Exodus 19:10

KJV

And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to morrow, and let them wash their clothes,

KJV (with Strong's)

And the LORD {H3068} said {H559} unto Moses {H4872}, Go {H3212} unto the people {H5971}, and sanctify {H6942} them to day {H3117} and to morrow {H4279}, and let them wash {H3526} their clothes {H8071},

Complete Jewish Bible

so ADONAI said to Moshe, "Go to the people; today and tomorrow separate them for me by having them wash their clothing;

Berean Standard Bible

Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow. They must wash their clothes

American Standard Version

And Jehovah said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to-day and to-morrow, and let them wash their garments,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 19:10 initiates a profound period of preparation for the Israelites, commanding them to undergo a two-day process of sanctification, including the washing of their clothes, before their direct encounter with God at Mount Sinai. This divine directive underscores the absolute holiness of the Lord and the meticulous reverence required of His people, establishing foundational principles for their unique covenant relationship and setting the stage for the giving of the Law.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This command is strategically placed within the narrative of Israel's arrival at the Wilderness of Sinai, following their miraculous deliverance from Egypt. [Exodus 19:1-2](/exodus/19-1 "Exodus 19:1-2 - Israel Arrives at Sinai") sets the geographical scene, establishing the location where God intends to formalize His covenant with His newly redeemed people. Immediately preceding this verse, God reiterates His mighty acts of salvation, reminding Israel how He carried them "on eagles' wings" and brought them to Himself, proposing that they become His "treasured possession," a "kingdom of priests," and a "holy nation" if they faithfully obey His voice and keep His covenant ([Exodus 19:3-6](/exodus/19-3-6 "Exodus 19:3-6 - God's Covenant Proposal and Israel's Affirmation")). Moses, acting as the indispensable mediator, communicates God's terms to the people, who unanimously affirm their willingness to obey. Thus, [Exodus 19:10](/exodus/19-10 "Exodus 19:10 - God Commands Israel's Sanctification") marks the practical commencement of the preparation for the theophany, leading directly to the giving of the [Ten Commandments](/exodus/20 "Exodus 20 - The Ten Commandments") and the formal establishment of the Mosaic Covenant.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Having recently escaped centuries of Egyptian bondage, the Israelites were transitioning from a collection of enslaved tribes into a unified nation under God's direct rule. Their wilderness journey was a period of both physical and spiritual formation. In the broader ancient Near East, rituals of purification were common prerequisites for approaching deities or entering sacred spaces. However, Israel's purification was distinct: it was not an attempt to appease an unpredictable deity but a response to the gracious invitation of a holy God who desired to dwell among His people. The commands to wash clothes and abstain from sexual relations ([Exodus 19:15](/exodus/19-15 "Exodus 19:15 - Further Preparations for Sinai")) were tangible, outward expressions of an inward consecration, signifying a separation from the common and profane in preparation for a sacred encounter with the divine. This meticulous preparation underscored the profound holiness of Yahweh and the seriousness of the covenant He was about to establish, profoundly shaping Israel's identity and mission as a people set apart.

