Israel at Mount Sinai
Exodus 19:1-25
Exo.19.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- בחדש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,cstr
- השלישי: ADJ,m,sg,def
- לצאת: VERB,qal,inf
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- ביום: PREP
- הזה: DEM,m,sg
- באו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- מדבר: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
- סיני: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exod 19:2 (structural): Immediate continuation of the same narrative — specifies their encampment at Sinai after departing Rephidim, closely tied to v.1's timing and location.
- Num 33:15 (verbal): In the itinerary of Israel's wanderings this verse repeats the movement 'from Rephidim to the wilderness of Sinai,' echoing the same place-name and travel sequence.
- Deut 5:2-3 (thematic): Moses' retelling of the covenant at Horeb/Sinai links the giving of the law to Israel's arrival at Sinai, thematically echoing Exod 19's setting and covenant context.
- Ps 106:19-22 (thematic): Psalmist recalls Israel's actions at Horeb/Sinai (the golden calf episode) and thus presupposes the same arrival at Sinai after the Exodus described in Exod 19:1.
Alternative generated candidates
- In the third month from the going out of the sons of Israel from the land of Egypt, on that very day they came to the wilderness of Sinai.
- In the third month after the sons of Israel had gone out from the land of Egypt, on that very day they came into the wilderness of Sinai.
Exo.19.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויסעו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- מרפידים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ויבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- מדבר: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
- סיני: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ויחנו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- במדבר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויחן: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- שם: ADV
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- נגד: PREP
- ההר: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Exod.3:1 (verbal): Moses comes to Horeb (the mountain of God) in the wilderness — Sinai/Horeb identification and the wilderness arrival motif echo Exod.19:2.
- Deut.1:6 (quotation): Deuteronomy recalls the Lord speaking 'in Horeb' and the people's encampment there, reflecting the same Sinai/Horeb setting and Israel's halt at the mountain.
- Deut.5:2-4 (thematic): The covenant at Horeb/Sinai and Israel standing before the mountain parallels Exod.19's scene of Israel encamped opposite the mountain prior to revelation.
- Num.10:11-12 (structural): Narrates Israel's later departure 'from the wilderness of Sinai' after having encamped there, showing the same Sinai encampment as a narrative landmark.
- 1 Kings 19:8-9 (allusion): Elijah's journey to Horeb and encounter at 'the mountain of God' invokes the Sinai/Horeb motif of coming to the mountain for divine revelation, echoing Exod.19:2.
Alternative generated candidates
- They set out from Rephidim and came to the wilderness of Sinai, and they camped in the wilderness; and Israel camped there in front of the mountain.
- And they set out from Rephidim and came to the wilderness of Sinai and camped in the wilderness; and Israel camped there opposite the mountain.
Exo.19.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ומשה: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עלה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויקרא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- אליו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- מן: PREP
- ההר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- כה: ADV
- תאמר: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- לבית: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,cns
- יעקב: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ותגיד: CONJ+VERB,hiph,impf,2,m,sg
- לבני: PREP
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exod.3.4 (verbal): God summons Moses directly ("Moses! Moses!") at the start of a revelation; parallels the divine call that initiates Moses' commission to speak to Israel.
- Exod.24.1 (structural): God tells Moses to 'come up' to the LORD and to bring the elders — echoes the motif of ascending the mountain and receiving instruction to address the people.
- Lev.1.1 (verbal): Uses the same revelation formula, "And the LORD called unto Moses," marking the pattern whereby God calls Moses and gives commands to be communicated to Israel.
- Num.11.16-17 (thematic): God directs Moses to gather seventy elders to assist in leading Israel; parallels God giving Moses instructions about organizing and speaking to the community.
- Deut.5.4-5 (thematic): Recounts God speaking from the mountain and Moses acting as mediator between God and the people — similar scene of divine speech at Sinai and Moses' role in conveying God's words.
Alternative generated candidates
- Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain, saying, Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and declare to the sons of Israel:
- And Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain, saying, Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob and declare to the sons of Israel:
Exo.19.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- ראיתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- אשר: PRON,rel
- עשיתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- למצרים: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,pl
- ואשא: VERB,qal,impf,1,?,sg
- אתכם: PRT+PRON,2,m,pl
- על: PREP
- כנפי: NOUN,f,pl,const
- נשרים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ואבא: VERB,qal,imperf,1,m,sg
- אתכם: PRT+PRON,2,m,pl
- אלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
Parallels
- Deut.32.11 (verbal): Uses the same eagle-wing imagery: 'like an eagle that stirs up its nest... he bore him on his wings,' a near-verbal parallel depicting God's protective transport of Israel.
