2:1 the angel of the Lord. A theophany, that is, a visible revelation of God. See 6:11–24; 13:2–23. The words of God’s preeminent messenger (6:11–24; Ex. 3:1–17) are the words of the Lord Himself. The Angel of the Lord led Israel out of captivity in Egypt and fought for them (Ex. 14:19; 23:20–23; 33:2; Num. 20:16; Is. 63:9).

Gilgal. The ark of the covenant was at Gilgal (Josh. 5:1–12).

I brought you up from Egypt. The Ten Commandments begin with the same statement (Ex. 20:2; Deut. 5:6), a reminder that the history of what God has done is linked to His commands. The Sovereign God who publishes the covenant identifies Himself as the Benefactor of His people.

and brought you into the land that I swore. God kept His oath (Josh. 23:3–16). The chief difference here between God and His people is that God keeps His vow while the people break theirs.

I will never break my covenant. See Deut. 7:9.