Mount Sinai (Near East geography model)

Mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments

Mount Sinai (Near East geography model)

Mount Sinai, traditionally known as Jebel Musa, is a peak of profound religious and historical significance, primarily noted as the location where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. The Book of Mormon refers explicitly to this event and the commandments delivered to Moses on two occasions (Mosiah 12:33; Mosiah 13:5). In these passages, Mount Sinai serves as a point of reference for the observance of divine law and is associated with the radiance of divine presence, as evidenced by the shining face of Moses, mirroring the event described in the Old Testament.

Though the precise location of Mount Sinai remains the subject of scholarly debate, it is traditionally placed in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula. This region is characterized by its stark and rugged terrain, with Mount Sinai often identified as one of the peaks of Jebel Musa. This identification harmonizes with the phenomenon of ‘glory’ and ‘devouring fire’ perceived as the presence of God atop the mountain. The term Sinai itself may derive from an etymological root connoting brightness or shining, reflecting the mountain’s association with divine revelation and majesty.

The Book of Mormon’s allusion to Mount Sinai establishes a continuity with the covenantal traditions of the Israelites and underscores the enduring nature of God’s commandments. The imagery of Mount Sinai in the Book of Mormon is thus used to reinforce the message of covenant fidelity and the power of God’s word in guiding the lives of the faithful.

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