Whedon's Commentary on the Bible - Exodus 34:30
30. They were afraid At a former time (Exodus 20:19) they had said to Moses, “Speak thou with us, and we will hear; but let not God speak with us, lest we die . ” Now Moses bears upon his face so much of the divine glory that they fear to talk even with him . read more
Wesley's Explanatory Notes - Exodus 34:30
And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him.And Aaron and the children of Israel saw it, and were afraid — It not only dazzled their eyes, but struck such an awe upon them as obliged them to retire. Probably they doubted whether it was a token of God's favour, or of his displeasure. read more