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Writer's pictureEdward D. Andrews
Nov 65 min read

EXODUS 3:13-15 – How Are We to Understand the Theological Significance of God's Self-Revelation?



Exodus 3:14 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

14 God said to Moses, “I am what I am” And he said, “Say this to the sons of Israel: ‘I am sent me to you.’”


Liberal scholars would argue, 'I would add that scholars and theologians have proposed various interpretations of Exodus 3:14 over the centuries, reflecting different aspects of this rich and complex self-disclosure of Jehovah. Some have highlighted the aspect of God's eternality and self-existence, while others, like yourself, have underscored the active and dynamic nature of God's being. It is important to understand that these different interpretations are not necessarily mutually exclusive but may provide complementary insights into the multifaceted nature of God's self-revelation. While my earlier commentary emphasized the aspects of eternality and self-existence, I acknowledge and respect your interpretation that brings out God's dynamic and active involvement in the world and His commitment to fulfilling His purposes and promises. Our different interpretations of Exodus 3:14 reflect the richness of this passage and the depth of God's self-disclosure. By engaging with the text at this level, we gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of Jehovah's character and His active involvement in the world.


Any time a person interjects the comment, the richness of this passage, know immediately you are dealing with liberal scholarship. These scholars believe that the reader determines the passage's meaning, meaning that you can have as many meanings as you do readers.

One needs to consider the linguistic and contextual aspects of this passage. My understanding of the phrase "I Will Become What I Choose to Become" is well-supported by a close reading of the Hebrew text, and we should at least consider the careful consideration of its nuances.


The Hebrew phrase, "אֶהְיֶֽה אֲשֶֽׁר אֶהְיֶֽה" (Eh·yehʹ ʼAsherʹ Eh·yehʹ) is derived from the verb "היה" (hāyāh), which carries the primary sense of "to be" or "to become." This suggests a dynamic, active becoming or proving to be, which fits well with the interpretation that God can and will become what is necessary to fulfill His purposes and promises.


Our interpretation also needs to consider the broader context of God's self-revelation throughout the Scriptures. This broader understanding emphasizes Jehovah's active involvement in the world, His ability to fulfill various roles, and His determination to bring His plans to fruition, regardless of the circumstances.


It's important to understand that Moses was not asking for Jehovah to reveal His name. Moses and the Israelites were already aware of God's name. (Genesis 2:4) Instead, Moses desired that Jehovah reveal something about His nature that would bolster their faith, something that might also reflect in the meaning of His name. Therefore, when Jehovah responded, "I Will Become What I Choose to Become," He indicated a fascinating aspect of His character: He becomes whatever is necessary in every situation to fulfill His plan. For example, to Moses and the Israelites, Jehovah became a Rescuer, Lawgiver, Provider, and more. This shows that Jehovah chooses to be whatever is required to fulfill His promises to His people. Nevertheless, the name Jehovah encompasses more than what He chooses to be—it also includes what He brings about in His creation to accomplish His purpose.


The interpretations above seem more suitable because they illustrate God's ability to be whatever He needs to be. Nothing can hinder Him from adopting any role necessary to achieve His objectives. His plans and promises invariably come to fruition. Notably, God demonstrated His role as the Creator, the One possessing boundless power to manifest His will. He brought the physical universe into existence and created countless spiritual beings. Indeed, He is a God who makes things happen!



Even so, understanding the historical-grammatical context of Exodus 3:14 is not a straightforward task. The original Hebrew phrase, "אֶהְיֶֽה אֲשֶֽׁר אֶהְיֶֽה" (Eh·yehʹ ʼAsherʹ Eh·yehʹ), is a complex and enigmatic expression. The term "אֶהְיֶֽה" (Eh·yehʹ), derived from the verb "היה" (hāyāh), can mean both "I am" and "I will be", suggesting both a state of being and a process of becoming.


Based on the context of Exodus 3, it appears that God was revealing to Moses something significant about His character and His purpose for Israel. The above interpretation highlights the dynamic, active aspect of God's character, as seen in His determination to fulfill His promises and His ability to adapt to different circumstances. This understanding aligns well with the historical-grammatical context of the passage, where God is preparing to deliver the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and establish them as His covenant people.


However, we should also consider the grammatical aspect of the phrase. The term "אֶהְיֶֽה" (Eh·yehʹ) in its present form can be understood as "I am," suggesting an eternality and unchangeability in God's being. This interpretation doesn't contradict our understanding but adds another facet to God's self-revelation.


In summary, the intent is not to suggest that Exodus 3:14 has multiple meanings. Every Bible verse has but one meaning, which is what the author meant by the words that he used. Rather, it is to acknowledge the complexity and depth of this self-disclosure of God, as seen in the historical-grammatical context of the passage and the linguistic nuances of the original Hebrew.



About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220 books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).


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