Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may wax hot against them, and that I may consume them: and I will make of thee a great nation.
Now leave me alone so that my anger can burn hot against them, and I can completely destroy them. Then I will make you into a great nation instead.
God is telling Moses He wants to destroy the Israelites for their disobedience and start over by making Moses' descendants into a great nation.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Exodus, the Israelites had recently escaped from slavery in Egypt and were camped at Mount Sinai, where God was giving Moses the Ten Commandments as the foundation of their covenant. While Moses was on the mountain receiving these laws, the people grew impatient and persuaded Aaron to make a golden calf for them to worship, directly violating God's commands. This verse captures God's immediate response of righteous anger toward their idolatry, offering Moses a chance to step aside so He could destroy the nation and rebuild it through him.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.