These verses should be seen as a continuation of 33:1-6, illustrating Moses trying to persuade the Lord to reverse His decision not to go with the people. He argues that if he enjoys divine favor and has such close dealings with God, the Lord should not abandon them. God acknowledges the request, but His decision only affects Moses, who again emphasizes that God’s presence is crucial for the people, as it would be the only thing that sets Israel apart from other nations. Ultimately, the Lord also agrees to this request (17). We find two key ideas for the Israelite faith: 1. Without God’s constant presence among them, this people could not survive. The main role of the mediator reflects that of Moses, a role also played by the prophets. Both divine presence and human mediation are rooted in love, mercy, and trust.