Philosophical interpretations of Exodus 3:14 – a brief historical overview

Abstract

The ontological assumptions underlying the Hebrew wording of Exodus 3:14 are rather elusive. As a locus classicus for philosophical speculation since at least the time of the LXX, this verse has shown itself to be open to a multiplicity of explications. As a result, several philosophical readings are available which seek to clarify the concepts encountered in the text with the aid of more elaborate metaphysical or post-metaphysical terms. This paper offers an introductory overview of the reception history of Exodus 3:14, with special attention to representative philosophical interpretations from Platonism to post-modernity.