Exodus 33:11
New International Version
The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent.

New Living Translation
Inside the Tent of Meeting, the LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Afterward Moses would return to the camp, but the young man who assisted him, Joshua son of Nun, would remain behind in the Tent of Meeting.

English Standard Version
Thus the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses turned again into the camp, his assistant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent.

Berean Standard Bible
Thus the LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young assistant Joshua son of Nun would not leave the tent.

King James Bible
And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.

New King James Version
So the LORD spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. And he would return to the camp, but his servant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, did not depart from the tabernacle.

New American Standard Bible
So the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses returned to the camp, his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent.

NASB 1995
Thus the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses returned to the camp, his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent.

NASB 1977
Thus the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses returned to the camp, his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent.

Legacy Standard Bible
Thus Yahweh used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, and his attendant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent.

Amplified Bible
And so the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses returned to the camp, his attendant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent.

Christian Standard Bible
The LORD would speak with Moses face to face, just as a man speaks with his friend, then Moses would return to the camp. His assistant, the young man Joshua son of Nun, would not leave the inside of the tent.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
The LORD spoke with Moses face to face, just as a man speaks with his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his assistant, the young man Joshua son of Nun, would not leave the inside of the tent.

American Standard Version
And Jehovah spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his minister Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the Tent.

English Revised Version
And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his minister Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the Tent.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
The LORD would speak to Moses personally, as a man speaks to his friend. Then Moses would come back to the camp, but his assistant, Joshua, son of Nun, stayed inside the tent.

Good News Translation
The LORD would speak with Moses face-to-face, just as someone speaks with a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp. But the young man who was his helper, Joshua son of Nun, stayed in the Tent.

International Standard Version
The LORD would speak to Moses face to face just as a man speaks with his friend. When Moses returned to the camp, Nun's son Joshua, his young servant, would not leave the tent.

Majority Standard Bible
Thus the LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young assistant Joshua son of Nun would not leave the tent.

NET Bible
The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, the way a person speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his servant, Joshua son of Nun, a young man, did not leave the tent.

New Heart English Bible
The LORD spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. He turned again into the camp, but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, did not depart out of the Tent.

Webster's Bible Translation
And the LORD spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaketh to his friend. And he turned again into the camp; but his servant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.

World English Bible
Yahweh spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. He turned again into the camp, but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, didn’t depart from the Tent.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And YHWH has spoken to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend; and he has turned back to the camp, and his minister Joshua, son of Nun, a youth, does not depart out of the tent.

Young's Literal Translation
And Jehovah hath spoken unto Moses face unto face, as a man speaketh unto his friend; and he hath turned back unto the camp, and his minister Joshua, son of Nun, a youth, departeth not out of the tent.

Smith's Literal Translation
And Jehovah spake to Moses face to face, as a man will speak to his friend. And he turned back to the camp; and his minister Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not from the midst of the tent.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man is wont to speak to his friend. And when he returned into the camp, his servant Josue the son of Nun, a young man, departed not from the tabernacle.

Catholic Public Domain Version
But the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, just as a man is used to speaking to his friend. And when he returned to the camp, his minister Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, did not withdraw from the Tabernacle.

New American Bible
The LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, as a person speaks to a friend. Moses would then return to the camp, but his young assistant, Joshua, son of Nun, never left the tent.

New Revised Standard Version
Thus the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then he would return to the camp; but his young assistant, Joshua son of Nun, would not leave the tent.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And the LORD spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. And he returned to the camp; but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not from the tabernacle.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And all the people saw the pillar of cloud that stood in the doorway of the Tabernacle and all the people stood and they worshipped, each person in the door of his tent.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And the LORD spoke unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he would return into the camp; but his minister Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the Tent.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as if one should speak to his friend; and he retired into the camp: but his servant Joshua the son of Naue, a young man, departed not forth from the tabernacle.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Tent of Meeting
10When all the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the entrance to the tent, they would stand up and worship, each one at the entrance to his own tent. 11Thus the LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young assistant Joshua son of Nun would not leave the tent.

Cross References
Numbers 12:8
I speak with him face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the LORD. Why then were you unafraid to speak against My servant Moses?”

Deuteronomy 34:10
Since that time, no prophet has risen in Israel like Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face—

Genesis 32:30
So Jacob named the place Peniel, saying, “Indeed, I have seen God face to face, and yet my life was spared.”

