Exodus 19:1-13 ▼

1 In the third month, on the same day of the month that the Israelites (God prevails) had left the land of Egypt (land of bondage), they came to the Wilderness of Sinai (thorny).

2 After they had set out from Rephidim (resting places), they entered the Wilderness of Sinai (thorny), and Israel (he wrestles with God) camped there in front of the mountain.

3 Then Moses (drawn out) went up to God {Elohim}, and the LORD {YHWH} called to him from the mountain, “This is what you are to tell the house of Jacob (he grasps the heel) and explain to the sons of Israel (he wrestles with God):

4 ‘You⁺ have seen for yourselves what I did to Egypt (land of bondage), and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you⁺ to Myself.

5 Now if you⁺ will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you⁺ will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine.

6 And unto Me you⁺ shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you are to speak to the Israelites (God prevails).”

7 So Moses (drawn out) went back and summoned the elders of the people and set before them all these words that the LORD {YHWH} had commanded him.

8 And all the people answered together, “We will do everything that the LORD {YHWH} has spoken.” So Moses (drawn out) brought their words back to the LORD.

9 The LORD {YHWH} said to Moses (drawn out), “Behold, I will come to you in a dense cloud, so that the people will hear when I speak with you, and they will always put their trust in you.” And Moses relayed to the LORD what the people had said.

10 Then the LORD {YHWH} said to Moses (drawn out), “Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow. They must wash their clothes

11 and be prepared by the third day, for on the third day the LORD {YHWH} will come down on Mount Sinai (thorny) in the sight of all the people.

12 And you are to set up a boundary for the people around the mountain and tell them, ‘Be careful not to go up on the mountain or touch its base. Whoever touches the mountain shall surely be put to death.

13 No hand shall touch him, but he shall surely be stoned or shot with arrows—whether man or beast, he must not live .’ Only when the ram’s horn sounds a long blast may they approach (go up on) the mountain.