In Exodus 32, the Israelites, waiting for Moses to return from Mount Sinai, grow impatient and approach Aaron, demanding that he make them gods to worship. Aaron gives in to their demands and collects their golden earrings, which he melts down and forms into a golden calf. The people worship the idol, offering sacrifices and indulging in revelry.
Meanwhile, on the mountain, God informs Moses of the Israelites’ disobedience. God expresses anger and threatens to destroy the people, but Moses intercedes on their behalf. Moses descends from the mountain, carrying the two stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments. When he sees the people worshiping the golden calf, he becomes furious and smashes the tablets.
Moses confronts Aaron, who shifts blame onto the people for their desire to worship the calf. Moses calls for those who are loyal to God to stand with him, and the Levites rally to his side. Moses commands the Levites to take up their swords and execute those who had participated in the idolatrous worship. About three thousand people are slain that day.
Moses pleads with God to forgive the people, and although God relents from destroying them, He sends a plague as punishment. Moses then returns to Mount Sinai to speak with God, seeking reconciliation.
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