Exodus 19:10Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Moses was revealing to the Israelites a profound mystery, while the power of God, through extraordinary miracles, was quietly guiding both the people and their leader. This mystery found its fulfillment in this manner. The people were forewarned to avoid all forms of impurity, both physical and spiritual, and to purify themselves through specific rites of cleansing.

In ancient times, during the performance of sacred services or ceremonies, it was customary for sons to be designated, and sacrifices were often delayed by several days. The people would undergo purification for two or three days to ensure they approached the sacrificial act in a state of holiness, as instructed in the Old Testament, "Let them wash their clothes." If such diligence is found in the shadow, how much more in the reality? Consider, O priest and Levite, the significance of 'washing your garments,' so your body may be unblemished for the sacred duty of administering the sacrament. If the Jewish people were required to cleanse their garments before offering their sacrifices, how can you presume to pray for and serve others while your mind and body remain unclean?

Why were the Israelites instructed to not only purify themselves but also to launder their garments upon receiving the law? Through physical acts, God elevates them to a higher spiritual understanding, instilling a sense of reverence and awe. From this, the Israelites concluded that it was all the more essential for the mind to be purified.

The phrase "I will cleanse myself in the day, and in the morning: and let the garments be blotted out. And let them be ready on the third day" conveys a profound meaning. According to the Scripture, these words illuminate the understanding of the two Covenants. Those who have attained a life of purity and genuine faith are being directed toward the three-day resurrection of the Lord, often referred to as the Kingdom of Heaven. The term "today" reflects the condition under the law, while "morning" symbolizes the truth of the Gospel, as revealed both in the law and through its fulfillment.

The gracious communion from God is always available to humanity; however, individuals may not consistently respond to this invitation, needing varying degrees of preparation based on their current state and readiness. "Cleanse me this day and this morning: and let the garments be blotted out: and let them be ready on the third day" (Ex. 19:10-11). Through this directive, God was clearly equipping the Israelites for the monumental revelation that would take place on Mount Sinai.

A month and a half after the Israelites had departed from Egypt, they arrived at the wilderness of Sinai and set up camp near the mountain where the Lord intended to establish His covenant with them and provide them with the law. Moses ascended Mount Sinai, where he received a divine mandate meant to remind the Israelites of the Lord's mighty acts during their exodus from Egypt and His continual guidance in their present circumstances. God instructed Moses to convey that if they listened to His voice and remained faithful to their covenant, they would become His treasured possession among all nations, a kingdom of priests, and a holy people.

To be adequately prepared to stand before the Lord, it is insufficient for those who are ‘living in the flesh’ to merely attain moral readiness; their garments must be purified, and their bodies must be cleansed. This practice was a common tradition among the ancient peoples, particularly noted among the Egyptians, whose priests were characterized by a strict adherence to cleanliness. Travelers have noted that in the wilderness of Sinai, there is an abundance of water. The Scriptures mention in Deuteronomy (9:21) that a stream flowed down from the mountain. It is also important to highlight, as noted by Cook, that the manifestation of the Lord on the third day carries profound significance.