Exodus 34:8 - Moshe's humble divine encounter

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Hebrew Text

וַיְמַהֵר מֹשֶׁה וַיִּקֹּד אַרְצָה וַיִּשְׁתָּחוּ׃

English Translation

And Moshe made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.

Transliteration

Vayemaher Moshe vayikod artza vayishtachu.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיְמַהֵ֖ר מֹשֶׁ֑ה וַיִּקֹּ֥ד אַ֖רְצָה וַיִּשְׁתָּֽחוּ׃

Parasha Commentary

Moshe's Immediate Response of Humility

The verse (Shemot 34:8) describes Moshe's swift and profound act of bowing (וַיִּשְׁתָּחוּ) upon hearing Hashem's declaration of the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy. Rashi explains that Moshe's haste (וַיְמַהֵר) demonstrates his deep reverence and eagerness to acknowledge Hashem's greatness. The act of bowing signifies complete submission before the Divine Presence.

The Significance of Bowing

Rambam (Hilchot Tefillah 5:13) teaches that bowing (השתחוואה) is a fundamental expression of humility and awe before Hashem. The Talmud (Berachot 34b) states that Moshe's bowing here set a precedent for proper conduct during prayer, emphasizing the need for physical and mental submission when approaching Hashem.

Moshe as a Model of Humility

The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 45:6) highlights that Moshe's immediate bowing reflects his exceptional humility, as described in Bamidbar 12:3 ("Now the man Moshe was exceedingly humble"). His action serves as a lesson in recognizing one's place before the Creator, especially after experiencing Divine revelation.

The Context of the Thirteen Attributes

Ibn Ezra notes that Moshe's bowing occurred specifically after hearing the Thirteen Attributes (Shemot 34:6-7), indicating that true understanding of Hashem's mercy should inspire immediate and profound reverence. The Sforno adds that Moshe's response models how one should react to experiencing Divine compassion.

Practical Lessons from the Verse

The importance of acting swiftly in serving Hashem, without hesitation
The proper physical posture during prayer and moments of Divine connection
The need for humility when standing before Hashem, even for the greatest of prophets
The connection between understanding Hashem's attributes and responding with awe

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sotah 5a

The verse is cited in a discussion about the humility of Moses, emphasizing his quickness to bow and worship as an example of proper reverence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Moshe bow down in Exodus 34:8?
A: Moshe bowed down to show deep reverence and humility before Hashem after receiving the second set of tablets. Rashi explains that this act demonstrated Moshe's complete submission and awe in the presence of the Divine.

Q: What can we learn from Moshe's bowing in this verse?
A: We learn the importance of showing proper respect and humility before Hashem. The Rambam teaches that bowing (hishtachavayah) is an expression of complete devotion, reminding us to approach prayer and divine service with awe and submission.

Q: Why does the verse say Moshe 'made haste' to bow?
A: The Midrash teaches that Moshe acted immediately to show his eagerness to serve Hashem. This teaches us the value of zerizut (alacrity) in performing mitzvot and serving G-d without delay.

Q: Is bowing during prayer based on this verse?
A: Yes, our practice of bowing during certain prayers (like in the Amidah) finds its source in verses like this. The Talmud (Berachot 34b) discusses how Moshe's bowing established a model for proper prayer posture before Hashem.

Q: What's the significance of bowing 'toward the earth' specifically?
A: Rashi notes that bowing completely - with one's face toward the ground - represents total self-nullification before Hashem. This physical act reflects the inner attitude we should cultivate in prayer and divine service.