26 This is a bold anthropomorphism; it is as if God has now had a chance to get to know these people and has discovered how rebellious they are. The point of the figure is that there has been discernible evidence of their nature.
27 Heb “and behold” or “and look.” The expression directs attention in order to persuade the hearer.
28 B. Jacob says the image is that of the people walking before God, and when he called to them the directions, they would not bend their neck to listen; they were resolute in doing what they intended to do (Exodus, 943). The figure describes them as refusing to submit, but resisting in pride.

In other versions

And the Lord said to Moses, “I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people.

“I have seen these people,” the Lord said to Moses, “and they are a stiff-necked people.

The Lord also said to Moses, “I have seen this people, and they are indeed a stiff-necked people.

Then the Lord said, “I have seen how stubborn and rebellious these people are.

And Yahweh said to Moses, “I have seen this people, and, indeed, they are a stiff-necked people.

And the Lord said unto Moses, I have seen this people, and, behold, it is a stiffnecked people:

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