Exodus 19:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 19:15
15 And he said unto the people, Be ready against the third day: come not at your wives.
Chapter Context
Exodus 19 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, salvation, covenant. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 19:15
15 And he said unto the people, Be ready against the third day: come not at your wives.
Analysis
And he said unto the people, Be ready against the third day: come not at your wives.
Sexual abstinence prepares for divine encounter—not because sexuality is evil but because it's consuming and would distract from single-minded focus on God. The command 'come not at your wives' (אַל תִּגְּשׁוּ אֶל אִשָּׁה, al tiggeshu el ishah) imposes temporary continence for consecration. Similar restrictions appear before battle (1 Samuel 21:4-5) and priestly service—times requiring undivided attention. Paul echoes this principle in 1 Corinthians 7:5 regarding prayer. The third-day emphasis recurs—preparation has a deadline. God's timing is sovereign; we must be ready when He comes. The principle extends spiritually: we prepare for Christ's return by holiness and watchfulness.
Historical Context
Temporary sexual abstinence for religious purposes appears in various ancient cultures, but Israel's practice is distinct—rooted in covenant preparation, not dualistic rejection of the body. The third day arrives with dramatic divine manifestation.
Reflection
- What does temporary abstinence teach about preparing to meet with God?
- How does the principle of consecration before divine encounter apply to Christian worship and prayer?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 19:11, 1 Corinthians 7:5