Exodus 20:20-26

20 Moshe answered the people, "Don't be afraid, because God has come only to test you and make you fear him, so that you won't commit sins."

21 So the people stood at a distance, but Moshe approached the thick darkness where God was. (A: Maftir)

22 ADONAI said to Moshe, "Here is what you are to say to the people of Isra'el: 'You yourselves have seen that I spoke with you from heaven.

23 You are not to make with me gods of silver, nor are you to make gods of gold for yourselves. (S: Maftir)

24 For me you need make only an altar of earth; on it you will sacrifice your burnt offerings, peace offerings, sheep, goats and cattle. In every place where I cause my name to be mentioned, I will come to you and bless you.

25 If you do make me an altar of stone, you are not to build it of cut stones; for if you use a tool on it, you profane it.

26 Likewise, you are not to use steps to go up to my altar; so that you won't be indecently uncovered.'"

Exodus 20:20-26 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO EXODUS 20

In this chapter we have an account of the giving of the law on Mount Sinai; the preface to it, Ex 20:1,2, the ten commandments it consists of, Ex 20:8-17, the circumstances attending it, which caused the people to remove at some distance, Ex 20:18, when they desired of Moses, that he would speak to them and not God, who bid them not fear, since this was for the trial of them; but still they kept at a distance, while Moses drew nigh to God, Ex 20:19-21 who ordered him to caution the children of Israel against idolatry, and directed what sort of an altar he would have made whereon to offer their sacrifices, promising that where his name was recorded he would grant his presence and blessing, Ex 20:22-26.