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Book of Exodus - Chapter 19 - Verse 15

19:15
And he said unto the people, Be ready against the third day: come not at your wives.

Meaning

In this verse, Moses is relaying a message from God to the people of Israel. He instructs them to prepare themselves for the third day, emphasizing the importance of spiritual readiness. By asking the people to abstain from physical relations with their spouses, God is symbolizing the need for a singular focus on Him and His commandments. This period of abstinence serves as a symbol of purification and consecration, preparing the people for a holy encounter with God. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and dedication to the Lord before receiving His word. This verse highlights the significance of spiritual preparation and the need to set aside earthly distractions in order to fully receive the divine message. By obeying this command, the people demonstrate their commitment to God and their willingness to follow His guidance.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Exodus, God is instructing the Israelites through Moses to prepare themselves for a significant event that will take place on the third day. The phrase "Be ready against the third day" signifies the importance of being spiritually and physically prepared to meet with God. The command for the people to abstain from relations with their wives for a period of time before this event is significant in the context of ancient Jewish customs. The act of abstaining from marital relations was a common practice before the Israelites were to approach God, as a way to consecrate themselves and show reverence for the presence of the divine. This command also serves as a reminder of the need for purity and self-discipline when coming before God. Through a theological lens, this verse emphasizes the importance of readiness, holiness, and preparation when seeking to encounter God in a meaningful way.

American Standard Version

And he said unto the people, Be ready against the third day: come not near a woman.
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