- Isa.40.31 (verbal): Speaks of those who 'mount up with wings like eagles,' echoing the motif of divine renewal/rescue by eagle wings applied here to God's care for Israel.
- Rev.12.14 (allusion): The woman is given 'the two wings of the great eagle' to flee into the wilderness—an explicit New Testament appropriation of the eagle-wings rescue motif rooted in Exodus/Deuteronomy.
- Exod.6.6 (thematic): Announces God's deliverance from Egypt ('I will free you... I will bring you out'), providing the broader deliverance context behind the 'I carried you on eagles' wings' claim in Exod 19:4.
Alternative generated candidates
- You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt—how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself.
- You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself.
Exo.19.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועתה: CONJ
- אם: CONJ
- שמוע: VERB,qal,infabs
- תשמעו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- בקלי: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,1,sg
- ושמרתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- בריתי: NOUN,f,sg,abs+1cs
- והייתם: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- סגלה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מכל: PREP
- העמים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- כי: CONJ
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- כל: DET
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
Parallels
- Deut.7.6 (verbal): Uses the same idea and Hebrew term (סגלה) of Israel as God's 'treasured possession'—linking chosenness/holiness to covenant relationship and obedience.
- Deut.14.2 (verbal): Repeats the language of being a 'treasured possession' (סגלה) and the motif of Israel's special status before the nations because of God's election.
- Mal.3.17 (verbal): Prophetic echo: 'they shall be mine... a special treasure' directly echoes Exodus' wording of God's people as his treasured possession.
- 1 Pet.2.9 (allusion): New Testament appropriation of the Exodus theme—believers are described as a 'chosen race... a holy nation... God’s own people,' reflecting election, holiness, and divine possession.
Alternative generated candidates
- Now therefore, if you will indeed listen to my voice and keep my covenant, then you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine.
- And now, if you will indeed heed my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession out of all the peoples, for all the earth is mine.
Exo.19.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואתם: CONJ+PRON,2,pl
- תהיו: VERB,qal,imf,2,pl
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- ממלכת: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- כהנים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- וגוי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- קדוש: ADJ,m,sg
- אלה: DEM,pl,abs
- הדברים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- תדבר: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- 1 Peter 2:9 (quotation): Directly echoes Exodus 19:6’s language—'a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation'—applying the Exodus designation to the Christian community.
- Revelation 5:10 (quotation): Speaks of the redeemed as 'a kingdom and priests' to God, explicitly reflecting Exodus’ idea of Israel as a priestly kingdom.
- Revelation 1:6 (allusion): Says Christ 'has made us a kingdom, priests to his God,' an explicit echo of the Exodus description of God’s people as a priestly kingdom.
- Deuteronomy 14:2 (thematic): Describes Israel as 'a people holy to the LORD' and chosen as his treasured possession, thematically paralleling the 'holy nation'/chosen status of Exodus 19:6.
Alternative generated candidates
- And you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words you shall speak to the sons of Israel.
- And you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel.
Exo.19.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויבא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויקרא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- לזקני: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,cons
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וישם: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לפניהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- כל: DET
- הדברים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- האלה: DEM,pl
- אשר: PRON,rel
- צוהו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exodus 24:3 (verbal): Very similar wording and action — Moses again 'came' and declared to the people 'all the words of the LORD,' forming part of the covenant enactment.
- Deuteronomy 5:1 (thematic): Moses summons the assembly to announce the commandments; same motif of the leader publicly presenting divine law to Israel.
- Joshua 8:34-35 (structural): Joshua publicly reads 'all the words of the law' to the people after victory — mirrors the institutional practice of public proclamation and covenant reception.
- Nehemiah 8:1-8 (allusion): Ezra reads and explains the Law to the assembled people, echoing the Exodus pattern of public reading and instruction of God's commands.
Alternative generated candidates
- So Moses came and called the elders of the people, and set before them all these words that the LORD had commanded him.
- So Moses came and called the elders of the people, and set before them all these words that the LORD had commanded him.
Exo.19.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויענו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- כל: DET
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- יחדו: ADV
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- כל: DET
- אשר: PRON,rel
- דבר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- נעשה: VERB,qal,impf,1,pl
- וישב: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- דברי: NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,1,c,sg
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אל: NEG
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exodus 24:3-8 (quotation): Repeats and expands the same declaration — the people answer with one voice, 'All the words which the LORD hath said will we do,' and Moses seals the covenant (verbal formula and covenant ritual).
