Exodus 19:24
And the LORD said unto him, Away, get thee down, and thou shalt come up, thou, and Aaron with thee: but let not the priests and the people break through to come up unto the LORD, lest he break forth upon them.
Exodus 19:24 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the LORD commands Moses to go down from the mountain along with Aaron, forbidding the priests and the people from approaching the sacred space lest they face divine consequence. The LORD's warning underscores the importance of respecting the boundaries established for worship and reverence. By instructing Moses and Aaron to ascend while cautioning others against infringing upon the designated area, the LORD emphasizes the need for proper preparation and consecration before entering into the presence of the Lord. This directive serves as a reminder of the holiness and power of God, which necessitates obedience and reverence from those seeking to draw near to Him. By following these instructions, Moses and Aaron are able to approach the Lord without fear of retribution, emphasizing the importance of following divine guidance and maintaining a reverent attitude in the presence of the Almighty.
Theological Overview
This verse is from Exodus 19:24, where God instructs Moses to go down the mountain and then return with Aaron, but warns them not to let the priests or the people come up with them or attempt to break through to the Lord, lest God break forth upon them. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the holiness and reverence that the Israelites were required to have for God. The command for Moses and Aaron to come up the mountain alone signifies the unique role they played as intermediaries between the people and God. The warning to not allow others to come near the Lord highlights the importance of approaching God with fear and respect. The word "break forth" could signify God's powerful presence erupting in judgment against those who do not follow His commands. This verse reminds us of the need to approach God with humility and obedience, recognizing His holiness and authority.
Exodus 19:24 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Jehovah said unto him, Go, get thee down; and thou shalt come up, thou, and Aaron with thee: but let not the priests and the people break through to come up unto Jehovah, lest he break forth upon them.
World English Bible
Yahweh said to him, “Go down! You shall bring Aaron up with you, but don’t let the priests and the people break through to come up to Yahweh, lest he break out against them.”
Douay-Rheims
And the Lord said to him: Go, get thee down; and thou shalt come up, thou and Aaron with thee: but let not the priests and the people pass the limits, nor come up to the Lord, lest he kill them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the Lord sayd vnto him, Go, get thee downe, and come vp, thou, and Aaron with thee: but let not the Priestes and the people breake their boundes to come vp vnto the Lord, least he destroy them.