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"So terrifying was the sight..."

Text: Hebrews 12:21

IN TERROR OF THE LORD

God’s appearance to the children of Israel at Mt. Sinai was an experience that held rich spiritual lessons! The following text attempts to interpret the response of both the children of Israel and Moses.

“(For they could not endure what was commanded:
‘And if so much as a beast touches the mountain,
it shall be stoned or shot with an arrow.’
And so terrifying was the sight that Moses said,
‘I am exceedingly afraid and trembling.'”)
Hebrews 12:20-21

1. Understanding the citation of OT texts
(With reference to the response of the children of Israel)

a) The text cited was from Exodus 19:13 (Hebrews 12:20).

b) The author’s comment to be distinguished from the quotation.

i) The author’s comment represents his understanding.

ii) It offers an additional insight as to how the children of Israel felt.

iii) The text in Exodus 19:13 did not comment on this matter specifically.

iv) The comment of the author must be taken as valid.

2. Another insight of how a Bible text may be quoted
(With reference to the response of Moses)

a) The author noted that Moses also was trembling before God.

b) The text cited was from Deuteronomy 9:19 (Hebrews 12:21).

c) However the text from Deuteronomy 9:19 described a different incident.

i) Moses was pleading with God on behalf of Israel when it sinned by worshiping a golden calf.

ii) Moses felt God’s anger and was terrified of it, but persisted in prayer.

d) The author surmised that Moses must have trembled before God when He manifested Himself at Mt. Sinai. His comment is not without merit.