- Deuteronomy 5:27 (verbal): The people ask Moses to hear God's words for them and pledge, 'we will hear it, and do it,' echoing the willingness-to-obey formula found in Exod 19:8.
- Joshua 24:24 (thematic): At covenant renewal Joshua records the people’s commitment to serve and obey the LORD — a later instance of communal pledge to follow God's commands.
- Nehemiah 10:28-29 (structural): After reading the law the community enters a formal covenant and oath to walk in God's statutes — a post-exilic parallel to the Sinai covenant renewal pattern in Exod 19–24.
Alternative generated candidates
- And all the people answered together and said, All that the LORD has spoken we will do. And Moses brought back the words of the people to the LORD.
- And all the people answered together and said, All that the LORD has spoken we will do. And Moses brought back the words of the people to the LORD.
Exo.19.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הנה: PART
- אנכי: PRON,1,sg
- בא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- בעב: PREP
- הענן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בעבור: PREP
- ישמע: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בדברי: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,const
- עמך: NOUN,m,sg,suff-2m
- וגם: CONJ
- בך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- יאמינו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- לעולם: ADV
- ויגד: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- דברי: NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,1,c,sg
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אל: NEG
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exod.24:15-18 (structural): Cloud covers Sinai and the glory of the LORD descends on the mountain—same motif of God coming in a cloud to meet Moses and manifest divine presence on the mountain.
- Exod.20:18-19 (verbal): The people hear God's voice at Sinai and ask Moses to speak for them—directly parallels the purpose that God would speak to Moses so the people might hear and believe him.
- Deut.5:4-5 (thematic): Deuteronomic retelling of Sinai emphasizes God speaking to Israel from the fire/cloud and Moses' intermediary role—echoes the concern that the people hear God's words through Moses.
- Num.12:6-8 (verbal): God contrasts how He speaks to prophets and to Moses (mouth to mouth/face to face), underscoring the unique direct communication promised in Exodus 19 and Moses’ authoritative role.
- Psalm 99:7 (allusion): The psalm recalls God speaking to Israel 'in the pillar of cloud' and the people's response to God's statutes—links the cloud-theophany and the communicative purpose described in Exod 19:9.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the LORD said to Moses, Behold, I am coming to you in a thick cloud, so that the people may hear when I speak with you, and so that they may also believe in you forever. And Moses told the words of the people to the LORD.
- And the LORD said to Moses, Behold, I am coming to you in a thick cloud, so that the people may hear when I speak with you, and may also believe in you forever. Then Moses told the words of the people to the LORD.
Exo.19.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וקדשתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- היום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ומחר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וכבסו: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,pl
- שמלתם: NOUN,f,sg,abs+3,m,pl
Parallels
- Exod.19:14–15 (structural): Immediate parallel in the same narrative: repeats the command to consecrate the people, wash garments, and prepare them for the theophany on the third day (same instructions and context).
- Lev.8:6 (verbal): During the consecration of Aaron and his sons Moses 'washed them with water' (cf. washing garments/people here) as part of ritual sanctification for service.
- Lev.16:4 (thematic): The high priest is commanded to bathe before entering the Holy Place — a related ritual requirement that links washing with access to God and holiness.
- Num.8:6–7 (thematic): The Levites are cleansed and washed as part of their consecration to service, paralleling the motif of washing as preparatory sanctification for divine encounter or service.
- Heb.10:22 (allusion): New Testament application of the OT sacrificial/cleansing imagery: believers are urged to draw near with hearts 'sprinkled' and 'bodies washed with pure water,' echoing the association of washing and consecration in Exodus 19.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the LORD said to Moses, Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their garments.
- And the LORD said to Moses, Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their garments.
Exo.19.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והיו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- נכנים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- ליום: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- השלישי: ADJ,m,sg,def
- כי: CONJ
- ביום: PREP
- השלישי: ADJ,m,sg,def
- ירד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לעיני: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,cons
- כל: DET
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- על: PREP
- הר: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- סיני: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exod.19.16 (structural): Same narrative: on the third day (morning) the LORD descends on Mount Sinai with thunder and smoke — immediate continuation of the event announced in 19:11.
- Exod.20.18-21 (thematic): The whole assembly experiences theophany—thunder, lightning, trumpet and voice—and reacts in fear; parallels the public, visible nature of God’s coming in 19:11.
- Exod.24.16-18 (structural): Describes the glory of the LORD resting on Mount Sinai and Moses entering the cloud—another depiction of God’s manifest presence on Sinai.
