31:18 two tablets of the testimony. See note Deut. 5:22. Some suggest that these were two identical copies. Consistent with ancient Near Eastern suzerainty treaties, one copy belonged to each treaty partner and the copies were housed in the respective sanctuaries. The ark was both the focal point of Israel’s sanctuary and the special dwelling place of God. Hence, both copies were placed in the ark.

finger of God. See 8:19.