Definition: And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Exodus 20:19. It's a really significant moment in the story of the Israelites and God’s relationship with them. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is setting a boundary – a rule – for how He will interact with the people he has chosen to be his nation. He wants to keep the connection between Him and them strong and clear. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us…” : This means that the Israelites were in a situation where they felt like God wasn’t listening to them or understanding their needs. They were feeling frustrated and perhaps even rebellious. “…and we will hear:” - This is a plea for God to communicate with them again. They were yearning for a conversation, a reason why He was giving them instructions. “but let not God speak with us, lest we die.” : This is the crucial part! It’s a warning. God is saying that if He starts speaking to them again, it could mean something bad will happen. It's a fear of divine intervention – a fear that His word might be interpreted as a command or punishment. What does this mean practically? This verse speaks to several important themes: Respect for God’s Word: It highlights the importance of respecting God’s authority and words, even when it's difficult. Fear of Divine Judgment: It shows that God isn’t always willing to simply do things; He might be mindful of potential consequences. A Desire for Clarity: This verse demonstrates a need for clear communication – for God to clearly define His intentions and expectations. In essence, it's a moment where God is establishing boundaries and protecting the Israelites from potentially upsetting or harmful interactions. --- Do you want me to explain another Bible passage? Perhaps one that focuses on a specific theme like love, forgiveness, or obedience? Just let me know!