King James Bible
"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."
Moses appeals to the favor he has already received from God, using it as the basis for his bold request. This follows God's anger over the golden calf incident, where Moses successfully interceded for Israel, establishing his unique standing before the Lord. Moses asks to understand God's methods and character more deeply, recognizing that knowing God's ways leads to knowing God himself. This request goes beyond mere information-seeking to desire intimate relationship and understanding of divine purposes. Moses seeks continued and increasing favor, understanding that deeper knowledge of God will enable him to please God more fully. This creates a cycle where grace leads to knowledge, which leads to more grace. Moses reminds God of Israel's covenant relationship, subtly requesting that God's favor toward him extend to the entire nation. Despite their recent rebellion, Moses emphasizes their identity as God's chosen people, appealing for corporate restoration.