The section between chapter 24 (covenant confirmation) and chapter 32 (covenant breaking) is a collection of Priestly documentation on the tabernacle, the ark, and the priesthood (see below). When the narration of events resumes following this interlude we come to the dramatic and sad affair of Israel's worshipping an idol. This episode demonstrates that almost immediately after the covenant was ratified the Israelites were willing, even eager, to break it.
