Sinai Symbolism: The Background of the Theological Significance of OT Religion in Hebrews

Excerpt

‎Although the phrase ‘Mount Sinai’ does not appear in Hebrews 12:18–21 it is clear that the author describes the event of theophany at Sinai in Exodus 19:16–19 and the Deuteronomic description of theophany at Horeb. Although there is a little dispute about the identification of the location of Sinai and Horeb, it is generally viewed that both Sinai and Horeb are called the mountain of Yahweh referring to the same place. Some scholars distinguish between Exodus tradition and Sinai tradition, and the Sinai complex is understood as the result of several different traditions. However, the exact geographical location of the mountain and the historical origin of the Sinai tradition1are of no interest here for the purpose of this study is to appreciate the theological symbolism of the Sinai event, and its contribution to understanding the religious significance of the OT figures and cultic institutions in Hebrews. … More

Son, Kiwoong. Zion Symbolism in Hebrews: Hebrews 12:18-24 as a Hermeneutical Key to the Epistle. Milton Keynes: Paternoster, 2005. Print.