- Deut.4.11-12 (allusion): Moses’ retelling of Israel ‘standing under the mountain’ and hearing God’s voice parallels the account of a public theophany at Sinai.
- Psalm 68:8 (thematic): Poetic recall of Sinai trembling/moving at God’s presence, alluding to the dramatic divine appearance on the mountain.
Alternative generated candidates
- And let them be ready for the third day, for on the third day the LORD will come down, in the sight of all the people, upon Mount Sinai.
- And let them be ready for the third day, for on the third day the LORD will come down in the sight of all the people on Mount Sinai.
Exo.19.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והגבלת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- סביב: ADV
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- השמרו: VERB,hitpael,imp,2,m,pl
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- עלות: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- בהר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- ונגע: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בקצהו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- כל: DET
- הנגע: PART,qal,ptcp,m,sg,def
- בהר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- מות: VERB,qal,infabs
- יומת: VERB,niphal,impf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Exod.19.13 (verbal): Direct repetition/continuation of the prohibition: restates that no hand shall touch the mountain and that anyone who does shall be put to death.
- Exod.24.2 (structural): Moses is instructed to tell the people not to come up with him to the LORD—another instance of delimiting access to the mountain and prescribing separation of the people from the sacred encounter.
- Exod.3.5 (thematic): God commands Moses not to come near or touch the holy ground at the burning bush (take off your sandals), reflecting the theme of sacred space requiring distance and reverence.
- Lev.10.1-3 (thematic): The death of Nadab and Abihu for unauthorized approach/ritual action before God underscores the danger of improper contact with the holy and enforces boundaries around divine presence.
- Heb.12.18-21 (allusion): The New Testament contrasts believers' access to Mount Zion with the terrifying, untouchable Sinai that could not be approached—echoing the Sinai prohibition, the fear of touching the mountain, and the threat of judgment.
Alternative generated candidates
- And you shall set bounds for the people all around, saying, Beware of going up the mountain or touching its edge; whoever touches the mountain shall surely be put to death.
- And you shall set boundaries for the people all around, saying, Beware of going up on the mountain or touching its edge; whoever touches the mountain shall surely be put to death.
Exo.19.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לא: PART_NEG
- תגע: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- בו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- יד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- סקול: VERB,qal,ptc,m,sg
- יסקל: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- או: CONJ
- ירה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יירה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אם: CONJ
- בהמה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אם: CONJ
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לא: PART_NEG
- יחיה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- במשך: PREP
- היבל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- המה: PRON,3,m,pl
- יעלו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- בהר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Exodus 19:12 (verbal): Immediate context: gives the same command to set limits and warns that touching the mountain will result in death — continuation of the prohibition in 19:13.
- Exodus 24:1-2 (structural): Similar restriction on who may ascend to the Lord — Moses tells the people to remain below while only certain leaders go up, reflecting the boundary between the holy mountain and the people.
- Leviticus 10:1-2 (thematic): Nadab and Abihu are struck dead for offering unauthorized fire before the Lord — a parallel example of death resulting from improper approach to divine holiness.
- Numbers 16:31-33 (thematic): Korah’s rebellion: the earth opens and swallows the presumptuous leaders — another narrative where unlawfully approaching God’s designated space brings immediate, fatal judgment.
- Deuteronomy 4:11-12 (allusion): Description of Israel standing at a distance from Sinai during the theophany emphasizes separation from the mountain and the awe/fear that prevents approach, echoing the trumpet-bound prohibition in Exod 19:13.
Alternative generated candidates
- No hand shall touch him, but he shall surely be stoned or shot through; whether beast or man, he shall not live. When the ram’s horn sounds a long blast, they may go up on the mountain.
- No hand shall touch him, but he shall surely be stoned or surely shot with arrows; whether beast or man, he shall not live. When the ram’s horn sounds a long blast, they shall go up on the mountain.
Exo.19.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וירד: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מן: PREP
- ההר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אל: NEG
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויקדש: VERB,piel,imperfect,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויכבסו: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,pl
- שמלתם: NOUN,f,sg,abs+3,m,pl
Parallels
- Exod.19:10 (verbal): Immediate parallel within the same scene: God instructs Moses to ‘sanctify the people’ and have them wash their garments; 19:14 reports Moses carrying out that command.
- Josh.3:5 (thematic): Joshua commands the people to sanctify themselves before the LORD does a miraculous act — parallel theme of ritual purification in preparation for a divine revelation or intervention.
- Lev.16:4 (thematic): Aaron must change garments and wash before entering the holy place on the Day of Atonement; parallels the motif of washing and putting on/cleaning garments prior to encountering God.
