Definition: And the LORD said unto Moses, Go down, charge the people, lest they break through unto the LORD to gaze, and many of them perish.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Exodus 19:21. It’s a really important passage about God’s protection and guidance. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, this verse is saying: “God wants to help the Israelites (the people he had given to them) stay safe and not get too excited or want to push through into a special place.” Let's unpack that a little more: "Go down..." : This means God is sending someone – likely Moses – to lead the people. "...charge the people..." : God wants to instruct the Israelites, tell them what to do. "...lest they break through unto the LORD..." : This is the key part. "Break through" means to push or go past a boundary. The Israelites were about to try and get through a barrier – maybe it was a wall, a gate, or something that separated them from God’s presence. "...to gaze..." : “Gaze” means to look intently, to stare. The Israelites were looking too closely at the holy place, which is reserved for God. They were getting too excited and wanting to see what was inside. "...and many of them perish." : This is the scary part – it means that if they get too enthusiastic and push through, some people might lose their minds and die. So, the whole verse is a warning from God. He’s trying to keep the Israelites focused on what’s important: staying in a special place of holiness and avoiding temptation or obsession. Why is this important? It's a reminder that we need to be careful not to get carried away with our own desires or thoughts, especially when it comes to something sacred like God’s presence. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Exodus 19? Discuss the significance of this verse in a broader context (like its impact on the Israelites' journey)?