep affection that the community will prioritize that individual’s safety and prosperity above their own welfare. Consider the reproach that Moses endured from his people!

Read more (124 words)

Yet, whenever the Lord sought to bring judgment upon the rebellious, Moses selflessly interceded on behalf of his countrymen, offering himself to take their punishment in order to protect them from divine wrath. Throughout his journey, how tenderly he spoke to the people after enduring their scorn, providing them comfort in times of trouble, uplifting them with hopeful messages, and reinforcing his support through actions! Although Moses conversed with God repeatedly, he consistently approached the people with a spirit of humility and compassion. He was rightly esteemed above all others, so much so that they were hesitant to gaze upon his face or believe that his resting place could be found; he was beloved for his gentleness rather than merely admired for his accomplishments.

Wlastow G.K.

19th centuryCommentator

From the concluding verse, we can discern that the Lord was putting Moses to the test. However, what a magnificent prayer Moses offers to God, displaying deep fervor for the glory of Jehovah’s name as he implores for mercy on behalf of Israel, recalling the covenant promises. His heart overflows with love and sorrow for the sins of Israel. While transgression calls for retribution and the justice of God is rightfully demanded, mercy prevails in the face of judgment. In this moment, the righteousness of Moses is acknowledged by the Lord as a means of atonement for Israel's wrongdoing. Here, Moses serves as a precursor to the ultimate mediator who reconciles God's justice with fallen humanity. The Lord's final words provide Moses with the peace and strength necessary to mend the fractured law among the people.

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Passages read together with this verse.