Exodus 19:17
ESV
Then Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet God, and they took their stand at the foot of the mountain.
NIV
Then Moses led the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain.
NASB
And Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain.
CSB
Then Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain.
NLT
Moses led them out from the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain.
KJV
And Moses brought forth the people out of the camp to meet with God; and they stood at the nether part of the mount.
NKJV
And Moses brought th e people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain.
What does Exodus 19:17 mean?
The nation of Israel is camped at the base of Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:1–2). Moses has relayed instructions for the people to prepare themselves (Exodus 19:7–11, 14–15). God is about to establish a covenant with the nation (Exodus 19:3–6). At the appointed time, the mountain is covered in smoke, fire, lightning, thunder, and earth tremors (Exodus 19:16, 18–19). This inspires fear in the people—as it should. This spectacle sends a message about the unimaginable power and holiness of God (Hebrews 12:18–21).The Israelites approach the base of Sinai at God's signal. They cannot touch the mountain itself, on penalty of death (Exodus 19:12–13). Moses (Exodus 19:20) will bring another warning reminding the people of this restriction (Exodus 19:21–23). Only those invited by the Lord can enter this sacred space (Exodus 19:24–25). During this crucial time, God will establish the laws of His covenant with Israel (Exodus 20:1–21; 1 Kings 8:53).
