Exodus 24 - Introduction

The vision of Jehovah(vv.1 2, 9 11). The ratification of the covenant(vv.3 8). Moses ascends the mount to receive(E) the tables of stone(vv.12 15a, 18b), and(P) directions for the construction of a sanctuary(vv.15b 18a).

The chapter is evidently not a unity. In Exo Exodus 24:1 Moses is directed to -come up" where he already is, and where he has been since Exodus 20:21: on the other hand, vv.3 8 form a natural and excellent sequel to Exodus 20:22 to Exodus 23:33; Moses communicates to the people the words which he has received, and they agree solemnly to abide by them. Similarly if v.12 is the true sequel of vv.9 11, Moses is again commanded to come up where he already is: v.12, however, would follow v.8 (where Moses is below, with the people) quite naturally, and vv.9 11 are obviously the proper sequel to vv.1 2 (comp. v.9 with v.1). In the latter part of the ch., vv.15b 18a are shewn by their phraseology to belong to P. It is thus evident that the narrative of E (Exodus 20:1 to Exodus 23:33; Exodus 24:3-8; Exodus 24:12-15 a, Exodus 24:18 b) has been interrupted in this chapter by the introduction of vv.1 2, 9 11 from J, and of vv.15b 18a from P. For the sequel in E to v.18b, see Exodus 31:18 b.