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Exodus 34:4

And he hewed two tables of stone like unto the first; and Moses rose up early in the morning, and went up unto mount Sinai, as the LORD had commanded him, and took in his hand the two tables of stone.

Exodus 34:4 · King James Version

Meaning

After the Israelites had broken the first set of stone tablets that God had given to Moses on Mount Sinai, Moses was instructed to go back up the mountain and carve out another set of tablets. The process of hewing the stone tablets was deliberate and significant, as it symbolized the renewal of the covenant between God and His people. By crafting the new tablets in a similar manner to the first ones, Moses was reaffirming the continuity of God's commandments and the importance of upholding them. The act of rising early in the morning to carry out this task also demonstrates Moses' obedience and dedication to fulfilling God's commands. As Moses ascended Mount Sinai once again, he took with him the newly hewn tablets, representing the restoration of the broken covenant and the opportunity for the Israelites to once again follow God's laws. This episode of replacing the tablets serves as a powerful reminder of God's mercy and willingness to give His people a second chance to embrace His teachings.

Theological Overview

Within this verse, we find Moses tasked with a significant responsibility - hewing two stone tablets to replace the ones he had previously broken in anger. This act serves as a symbolic representation of second chances and the continuous opportunity for repentance and forgiveness in the eyes of the Lord. The early rising of Moses to fulfil this command from God reflects his obedience and dedication to carrying out the divine will. By ascending Mount Sinai with the stone tablets in hand, Moses demonstrates his faith and trust in the Lord's guidance. The act of hewing the tablets of stone can also be seen as a form of discipline and commitment, as the process of carving and engraving signifies the effort and perseverance needed in staying aligned with God's commandments. Through this act, Moses showcases his humility and repentance, setting an example for future generations to follow in the path of righteousness and faith.

Exodus 34:4 in other translations

American Standard Version

And he hewed two tables of stone like unto the first; and Moses rose up early in the morning, and went up unto mount Sinai, as Jehovah had commanded him, and took in his hand two tables of stone.

World English Bible

He chiseled two tablets of stone like the first; and Moses rose up early in the morning, and went up to Mount Sinai, as Yahweh had commanded him, and took in his hand two stone tablets.

Douay-Rheims

Then he cut out two tables of stone, such as had been before; and rising very early he went up into the Mount Sinai, as the Lord had commanded him, carrying with him the tables.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then Moses hewed two Tables of stone like vnto the first, and rose vp earely in the morning, and went vp vnto the mount of Sinai, as the Lord had commanded him, and tooke in his hande two Tables of stone.