- Exod.24:4-8 (structural): Continuation of the Sinai covenant sequence: Moses reads the covenant and performs rites that consecrate the people (sprinkling blood), a related act of communal consecration following the sanctification/washing in 19:14.
Alternative generated candidates
- So Moses went down from the mountain to the people and consecrated the people, and they washed their garments.
- So Moses went down from the mountain to the people and consecrated the people; and they washed their garments.
Exo.19.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- היו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- נכנים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- לשלשת: PREP+NUM,m,sg,cons
- ימים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- אל: NEG
- תגשו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- אשה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exod.19.10 (structural): Immediate instruction that precedes vv.14–15: Moses tells the people to be sanctified and to wash their clothes as preparation for the theophany — part of the same three‑day consecration.
- Exod.19.14 (structural): Directly contiguous verse in the same narrative: Moses sanctifies the people and they wash their clothes; v.15 then adds the prohibition against approaching women — the concrete enactment of the preparation.
- Deut.23.10-11 (thematic): Regulates temporary exclusion and separation from the camp for bodily emissions until purification is complete — a related concern with sexual/ritual purity and communal readiness for sacred presence.
- Lev.16.4 (thematic): The high priest must bathe and change garments before entering the Holy of Holies on Yom Kippur; shares the motif of cleansing and separation required before an encounter with God.
- 1 Cor.7.5 (thematic): Paul’s allowance for temporary abstinence from sexual relations for prayer and devotion parallels the practice of refraining from intimacy to prepare for a sacred event or focused religious engagement.
Alternative generated candidates
- And he said to the people, Be ready for three days; do not approach a woman.
- And he said to the people, Be ready for three days; do not go near a woman.
Exo.19.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- ביום: PREP
- השלישי: ADJ,m,sg,def
- בהית: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- הבקר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- קלת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- וברקים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- וענן: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כבד: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- ההר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וקל: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שפר: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- חזק: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- מאד: ADV
- ויחרד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- כל: DET
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- במחנה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exodus 20:18 (verbal): Same Sinai theophany immediately following — thunder, lightning/trumpet and the people trembling; part of the contiguous narrative describing divine presence and fear of the assembly.
- Deuteronomy 5:22 (quotation): Moses' later retelling of the Sinai event uses similar language (fire, cloud, thick darkness, loud voice/trumpet), explicitly quoting and summarizing the original manifestation.
- Psalm 29:3-9 (thematic): Poetic depiction of 'the voice of the LORD' in thunder and over the waters — echoes the association of God’s voice with thunder, storm imagery, and powerful, earth-shaking effects.
- Habakkuk 3:3-6 (thematic): Prophetic theophany portraying God coming in clouds/brightness with earthquake and nations trembling — thematically parallels Sinai as a cosmic, awe‑inspiring divine manifestation.
- 1 Kings 19:11-12 (allusion): Elijah’s encounter on Horeb contrasts Sinai motifs (wind, earthquake, fire) and the culminating 'still small voice' — an intentional literary engagement with the Sinai theophany tradition.
Alternative generated candidates
- And it happened on the third day, when morning dawned, that there were thunders and lightnings, and a heavy cloud upon the mountain, and a very loud sound of a ram’s horn; and all the people who were in the camp trembled.
- And it happened on the third day, when it was morning, that there were thunders and lightnings and a heavy cloud on the mountain, and a very loud sound of a ram’s horn, and all the people who were in the camp trembled.
Exo.19.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויוצא: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לקראת: PREP
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מן: PREP
- המחנה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויתיצבו: VERB,hitpael,impf,3,m,pl
- בתחתית: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ההר: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Deuteronomy 4:10-11 (quotation): Moses' retelling of Sinai: the people 'stood at the foot of the mountain' while the LORD spoke—directly recalls the scene of Israel being brought out to meet God.
- Exodus 24:9-11 (structural): Continuation of the Sinai narrative: Moses with the elders goes up to God and the elders 'saw the God of Israel,' paralleling the movement from camp to the mountain and the theophanic assembly.
- Hebrews 12:18-21 (allusion): New Testament reflection on Sinai's terrifying, physically perceptible theophany ('a mountain that may be touched'), echoing Israel's encounter and standing before God at the mountain.
- Acts 7:38-39 (allusion): Stephen's retelling of Moses and the assembly at Sinai—recalls Israel being brought out of the camp to receive God's words and stand before the mountain.
Alternative generated candidates
- Then Moses brought the people out from the camp to meet God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain.