* **Key Themes:** [Exodus 19](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - Israel at Sinai") is rich with foundational theological themes, and verse 10 contributes significantly to their development. The overarching theme is **Divine Holiness and Human Access**, emphasizing that God is utterly distinct and pure, requiring a corresponding state of purity from those who would approach Him. This verse also highlights the theme of **Covenant Initiation and Preparation**, as the physical acts of cleansing serve as a visible manifestation of the people's readiness and commitment to enter into a unique relationship with Yahweh. The concept of **Mediation** is also prominent, with Moses serving as the essential intermediary between God and the people, conveying divine commands and facilitating the covenant. Finally, the theme of **Obedience as a Prerequisite for Blessing** is reinforced, as the people's willingness to "sanctify" themselves is directly linked to their ability to stand before God and receive His Law, setting the pattern for their future relationship with Him as outlined throughout the book of [Exodus](/exodus/1 "Exodus 1 - The Book of Exodus").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** From הָיָה; (the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God; Jehovah, the Lord. In this context, "LORD" refers to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. His direct address to Moses signifies the divine authority and the personal nature of the impending covenant. It emphasizes that the command for sanctification originates from the sovereign, eternal God who has chosen Israel.
* **sanctify (Hebrew, _qâdash'_):** A primitive root; to be (causatively, make, pronounce or observe as) clean (ceremonially or morally). When God commands Moses to "sanctify them," it means to set the people apart, to consecrate them, and to make them ritually and spiritually clean. This act of sanctification was not merely ceremonial but was intended to prepare the people inwardly and outwardly for the awe-inspiring presence of a holy God, separating them from the common for a sacred purpose.
* **wash (Hebrew, _kâbaç'_):** A primitive root; to trample; hence, to wash (properly, by stamping with the feet), whether literal (including the fulling process) or figurative. The instruction to "wash their clothes" refers to a physical cleansing, often done by treading on the garments. This external action served as a tangible, visible symbol of the internal purification and readiness required. It was a concrete act of obedience that demonstrated the people's recognition of the solemnity and sacredness of the divine encounter.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the LORD said unto Moses":** This opening phrase immediately establishes the divine origin and absolute authority of the command. It highlights Moses' unique and indispensable role as God's chosen mediator, through whom the divine will and instructions are communicated directly to the Israelite people.
* **"Go unto the people":** This directive instructs Moses to descend from the mountain and personally convey these crucial instructions to the entire congregation of Israel. It emphasizes the communal nature of the preparation and the direct involvement of every individual in the covenant relationship.
* **"and sanctify them to day and to morrow":** This specifies a two-day period for the process of sanctification, indicating that this was not a casual or instantaneous act but required deliberate, sustained effort and intentional separation. The command to "sanctify" them meant setting them apart, consecrating them, and preparing them ritually and spiritually for the awesome and holy encounter with God.
* **"and let them wash their clothes":** This is the practical, visible, and tangible component of the sanctification process. The washing of clothes served as an external symbol of internal cleansing, purity, and readiness. It was a common practice in the ancient Near East for those entering sacred spaces or engaging in religious ceremonies, signifying a separation from the mundane and a preparation for the sacred.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several significant literary devices that amplify its theological weight. **Symbolism** is profoundly evident in the command to "wash their clothes," which serves as a potent visual representation of the spiritual purity and internal readiness required to approach a holy God. This physical act symbolizes the internal cleansing and setting apart of the people. The entire narrative leading up to the theophany at Sinai functions as a **Preparation Motif**, meticulously building anticipation and solemnity. The two-day period, the establishment of boundaries around the mountain in subsequent verses, and the specific instructions for purification all contribute to a sense of escalating sacredness and expectation. Furthermore, the passage exemplifies **Divine Command and Human Response**, showcasing God's sovereign initiative in issuing precise instructions through His chosen mediator, Moses, and the expectation of immediate and obedient human compliance, thereby underscoring the hierarchical nature of the covenant relationship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 19:10 powerfully articulates the foundational theological truth of God's absolute holiness and the corresponding demand for purity from those who would enter His presence. This passage establishes a recurring pattern throughout Scripture: approaching God is never casual but requires reverence, intentional preparation, and a state of consecration. It teaches that while God graciously initiates the relationship, humanity must respond with obedience and a sincere desire for purity. This preparation was not merely ritualistic; it aimed at fostering a heart attitude of awe, humility, and submission, setting the stage for Israel to become a holy nation, distinct from all others, reflecting the very character of their holy God. The themes of sanctification and the necessity of purity for divine encounter resonate throughout the entire biblical narrative, pointing forward to a greater, spiritual cleansing.

