Definition: Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation [is] thy people.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 33:13. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage about God’s plan for Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is looking at Israel – specifically, the Israelites – and he wants to see them. He wants to understand who they are, their character, and how they're going to be treated. He’s essentially saying, “I’m interested in you; let me see what you’re like.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Now therefore, I pray thee…” – This is a formal way of addressing someone and asking for their permission or favor. It's a bit reverent. “…if I have found grace in thy sight…” - “Grace” here means God’s favor or approval. He’s acknowledging that he has seen something good about them. “Show me now thy way…” – This is the core of the verse. God wants to know the Israelites better. He's asking them to reveal their character, their behavior, and their identity. “…that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight:” - This emphasizes the desire for understanding. God wants to understand them – their strengths and weaknesses, their loyalty, and their spirit. “Find grace” means to be blessed by God. “…and consider that this nation [is] thy people.” – This is the crucial part. It’s a very powerful statement. "This nation" refers to Israel. The phrase “this nation” is a bit complex and has been interpreted in different ways throughout history. It means this specific group of people - those God has chosen for his purposes. It suggests they are more than just a collection of individuals; they’re considered a whole, with their own unique identity and destiny. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse is about God's covenant – a special agreement between him and Israel. It signifies that God isn’t just interested in Israel as a nation-state, but also in understanding them individually, with their character and purpose. It suggests a future where God will use Israel for his purposes, and he wants to know them intimately before making those uses. Important Note: The exact meaning of "this nation" has been debated over the centuries. It's often interpreted as referring to the entire history and lineage of the Israelites, but it can also be seen as a symbolic reference to God’s chosen people. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss its historical context? Explore the different interpretations of “this nation”?