Exodus 19b Commentary
This is exactly two months after leaving Egypt. We encounter new words like consecration and hear about priests (Verse 24). These should be new concepts for the community, but they are mentioned with strange familiarity like they existed and were fully functional even before Moses defined them.
The guess is that priests and the concept of consecration existed in Israel long before Moses’ time. But the LORD God won’t accept every Jim and Jack to serve Him, and so the sons of Levi would be elected to the office not long after this event.
Of course, the goal is to upgrade every Jim and Jack so that all can serve as priests of the LORD God. Verse 6.
Many other rituals would be introduced but with new definitions. Many other rituals would still resemble what men and women did in other places – like what Jethro did in Midian or what Joseph’s father-in-law did in Egypt.
Who exactly is this God that Moses is talking to and about? The Hebrews must have the right picture. To consecrate is to set apart for a special purpose, in this case, a special occasion. It involves mental and physical preparedness and consequently, readiness.
The God of the Hebrews isn’t one you interact with cheaply. He won’t respond to enchantments and wishes of the worshippers like pagan gods. He won’t respond to the “secret arts”. Instead, He is set apart; He is holy. Israel isn’t allowed to touch even the symbol of His presence!
He shows up at His will.
Physical cleanliness is a must. They must keep away from sexual relations as part of the consecration process. It’s obviously a huge break from the pagan gods whose worship would often involve sexual orgies. Shrine prostitution existed for this very purpose! But the Creator God is holy – set apart.
By this time, Israel knows the maker of the storm. The Egyptian Sun god isn’t supreme anymore. Now they must meet the Supreme Being – the Creator God.
Not even animals must be allowed to touch the Mountain of the LORD. Israel must know: The God of the Hebrews isn’t any of the animals, a bull, frog, snake, or any animal representation. He is all by Himself – self-defined!
Thunder and lightning, a thick cloud, and a very loud trumpet blast – that’s how the LORD shows up. The entourage. Elements of nature in attendance! But we also have a musical component – a very loud trumpet blast out of some heavenly trumpet!
Fire and smoke – the entire mountain on fire, but it isn’t burning. Israel experiences what Moses experienced! The sound of the trumpet, already very loud, grows louder and louder.
Who wouldn’t tremble!
If your son asked you what God looked like at the Mountain, what would be your answer? It’s probably an impossible answer. That’s the point! “But He was there,” you are likely to protest.
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