2 Corinthians 3:13

Hebrew Bible Modern 1977

ולא כמשה אשר נתן מסוה על פניו פן יביטו בני ישראל אל סוף העמד להבטל:

What Does This Mean?

This verse talks about Moses putting a veil over his face so the Israelites couldn't see how his shining glory faded away. It's Paul writing, highlighting that Jesus' message is clearer and more revealing than the old laws.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a bright flashlight but cover it with your hand. Others can't see the light as well anymore. Moses did something like that with a veil to hide how his special glow faded away.

Historical Background

This verse is from Paul's letter to the Corinthians, written around 54-57 AD. He wrote this to encourage and instruct the Corinthian church about the superiority of Jesus' message over the old laws given through Moses.

Living It Out Today

Today, we might apply this by ensuring our actions are transparent so others can clearly see how following Jesus transforms us, rather than hiding behind veils that obscure our growth in Christ.

Topics

• transparency
• revelation
• comparison
• Jesus vs. old laws
• shining glory
• veil

Related Verses

• Exodus 34:29-35
• Hebrews 8:6-13
• Romans 3:21-28
• Ephesians 2:11-22
• John 1:17

Recommended Reading

Commentary 2 Corinthians Commentaries → Get This Bible Hebrew Bible Modern Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Moses put a veil over his face?

Moses covered his face because the radiance from meeting God was so intense that it could have harmed others. He wanted to protect them until this glow faded.

What does the veil symbolize in 2 Corinthians 3:13?

The veil represents a barrier to understanding and seeing clearly, contrasting with the clarity of Jesus' message which doesn't need such a veil.

How is Paul's message about Jesus different from Moses' laws?

Paul emphasizes that Jesus' teachings reveal God’s grace directly without needing the veiled laws of the Old Testament, making salvation clearer and more accessible.

Can you explain the fading glory mentioned in this verse?

The 'fading glory' refers to Moses' shining face after speaking with God. This glow was temporary and faded away over time, unlike Jesus' permanent presence and message of grace.