Exodus 33:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Such actions serve as clear testimony that Moses’s life exemplified the highest degree of perfection. Therefore, as we inquire into the nature of perfection in virtuous living, and in light of what has been stated, it remains for you, noble one, to keep this example before you. By reflecting on the profound insights of this historical account and applying them to your own life, strive to be recognized by God and become His friend. This embodies true perfection—not merely refraining from a sinful existence out of fear of punishment, nor doing good deeds for the sake of reward with conditions attached, but rather losing sight of all else, even that which might be hoped for according to divine promises. The only thing to dread should be the loss of God's friendship, and the singular aspiration should be to attain that cherished relationship, which represents the essence of a perfected life. What your elevated mind may discover in the pursuit of the more glorious and divine will also resonate with many, for it will certainly benefit all who seek Christ Jesus our Lord, to whom be glory and dominion forever and ever, Amen.

Moses deduced that the angel appointed to lead them must be either the angel promised prior to the covenant's breaking at Sinai (Ex. 22:20) or another one. Yet, Moses found it hard to accept merely that first angel. The Lord indicated that He would not be present with the Israelites, yet this angel testified to God's presence because he is more than a mere angel; he embodies God's authority as indicated by the claim that he would not forgive the people's transgressions unless they followed him, and that the name of the Lord is upon him (Ex. 23:21). In essence, he is referred to as God. Who else could this be but the Son of God, known as the Angel of the Lord even in the age of the patriarchs, and simultaneously acknowledged as God (Genesis 16:7, 13)? Later, He was referred to as the Angel of the great council (Isaiah 9:6) and the Angel of the covenant (Malachi 3:1). Moses recognized that if the Lord is contemplating removing His direct guidance and instead appointing an angel, He cannot be referring to the angel that led them before their idolatry at Sinai, but to another angel of significantly lesser rank. Who then, Moses thought, could this angel be but a created being? This concept conflicted with Moses's belief because he found it challenging to accept that instead of the Lord Himself, or a divine angel bearing God’s name, the people would be led by a mere created spirit into Canaan. It seemed as if he questioned this notion, and by stating "You have not disclosed to me who will guide me," he implied that he found God's words about the angel unclear. Above all, he hoped that the leader of Israel would continue to be the Lord. The Lord’s supportive words to Moses, as mentioned here, are not found earlier, but likely were spoken when the Lord, prompted by Moses's intercession, decided against destroying the sinful populace. The Lord will express His favor to Moses again in similar terms, affirming, "I know you by name and you have found favor in my sight" (Ex. 33:17), indicating that Moses holds a unique place in God's regard and love. The subsequent verse will clarify why Moses recalls the Lord’s words of favor towards him.