Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 33:11. It’s a really interesting and slightly mysterious passage about God’s plan for Moses. Here's what it essentially means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is talking to Moses directly , as if he were having a conversation with a friend. He’s acknowledging that Moses is special, perhaps even divine, and that this conversation will be important. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face…” – This means God spoke to Moses directly, as if he were speaking to a person. It's not just a booming voice; it feels personal and significant. “…as a man speaketh unto his friend.” - This is a parallel comparison. God is using the image of talking to a friend – a familiar and trusted relationship – to convey that He’s communicating with Moses in a way that's both serious and intimate. “And he turned again into the camp…” - Moses was moving back towards the Tabernacle, the place where God had established His presence among his people. “…but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.” – This is the key part! Joshua, a young man who worked in the Tabernacle (a special building for God’s worship), didn't go back into the Tabernacle. What does this all mean? This verse suggests several things: God is choosing someone to lead the Israelites. Joshua represents a role of leadership and responsibility, and it’s a deliberate choice by God. He’s preparing for a significant event. This isn't just about Joshua going back to the Tabernacle; it’s about something bigger coming up – a time when Israel will be led out of Egypt and into a new land. Joshua is chosen because he’s not tied to the Tabernacle. He’s being given a special role, and his departure isn't because he’s being forced to go back; it’s because he’s chosen for this purpose. In short, it’s a moment of God’s intentional communication with Moses, setting up the next stage of his journey – a journey that will ultimately lead Israel out of slavery. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories? Discuss the symbolism behind it (like the idea of a "servant")?