Definition: And mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire: and the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount quaked greatly.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 19:18. It’s a really interesting and dramatic part of the story of God giving the Law to Moses on Mount Sinai! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is sending down a powerful presence – a fire – onto the mountain. Let’s unpack that a little more: “And mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke…” This describes how the divine presence of God is incredibly intense. It's not just a gentle feeling; it’s like a huge, swirling cloud or haze surrounding the mountain. Think of it as a concentrated burst of light and heat. “…because the LORD descended upon it in fire…” This is the key part! The Lord (God) isn't just near the mountain; He is descending onto it. The word "fire" here isn’t literal flames, but a powerful, intense light and heat. It signifies God's presence and power. “And the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace…” The smoke isn’t just ordinary smoke; it's thick and billowing like a furnace burning intensely. It suggests that the divine presence is incredibly powerful and intense. “…and the whole mount quaked greatly.” This shows how significant this event is. The ground beneath the mountain shook violently, signifying a massive shift in power and a huge display of God’s might. What does it all mean? This story is a symbol of God's covenant with his people – a promise to be with them and protect them. It shows that God is powerful, present, and willing to reveal Himself to His chosen people. It was a dramatic moment of revelation and confirmation of God’s plan for humanity. In short, it tells us that God is making a significant and powerful presence on the mountain, signifying a profound and transformative event. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this story in a broader context (like the creation story)? Give you some historical background about what was happening at Mount Sinai?