- Then Moses brought the people out from the camp to meet God, and they took their stand at the foot of the mountain.
Exo.19.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- סיני: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- עשן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- מפני: PREP
- אשר: PRON,rel
- ירד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- עליו: PREP,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- באש: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ויעל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- עשנו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- כעשן: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הכבשן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויחרד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- כל: DET
- ההר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מאד: ADV
Parallels
- Exod.20:18 (verbal): Same Sinai theophany language — thunder/lightning, trumpet, people trembling and the mountain conspicuously smoking and terrifying the people.
- Exod.24:15-18 (structural): Close narrative parallel describing Moses on Sinai with a cloud, the glory of the LORD like consuming fire, dense smoke (like a furnace) and the mountain enveloped while Moses remained forty days.
- Deut.4:11-12 (allusion): Retells the Sinai appearance emphasizing fire, smoke, darkness and the mountain smoking because the LORD descended, echoing Exod.19:18 imagery.
- Deut.5:22-27 (verbal): Another reprise of the Sinai scene — people frightened by thunder, lightning and the mountain’s terrifying display as the LORD spoke, reflecting the same motifs of smoke and dread.
- Nahum 1:5 (thematic): Thematic parallel stressing cosmic fear before God — 'the mountains quake' before the LORD, echoing the mountain’s violent trembling in Exod.19:18.
Alternative generated candidates
- Now Mount Sinai was altogether in smoke, because the LORD had descended upon it in fire; and its smoke went up like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain trembled greatly.
- Now Mount Sinai was all wrapped in smoke, because the LORD had descended upon it in fire; its smoke went up like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain trembled greatly.
Exo.19.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- קול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- השופר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- הולך: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
- וחזק: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- מאד: ADV
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ידבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- והאלהים: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,def
- יעננו: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- בקול: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exod.20:18-19 (structural): Direct narrative continuation of the Sinai theophany describing thunder, trumpet, and the people's reaction and Moses' role as mediator.
- Deut.4:11-12 (allusion): Deuteronomy's retelling of the Sinai experience — God speaking from fire with sound/voice — echoes the Exodus account of God's audible response to Moses.
- Ps.29:3-9 (thematic): Poetic depiction of 'the voice of the LORD' in thunder and mighty sound, thematically resonant with the trumpet/voice imagery at Sinai.
- Heb.12:18-21 (quotation): New Testament reference to the terrifying Sinai revelation (voice that made hearers beg no further word), explicitly drawing on the Exodus theophany described in 19:16–19.
Alternative generated candidates
- As the sound of the ram’s horn grew louder and louder, Moses would speak, and God answered him with a voice.
- And as the sound of the ram’s horn grew louder and louder, Moses would speak, and God would answer him with a voice.
Exo.19.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וירד: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- הר: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- סיני: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- ראש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ההר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויקרא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- למשה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- ראש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ההר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויעל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exodus 24:15-18 (structural): A closely related narrative: God descends on Mount Sinai, a cloud covers the mountain, and Moses goes up into the cloud to receive the tablets (same scene continued and expanded).
- Exodus 34:2-5 (verbal): Repeat of the motif of Moses ascending the mountain at God's summons and the LORD descending in a cloud to meet him—parallel wording and action in a later covenant-renewal episode.
- Deuteronomy 4:11-12 (quotation): Deuteronomy retells the Sinai encounter: the people stood at the mountain while the LORD spoke from fire and cloud—an explicit restatement of the Sinai theophany.
- Hebrews 12:18-21 (thematic): New Testament contrast of Mount Sinai's terrifying theophany with Mount Zion; echoes the Sinai imagery of God's presence on the mountain and the fear it inspired.
- Acts 7:38 (allusion): Stephen's speech recalls God's revelation to Moses at Sinai and Moses' mediatorial role—an early Christian retelling that alludes to the same Sinai event.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the LORD came down upon Mount Sinai, to the top of the mountain. The LORD called Moses to the top of the mountain, and Moses went up.
- And the LORD came down upon Mount Sinai, to the top of the mountain; and the LORD called Moses to the top of the mountain, and Moses went up.
Exo.19.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- רד: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- העד: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בעם: PREP
- פן: CONJ
- יהרסו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לראות: VERB,qal,inf
- ונפל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- ממנו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- רב: ADJ,m,sg
Parallels
- Exod.19:12-13 (verbal): Immediate parallel in the same scene: God instructs Moses to set bounds around the mountain and warn the people not to break through to behold the LORD, the direct context of Exod.19:21.
