(Exodus 19 — 12) "And you shall 'bound' the people" — I might

Mekhilta DeRabbi Yishmael Mekhilta Tractate Bachodesh 3:11

Curated by The Jewish Mythology Team · Published January 8, 2025

(Exodus 19:12) "And you shall 'bound' the people": I might think only at the east of the mountain, (where they were encamped). It is, therefore, written "roundabout." "saying": We are hereby apprised that they exhorted each other in this regard. "Take heed unto yourselves": this constitutes a negative commandment. "not to go up on the mountain": I might think that he may not go up, but he may touch it; it is, therefore, written "Whoever touches the mountain." I might think that he may not climb and that he may not touch it but he may ascend in a sedan-chair; it is, therefore, written "not to go up on the mountain" (in any manner). "Whoever touches the mountain shall be put to death": This is the punishment.

Themes

Torah Divine justice Death

Biblical References

Exodus 19:12

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