31:14–18 · Moses and Joshua are to appear at the entrance to the tabernacle so all the people can witness that it is God who is commissioning Joshua and not Moses alone (31:14–18). The glory of the Lord, which has been their guide throughout the wilderness journey (31:15; Exod. 13:21; 33:9–11; Num. 9:15–23), appears at Joshua’s installation. One more time God uses the occasion to warn Israel of the dreaded curses that will come upon them if they stray from what his law teaches.

31:19–32:47 · So that later generations can have a witness, Moses and Aaron are given a song, which they are to teach to the Israelites and have them sing (31:19). This song will serve as a testimony against them when they turn away from God (31:21).

When Moses has finished writing in a book the words of the law (31:2…