- Lev.10:1-2 (thematic): Nadab and Abihu are consumed for offering unauthorized fire before the LORD—a thematic parallel about death as the consequence of improper approach to God's presence.
- Num.16:31-35 (thematic): Korah's rebellion and the earth swallowing the rebels who challenged Moses/approached the sacred precincts—another instance of judgment on those who transgress the boundary around God's presence.
- 2 Sam.6:6-7 (thematic): Uzzah struck dead for touching the ark—a narrative parallel stressing lethal danger in unauthorized contact or approach to a holy object of the LORD.
- Heb.12:18-21 (quotation): The NT cites the Sinai theophany and its terrifying effects, explicitly echoing Exodus' warnings about approaching God and the fear that accompanied Moses—an interpretive/quotational allusion to Exod.19 and related passages.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the LORD said to Moses, Go down, warn the people, lest they break through to the LORD to gaze, and many of them fall.
- And the LORD said to Moses, Go down, warn the people, lest they break through to the LORD to gaze, and many of them perish.
Exo.19.22 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וגם: CONJ
- הכהנים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- הנגשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- אל: NEG
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- יתקדשו: VERB,hitpael,impf,3,m,pl
- פן: CONJ
- יפרץ: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בהם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Exod.19.10 (verbal): Same scene/section instructing Moses to sanctify the people (use of קדש/להתקדש); sets up consecration as prerequisite for approaching Yahweh.
- Lev.10.3 (quotation): After Nadab and Abihu's deaths Aaron is told, 'Through those near to me I will be sanctified'—a direct statement linking God's holiness with danger for those who approach him improperly.
- Lev.21.6 (thematic): Priestly purity regulations: priests must be holy and not profane the name of God—echoes the requirement that those who draw near must be sanctified to avoid divine wrath.
- Exod.29:44-46 (structural): God declares he will consecrate the tabernacle and Aaron/sons as priests so that he may dwell among Israel—parallels the formal consecration required for safe access to Yahweh.
- 2 Sam.6:7 (thematic): Uzzah struck dead for touching the ark demonstrates the lethal consequences when individuals touch or come near the sacred in an improper manner, paralleling the caution 'lest the LORD break out against them.'
Alternative generated candidates
- Even the priests who come near to the LORD must consecrate themselves, lest the LORD break out against them.
- And also the priests who come near to the LORD must consecrate themselves, lest the LORD break out against them.
Exo.19.23 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לא: PART_NEG
- יוכל: VERB,qal,impf,3,ms
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לעלת: INF,qal,inf
- אל: NEG
- הר: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- סיני: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- העדתה: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- בנו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- הגבל: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- ההר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וקדשתו: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg+PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Exod.19:12-13 (verbal): Immediate divine command to set bounds and sanctify the mountain — the same instruction Moses cites; near-verbatim and contextually contiguous.
- Exod.19:21-24 (structural): God reiterates warnings and prescribes a boundary around Sinai (do not come up or touch the border), directly addressing access to the holy mountain and enforcing the consecration Moses mentions.
- Deut.4:11-12 (thematic): Moses’ later retelling of Sinai: the people stood at the foot of the mountain while God spoke from fire and the people were not to approach — echoes the restriction and sanctity of the mountain.
- Hebrews 12:18-21 (allusion): The NT recalls the Sinai scene and the terrifying, exclusionary commands (including stoning if touched), alluding to the same boundary-and-holiness motif to contrast with the new covenant.
- Lev.10:1-3 (thematic): The deaths of Nadab and Abihu for unauthorized approach to God's presence underscore the wider Torah principle that holiness requires strict boundaries and restricted access, paralleling the concern that the people not ascend Sinai.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Moses said to the LORD, The people cannot come up to Mount Sinai, for you yourself have warned us, saying, Set bounds around the mountain and consecrate it.
- And Moses said to the LORD, The people cannot go up to Mount Sinai, for you yourself warned us, saying, Set boundaries around the mountain and sanctify it.
Exo.19.24 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אליו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- רד: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- ועלית: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- ואהרן: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עמך: NOUN,m,sg,suff-2m
- והכהנים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,def
- והעם: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,def
- אל: NEG
- יהרסו: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,pl
- לעלת: PREP+VERB,qal,inf
- אל: NEG
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- פן: CONJ
- יפרץ: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- בם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Exodus 19:12–13 (verbal): Same scene: God orders boundaries around Sinai and warns that no one may touch or ascend the mountain on pain of death—directly parallels the prohibition and danger in 19:24.
- Exodus 20:18–21 (structural): After the giving of the commandments the people stand afar off while Moses draws near to the thick darkness—similar motif of the people kept at a distance from the divine encounter.