1 Samuel 3:10
Then the LORD came and stood there, calling as before, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.”

1 Kings 19:12-13
After the earthquake there was a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a still, small voice. / When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Suddenly a voice came to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”

Psalm 103:7
He made known His ways to Moses, His deeds to the people of Israel.

Isaiah 6:1-5
In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted; and the train of His robe filled the temple. / Above Him stood seraphim, each having six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. / And they were calling out to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory.” ...

Jeremiah 1:9
Then the LORD reached out His hand, touched my mouth, and said to me: “Behold, I have put My words in your mouth.

Ezekiel 3:22-23
And there the hand of the LORD was upon me, and He said to me, “Get up, go out to the plain, and there I will speak with you.” / So I got up and went out to the plain, and behold, the glory of the LORD was present there, like the glory I had seen by the River Kebar, and I fell facedown.

Amos 3:7
Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets.

John 15:15
No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not understand what his master is doing. But I have called you friends, because everything I have learned from My Father I have made known to you.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

John 14:9
Jesus replied, “Philip, I have been with you all this time, and still you do not know Me? Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?

John 10:27
My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.

2 Corinthians 3:18
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.


Treasury of Scripture

And the LORD spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.

spake

Exodus 33:9
And it came to pass, as Moses entered into the tabernacle, the cloudy pillar descended, and stood at the door of the tabernacle, and the LORD talked with Moses.

Genesis 32:30
And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.

Numbers 12:8
With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?

his friend

2 Chronicles 20:7
Art not thou our God, who didst drive out the inhabitants of this land before thy people Israel, and gavest it to the seed of Abraham thy friend for ever?

Job 16:21
O that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbour!

Isaiah 42:8
I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.

his servant

Exodus 17:9
And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: to morrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in mine hand.

Exodus 24:13
And Moses rose up, and his minister Joshua: and Moses went up into the mount of God.

Exodus 32:17
And when Joshua heard the noise of the people as they shouted, he said unto Moses, There is a noise of war in the camp.

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Camp Depart Departed Face Friend Joshua Minister Moses Nun Servant Speaketh Speaks Tabernacle Tent Turned Used Young
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Camp Depart Departed Face Friend Joshua Minister Moses Nun Servant Speaketh Speaks Tabernacle Tent Turned Used Young
Exodus 33
1. The Lord refuses to go as he had promised with the people
4. The people mourn there
7. The tabernacle is removed out of the camp
9. The Lord talks familiarly with Moses
12. Moses prevails with God, and desires to see his glory














Thus the LORD would speak to Moses face to face
This phrase indicates a unique and intimate communication between God and Moses, suggesting a direct and personal relationship. In the context of the Old Testament, such direct communication was rare and highlights Moses' special role as a prophet and leader. The term "face to face" is metaphorical, as other scriptures (e.g., Exodus 33:20) clarify that no one can see God's face and live. This expression emphasizes the clarity and directness of God's communication with Moses, unlike the dreams and visions given to other prophets (Numbers 12:6-8).

as a man speaks to his friend
This comparison underscores the closeness and familiarity of the relationship between God and Moses. In ancient Near Eastern culture, friendship implied loyalty, trust, and mutual respect. This phrase suggests that Moses had a unique standing with God, characterized by open and honest dialogue. It also foreshadows the New Testament concept of believers being called friends of God through Christ (John 15:15).

Then Moses would return to the camp
After these divine encounters, Moses would go back to the Israelite camp, indicating his role as a mediator between God and the people. This movement between the tent of meeting and the camp symbolizes Moses' dual role as both a spiritual leader and a practical leader of the people. It reflects the ongoing need for guidance and leadership among the Israelites during their wilderness journey.

but his young assistant Joshua son of Nun would not leave the tent
Joshua's presence in the tent signifies his role as Moses' apprentice and future leader of Israel. His dedication and constant presence in the tent of meeting suggest his commitment to God and his preparation for leadership. Joshua's role here foreshadows his eventual succession of Moses and his leadership in the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 1:1-9). This continuity of leadership is crucial for maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who communicates directly with Moses, demonstrating a unique and intimate relationship.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness. He is depicted as having a special relationship with God, speaking "face to face."

