The Church Fathers on this verse

Exodus 32:13Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, thy servants, to whom thou sworest by thy own self, saying: I will multiply your seed as the stars of heaven: and this whole land that I have spoken of, I will give to your seed, and you shall possess it for ever:

Douay-Rheims

זְכֹ֡ר לְאַבְרָהָם֩ לְיִצְחָ֨ק וּלְיִשְׂרָאֵ֜ל עֲבָדֶ֗יךָ אֲשֶׁ֨ר נִשְׁבַּ֣עְתָּ לָהֶם֮ בָּךְ֒ וַתְּדַבֵּ֣ר אֲלֵהֶ֔ם אַרְבֶּה֙ אֶֽת־זַרְעֲכֶ֔ם כְּכוֹכְבֵ֖י הַשָּׁמָ֑יִם וְכָל־הָאָ֨רֶץ הַזֹּ֜את אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָמַ֗רְתִּי אֶתֵּן֙ לְזַרְעֲכֶ֔ם וְנָחֲל֖וּ לְעֹלָֽם׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

Ambrose of Milan

4th centuryChurch Father

It has been observed that the power of courteous and loving communication was beneficial not only to the common folk but also to those in positions of authority, while arrogant and disdainful remarks often caused significant damage, weakening authority and even threatening the stability of realms. When an individual earns the affection of the people through wise counsel, devoted actions, and a commitment to their duties—even risking themselves for the welfare of the nation—they will undoubtedly garner such deep respect that the populace may prioritize that person's well-being above their own. Consider the trials Moses faced at the hands of his people.

Read more (115 words)

Yet, whenever the Lord sought to discipline the proud, Moses selflessly offered himself to bear the consequences rather than let his fellow Israelites face divine wrath. Despite the insults endured, he addressed the people with kindness, comforting them amid their struggles, offering hopeful assurances, and backing his words with actions. Though he communicated with God on numerous occasions, he consistently approached the people with humility and love. Moses was rightly esteemed above all others, to the extent that they hesitated to look upon his face or believe that his grave could ever be located; his profound care for the souls of the people rendered him more beloved for his gentleness than admired for his achievements.

Wlastow G.K.

19th centuryCommentator

From the final verse of the passage, it becomes evident that the Lord was putting Moses to the test. Nevertheless, what a heartfelt prayer Moses lifts up to God, demonstrating intense passion for the honor of Jehovah’s name as he implores for mercy on behalf of Israel, recalling the divine promises. His words overflow with love and sorrow for the iniquities of his people. Sin justly calls for punishment in light of God's righteousness, yet mercy triumphs in judgment. In this moment, the Lord accepts Moses' own righteousness as an atonement for the sins of Israel. Moses serves here as a foreshadowing of the ultimate mediator, reconciling God’s justice with humanity's transgressions. The final words from the Lord provide Moses with the peace and fortitude necessary to re-establish the covenant law among the Israelites.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.