What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 5:26?

For who of all flesh

- Moses reminds the people that every human being (“all flesh”) shares the same frailty before a holy God (Genesis 6:17; Psalm 145:21).

- Humanity’s limits highlight the wonder that God would reveal Himself so directly to any of us.

- The phrase underscores that the experience at Sinai was not commonplace; it was a unique mercy granted to mortal people.

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has heard the voice of the living God

- Scripture contrasts the “living God” with lifeless idols (Jeremiah 10:10; 1 Thessalonians 1:9).

- Hearing His audible voice was a vivid proof that Israel’s God is personal and active (Exodus 19:19; Psalm 29:3-4).

- This voice carried absolute authority, calling the nation into covenant relationship.

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speaking out of the fire

- Fire at Sinai signified God’s purity and power (Exodus 19:18; Deuteronomy 4:33-36).

- Earlier, the burning bush revealed the same holy presence (Exodus 3:2-6).

- Fire both attracts and warns: it draws near yet burns away impurity (Hebrews 12:29).

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as we have

- The whole assembly experienced the event together (Deuteronomy 4:10; 29:10-13).

- Their shared witness established collective accountability; no one could claim ignorance of God’s words (2 Peter 1:16; 1 John 1:1-3).

- This communal memory was to be passed down so future generations would know the reality of God’s revelation.

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and survived?

- Scripture states, “You cannot see My face, for no one can see Me and live” (Exodus 33:20). Survival was nothing short of grace.

- Others feared death after encountering God’s holiness (Judges 13:22; Isaiah 6:5), yet Israel lived—evidence of divine mercy.

- The moment hints ahead to Christ, whose mediation makes it possible for sinners to approach God and live (Hebrews 12:24; 1 Timothy 2:5).

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summary

Deuteronomy 5:26 marvels at the unparalleled privilege God granted Israel: frail humans heard the living God’s voice blazing from fire and lived to tell about it. The verse magnifies God’s holiness, the authenticity of His revelation, and His gracious desire to draw people into covenant fellowship while preserving their lives.