Translations
Modern
For they could not bear what was commanded: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.”
Traditional
(For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart:
Literal
…for they could not bear that being commanded: “If even a beast should touch the mountain, it will be stoned.”
Latin
Non enim portabant quod dicebatur: Et si bestia tetigerit montem, lapidabitur.
Original
Greek
English
For they could not bear what was commanded: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.”
Notes
This passage compares the old covenant with the new one. The old covenant is represented by Mount Sinai (12:18–21). It was impersonal, frightening, and unapproachable. The mountain shook with loud sounds, flashes of light, and fearful power. The new covenant is represented by Mount Zion (12:22–24). It is personal, welcoming, and joyful.
Parallels
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Hebrews, Letter to the Zion
Topics
Covenant: The Second Covenant Fear of God: Cultivated God: Glory of The Law of Moses: Darkness at Giving of, Illustrative of Obscurity of The Law of Moses: None to Approach the Mount While God Gave Vision of the Israelites of the Manifestation of the Glory of God