Exodus 24:3 (KJV)

What does Exodus 24:3 mean?

Exodus 24:3 describes how Moses reported all the words and judgments of the LORD to the people of Israel, and the people responded together, promising to do everything the LORD had said. This verse shows a moment of agreement between Moses, as the messenger, and the people, as they commit to follow God's instructions.

In this scene, Moses comes down from meeting with God and communicates God's commands and decisions to the Israelites. The people, hearing these words, answer as one group with a unified voice, expressing their willingness to obey all that has been spoken. This sets the stage for the formal covenant that follows, highlighting both Moses' role as a mediator and the people's collective commitment.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 24:3

• The word for "judgments" is מִשְׁפָּטִים (mishpatim), which refers to specific legal decisions or ordinances. This shows that Moses is relaying not just general commands but detailed laws that will shape community life.
• The phrase "answered with one voice" uses קוֹל (qol, "voice") and אֶחָד (echad, "one"), emphasizing the unity of the people in their response. This stresses that the commitment was not just individual but a shared, communal promise.
• The verb for "do" is עָשָׂה (asah), which means to act, make, or accomplish. The people's promise is not just verbal agreement but a pledge to put these words into action.

Why Exodus 24:3 matters

• This verse clarifies that the people's commitment was public and unanimous, not just a private or partial agreement, which is important for understanding the seriousness of the covenant.
• The focus on both "words" and "judgments" shows that God's instructions included both broad principles and specific laws, shaping the identity and daily life of Israel.
• Exodus 24:3 connects directly to the covenant ceremony that follows, making it clear that the people's promise forms the foundation for their relationship with God as described in the next verses.