3. Joshua son of Nun
Moses' young assistant, who later becomes the leader of Israel after Moses. His presence in the tent signifies his future role and dedication.

4. The Tent of Meeting
A temporary place of worship and communication with God, set outside the camp, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

5. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are being led through the wilderness to the Promised Land. They witness Moses' unique relationship with God.
Teaching Points
Intimacy with God
Moses' relationship with God serves as a model for believers to seek a personal and intimate relationship with the Lord through prayer and obedience.

Leadership and Mentorship
Joshua's presence in the tent highlights the importance of mentorship and preparation for future leadership roles within the faith community.

The Presence of God
The Tent of Meeting symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people. Believers are encouraged to create spaces in their lives where they can meet with God regularly.

Faithfulness in Service
Just as Moses was faithful in his service to God, believers are called to be faithful in their own callings, trusting that God will guide and equip them.(11) Face to face.--Comp. Numbers 12:8; Deuteronomy 34:10. This is clearly spoken of as a privilege peculiar to Moses; but in what exactly the peculiarity consisted is not apparent. Some special closeness of approach is no doubt meant--some nearness such as had been enjoyed by no mortal previously. In later times, Isaiah (Isaiah 6:1-5) and Ezekiel (Ezekiel 1:28) were perhaps equally favoured.

His servant Joshua.--Comp. Exodus 24:13, where Joshua is called Moses' "minister," the word employed in the Hebrew being the same. . . .

Verse 11. - The Lord spake unto Moses face to face. As one present - not as one at a distance - "month to mouth," as we read in Numbers 12:8 - but not under any visible form (see vers. 20, 23, and compare Deuteronomy 4:12, 15). He turned again. After each conference, Moses returned to the camp, where, no doubt, he had put up for himself another tent, and where his presence was needed He left, however, his personal attendant ("minister"), Joshua, to watch and guard the sacred structure during his absence. It is remarkable that the trust was committed to Joshua, rather than to Aaron, or any of the Levites. Probably the reason of this was, that Joshua alone had had no paw in the idolatry of the calf. (See Exodus 32:17.)

CHAPTER 33:12-17

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Thus the LORD
יְהוָ֤ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

would speak
וְדִבֶּ֨ר (wə·ḏib·ber)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue

to
אֶל־ (’el-)
Preposition
Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to

Moses
מֹשֶׁה֙ (mō·šeh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 4872: Moses -- a great Israelite leader, prophet and lawgiver

face
פָּנִ֣ים (pā·nîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 6440: The face

to
אֶל־ (’el-)
Preposition
Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to

face,
פָּנִ֔ים (pā·nîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 6440: The face

as
כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר (ka·’ă·šer)
Preposition-k | Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834: Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that

a man
אִ֖ישׁ (’îš)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 376: A man as an individual, a male person

speaks
יְדַבֵּ֥ר (yə·ḏab·bêr)
Verb - Piel - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue

with
אֶל־ (’el-)
Preposition
Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to

his friend.
רֵעֵ֑הוּ (rê·‘ê·hū)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 7453: Friend, companion, fellow

Then Moses would return
וְשָׁב֙ (wə·šāḇ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7725: To turn back, in, to retreat, again

to
אֶל־ (’el-)
Preposition
Strong's 413: Near, with, among, to

the camp,
הַֽמַּחֲנֶ֔ה (ham·ma·ḥă·neh)
Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 4264: An encampment, an army

but his young
נַ֔עַר (na·‘ar)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 5288: A boy, lad, youth, retainer

assistant
וּמְשָׁ֨רְת֜וֹ (ū·mə·šā·rə·ṯōw)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 8334: To attend as a, menial, worshipper, to contribute to

Joshua
יְהוֹשֻׁ֤עַ (yə·hō·wō·šu·a‘)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3091: Joshua -- 'the LORD is salvation', Moses' successor, also the name of a number of Israelites

son
בִּן־ (bin-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1121: A son

of Nun
נוּן֙ (nūn)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 5126: Nun -- father of Joshua

would not
לֹ֥א (lō)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

leave
יָמִ֖ישׁ (yā·mîš)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 4185: To depart, remove

the tent.
הָאֹֽהֶל׃ (hā·’ō·hel)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 168: A tent


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OT Law: Exodus 33:11 Yahweh spoke to Moses face to face (Exo. Ex)
Exodus 33:10
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