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Book of Exodus - Chapter 19 - Verse 23

19:23
And Moses said unto the LORD, The people cannot come up to mount Sinai: for thou chargedst us, saying, Set bounds about the mount, and sanctify it.

Meaning

When Moses said unto the LORD that the people could not come up to Mount Sinai because God had commanded them to set bounds around the mount and sanctify it, he was highlighting the importance of following God's instructions and respecting His holiness. Mount Sinai was a sacred place where God's presence dwelt, and it was essential to approach it with reverence and obedience. By setting boundaries around the mount, the Israelites were demonstrating their acknowledgment of God's authority and their willingness to honor His commands. This verse serves as a reminder to all believers of the significance of maintaining a sacred space for God in our lives and being mindful of His holiness. Just as the Israelites were instructed to sanctify Mount Sinai, we should strive to sanctify our hearts and minds, dedicating ourselves to God's will and following His precepts diligently.

Theological Overview

Within this verse, Moses acknowledges God's commandment to set boundaries around Mount Sinai and consecrate it before the people can approach. This reveals the importance of holiness and reverence in the presence of God. The act of sanctifying the mount signifies a separation from the ordinary and a preparation for encountering the divine. The theological interpretation emphasizes the need for spiritual reverence and obedience to God's instructions. This verse also highlights the idea that God's presence is sacred and must be approached with humility and obedience. By acknowledging the need to sanctify the mountain, Moses demonstrates a deep respect for the holiness of God and underscores the importance of following divine directives. Moreover, the emphasis on sanctification symbolizes the idea of setting apart the sacred from the profane, illustrating the necessity of purity and consecration in approaching the Almighty.

American Standard Version

And Moses said unto Jehovah, The people cannot come up to mount Sinai: for thou didst charge us, saying, Set bounds about the mount, and sanctify it.
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