Exodus 34:35

And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses’ face shone: and Moses put the vail upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.

Exodus 34:35 (KJV)

Context

This verse closes the account of Moses meeting with God on Mount Sinai. There he received the Ten Commandments and other laws for Israel. He spent forty days and forty nights in the Lord’s presence. When he came down, the people saw that the skin of his face shone. This was not a single event. Every time Moses spoke with the Lord and then came out, his face was radiant, and he covered it with a veil until he went in again. The radiance was a physical sign of his communion with God, showing the awe-inspiring nature of being in His presence.

Meaning

The shining of Moses’ face was a visible sign of his close communion with God. It showed that he had been in the presence of the Almighty and that this encounter left a mark on him. The veil served a practical purpose: it protected the Israelites from the overwhelming brightness. It also showed that the people could not approach God’s glory directly. Moses acted as their mediator, carrying God’s words to them while shielding them from the full intensity of that glory. The veil was removed only when Moses went in to speak with the Lord, and he put it back on when he came out to the people. This pattern emphasized the unique privilege Moses had of speaking with God face-to-face.

Biblical connections

The Apostle Paul later uses this event in 2 Corinthians 3:12-18. He explains that the veil also points to the old covenant, whose glory was temporary. In Christ, the veil is removed, and believers behold the Lord’s glory with unveiled faces. This connection shows that the radiance of Moses was real but passing, while the glory of the new covenant is permanent and far greater. Paul contrasts the fading glory of Moses’ face with the surpassing, permanent glory that believers now receive through the Spirit.

Application

This passage encourages believers to spend time in God’s presence through prayer, worship, and reading Scripture. Such communion changes a person from the inside out. The change may not be visible on the face, but it should be seen in character and actions. Just as Moses reflected God’s glory, Christians are called to reflect His love and grace to others. The veil also reminds us of the need for humility and reverence. We cannot approach God on our own terms; we come through Christ, who makes the way possible. Time with God is not meant to be hidden but to shape how we live and serve.

Reflection

Consider how time with God shapes daily life. Do others see evidence of His presence in your words and deeds? The glory on Moses’ face faded, but the new covenant offers a glory that never fades. Through Christ, every believer can draw near to God and be transformed by His Spirit. This transformation is not for show but for service, enabling us to be lights in a dark world. As you spend time in prayer and Scripture, let that closeness with God change you, and let His love shine through you to those around you.