Exodus 19:16
And it came to pass on the third day in the morning, that there were thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud upon the mount, and the voice of the trumpet exceeding loud; so that all the people that was in the camp trembled.
Exodus 19:16 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse describes a significant event in the Bible when the Israelites were camped at the foot of Mount Sinai. On the third day in the morning, as they awaited the presence of God, there were thunder and lightning, a thick cloud covering the mountain, and the sound of a trumpet that was extremely loud. These manifestations of nature were a powerful display of God's presence and majesty. The thunder and lightning represented God's power and authority, while the cloud symbolized His glory and holiness. The loud trumpet blast signified the importance of the moment and the need for the people to pay attention. The trembling of the people in the camp reflected their awe and fear in the presence of the Almighty. This verse serves as a reminder of the power and majesty of God, calling the people to reverence and obedience.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the presence of thunders, lightnings, a thick cloud, and a loud trumpet sound on Mount Sinai serves as a powerful symbol of God's majesty and the importance of His communication with His people. The use of these natural phenomena conveys the awe-inspiring nature of God's presence and His authority over creation. The third day mentioned in the verse is significant in biblical numerology, symbolizing completion and the beginning of a new era. The trembling of the people in the camp highlights the fear and reverence they felt in the presence of God's glory. This event also foreshadows the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai, emphasizing the importance of obedience and reverence towards God's commands. Overall, this verse showcases the dramatic and powerful way in which God reveals Himself to His people, setting the stage for the divine revelation and guidance that follows throughout the Bible.
Exodus 19:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it came to pass on the third day, when it was morning, that there were thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud upon the mount, and the voice of a trumpet exceeding loud; and all the people that were in the camp trembled.
World English Bible
On the third day, when it was morning, there were thunders and lightnings, and a thick cloud on the mountain, and the sound of an exceedingly loud trumpet; and all the people who were in the camp trembled.
Douay-Rheims
And now the third day was come, and the morning appeared: and behold thunders began to be heard, and lightning to flash, and a very thick cloud to cover the mount, and the noise of the trumpet sounded exceeding loud; and the people that was in the camp, feared.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the thirde day, when it was morning, there was thunders and lightnings, and a thicke cloude vpon the mount, and the sounde of the trumpet exceeding loude, so that all the people, that was in the campe, was afrayde.