* [Leviticus 10:3](/leviticus/10-3 "Leviticus 10:3 - God's Holiness Demands Reverence")
* [Psalm 24:3-4](/psalm/24-3-4 "Psalm 24:3-4 - Who May Ascend the Hill of the Lord?")
* [1 Thessalonians 4:7](/1_thessalonians/4-7 "1 Thessalonians 4:7 - God Has Called Us to Holiness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 19:10 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today, even as the specific ritual requirements of the Old Covenant have been fulfilled in Christ. The central principle remains that approaching a holy God demands reverence, intentional preparation, and a commitment to purity. While we no longer physically wash our clothes to meet God, the spiritual reality of sanctification remains paramount. This passage calls us to examine our hearts and lives, ensuring that we approach God in prayer, worship, Bible study, and service with a sincere desire for holiness. This involves confessing sin, seeking repentance, and continually allowing the Holy Spirit to cleanse and transform us from within. Our preparation for encountering God now is primarily spiritual, focusing on cultivating a pure heart, a humble spirit, and a life set apart for His purposes. It reminds us that our daily walk should reflect our identity as a people consecrated to God, living in anticipation of His presence and glory, and striving to live lives worthy of His calling.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I "prepare" myself for encountering God in my daily life, whether in personal devotion, corporate worship, or service?**
* **How does the concept of "sanctification" in Exodus 19:10 translate into practical steps for living a holy life in the New Covenant, empowered by the Holy Spirit?**
* **What attitudes of heart and mind are essential for approaching God with the reverence and awe He deserves, recognizing His infinite holiness?**

### FAQ

**Why did God require physical washing of clothes and a two-day preparation period?**

Answer: The physical washing of clothes served as a tangible, visible symbol of an inward spiritual cleansing and readiness. In the ancient Near East, ritual purity was a common prerequisite for approaching deities or entering sacred spaces. For Israel, this act was profoundly pedagogical, teaching them the absolute holiness of God and the seriousness of their impending covenant with Him. The two-day period emphasized the intentionality and solemnity of the preparation, allowing time for the people to reflect on the gravity of the divine encounter and to truly set themselves apart. It was a concrete way to impress upon them that God is not to be approached casually, but with deep reverence and a sense of awe, as further detailed in [Exodus 19:12-13](/exodus/19-12 "Exodus 19:12-13 - Boundaries Around Sinai").

**Is this command for physical purification still relevant for Christians today?**

Answer: While the specific ritual of washing clothes is not a requirement for Christians today, the underlying principles of holiness, reverence, and preparation for encountering God remain profoundly relevant. Through Christ, believers have direct access to God's presence, not through external rituals, but through the cleansing power of His blood and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. The New Testament calls believers to a spiritual sanctification, to "cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God" ([2 Corinthians 7:1](/2_corinthians/7-1 "2 Corinthians 7:1 - Perfecting Holiness")). This means living a life set apart for God, pursuing purity of heart and conduct, and approaching Him with a spirit of worship and humility, recognizing His infinite holiness. Our external actions should flow from an internal commitment to Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 19:10, with its emphasis on preparation and purification for a holy encounter with God, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Covenant rituals, including the washing of clothes and the two-day sanctification, were shadows and types pointing to the perfect and final cleansing provided by the Lamb of God. No longer do we need to physically prepare ourselves or fear approaching a holy mountain, for Christ Himself is our sanctification and our direct access to the Father. Through His shed blood, Jesus has consecrated a new and living way for us to draw near to God with a true heart in full assurance of faith, our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Full Assurance Through Christ")). He is the one who "sanctifies" His people, making them holy and blameless before God, presenting the church to Himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ Cleanses and Sanctifies the Church")). The preparation that was once external and temporary has become internal and permanent through Christ, who "became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption" ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification, and Redemption")). Our "washing" is now the spiritual regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit, granting us the glorious privilege of constant, unhindered communion with our holy God ([Titus 3:5](/titus/3-5 "Titus 3:5 - Washing of Regeneration and Renewal")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 10:22

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

Leviticus 11:44

For I [am] the LORD your God: ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I [am] holy: neither shall ye defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

Leviticus 11:45

For I [am] the LORD that bringeth you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: ye shall therefore be holy, for I [am] holy.

Genesis 35:2

Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that [were] with him, Put away the strange gods that [are] among you, and be clean, and change your garments:

Leviticus 11:25

And whosoever beareth [ought] of the carcase of them shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even.

Numbers 8:21

And the Levites were purified, and they washed their clothes; and Aaron offered them [as] an offering before the LORD; and Aaron made an atonement for them to cleanse them.

1 Corinthians 6:11

And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.