- Exodus 24:1–2 (structural): Only Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu and seventy elders are permitted to ascend the mountain while the people remain below, reflecting the restricted access God prescribes in 19:24.
- Leviticus 10:1–3 (thematic): Nadab and Abihu offer unauthorized fire and are struck down by divine wrath—illustrates the lethal risk of improper priestly approach to God, echoing the warning in 19:24.
- Numbers 16:31–35 (thematic): Korah’s rebellion leads to divine judgment (earth swallowing and fire consuming) against those presuming to intrude into sacred roles—another instance where unauthorized approach to God brings deadly consequences.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the LORD said to him, Go down; then you shall come up, you and Aaron with you. But let not the priests and the people break through to come up to the LORD, lest he break out against them.
- And the LORD said to him, Go, go down; then you shall come up, you and Aaron with you. But the priests and the people shall not break through to come up to the LORD, lest he break out against them.
Exo.19.25 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וירד: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- משה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- העם: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אלהם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Exodus 32:19 (verbal): Same basic motif and wording of Moses descending from the mountain to the people (וירד משה מן־ההר); both narrate Moses' return to address Israel after an encounter on the mountain.
- Deuteronomy 5:1 (thematic): Moses summons and speaks to the entire assembly to communicate God's words and law (ויקרא משה את־כל־ישראל ויאמר אליהם); parallels the function of Moses 'coming down' to deliver instruction to the people.
- Joshua 24:1 (structural): Joshua gathers and calls all the tribes to address them (ויקרא יהושע את־כל־שבטי־ישראל); a structural parallel showing the common leadership-act of summoning Israel to proclaim covenantal instruction or judgment.
- 1 Samuel 12:1 (thematic): Samuel stands before all Israel and addresses them about leadership and covenant responsibility (ויאמר שמואל אל־כל־ישראל); parallels the prophetic/leader role of publicly addressing the people after a divine or judicial moment.
Alternative generated candidates
- So Moses went down to the people and said to them.
- So Moses went down to the people and said to them.
In the third month after the children of Israel came out from the land of Egypt, on that very day they came to the wilderness of Sinai.
They set out from Rephidim, came to the wilderness of Sinai, and camped in the wilderness; and Israel camped there in front of the mountain. And Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain, saying, Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and declare to the children of Israel:
You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. Now therefore, if you will indeed listen to my voice and keep my covenant, then you shall be my treasured possession from among all peoples, for all the earth is mine. And you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the children of Israel. So Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and set before them all these words that the LORD had commanded him. And all the people answered together and said, All that the LORD has spoken we will do. And Moses brought back the people’s words to the LORD. And the LORD said to Moses, Behold, I am coming to you in a thick cloud, so that the people may hear when I speak with you, and may also believe in you forever. And Moses told the words of the people to the LORD. And the LORD said to Moses, Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow, and they shall wash their garments. And they shall be ready for the third day; for on the third day the LORD will come down in the sight of all the people upon Mount Sinai. And you shall set bounds for the people all around, saying, Take care not to go up the mountain or touch its edge. Whoever touches the mountain shall surely be put to death.
No hand shall touch him, but he shall surely be stoned or shot with arrows; whether beast or man, he shall not live. When the ram’s horn sounds long, they may go up on the mountain. So Moses went down from the mountain to the people and consecrated the people, and they washed their garments. And he said to the people, Be ready for three days; do not go near a woman. And it happened on the third day, when morning came, that there were thunders and lightnings, and a heavy cloud on the mountain, and a very loud sound of a ram’s horn; and all the people who were in the camp trembled. And Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet God, and they took their stand at the foot of the mountain. Now Mount Sinai was altogether in smoke because the LORD had come down upon it in fire; and its smoke went up like the smoke of a kiln, and the whole mountain trembled greatly. And as the sound of the ram’s horn grew louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God answered him with a voice. And the LORD came down on Mount Sinai, to the top of the mountain; and the LORD called Moses to the top of the mountain, and Moses went up. And the LORD said to Moses, Go down, warn the people, lest they break through to the LORD to look, and many of them fall. And even the priests who come near to the LORD must consecrate themselves, lest the LORD break out against them. And Moses said to the LORD, The people cannot go up to Mount Sinai, for you yourself warned us, saying, Set bounds around the mountain and consecrate it. And the LORD said to him, Go, go down and then come up, you and Aaron with you; but the priests and the people must not break through to come up to the LORD, lest he break out against them. So Moses went down to the people and said to them.