Book of Exodus - Chapter 20 - Verse 19

When the Israelites said to Moses, "Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die," they were expressing their fear and awe of the power and holiness of God. The Israelites understood that to hear directly from God was a fearful experience, as His presence was so overwhelming that it could be fatal to them. By asking Moses to be their intermediary, they were seeking a buffer between themselves and the divine presence. This verse highlights the reverence and respect the Israelites had for God, recognizing His holiness and their own unworthiness. It also underscores the importance of having a mediator or prophet to communicate God's messages to the people in a way that is more understandable and less terrifying. Through Moses, God was able to communicate with His people while still respecting their limitations and ensuring their safety.

From a theological perspective, the request of the Israelites for Moses to speak to them on behalf of God reflects the fear and awe they felt in the presence of the Almighty. They understood the holiness and power of God and believed that encountering Him directly could result in their own demise. This passage highlights the Israelites' recognition of their own sinfulness and unworthiness to approach God directly. It also underscores the importance of Moses as a mediator between the people and God, symbolizing the role of Christ as the ultimate mediator between humanity and God in the New Testament.

Word studies on this verse could delve into the meaning of the Hebrew word "dabar," which is translated as "speak." This word carries connotations of command, promise, and communication, emphasizing the authority and reliability of God's word when spoken through a chosen messenger like Moses. Additionally, exploring the Hebrew word for "hear," which is "shama," highlights the active obedience and attentive listening required of the Israelites in response to God's commands. These word studies can deepen our understanding of the nuances and implications of this verse in its original context.