When the Israelites came near Mount Sinai, God said that in three days from that time he would come down upon the mountain. But none of the people except Moses and Aaron were to touch the mountain. If they did, they would die. They could come up into the mountain and be with Him. God did as he promised. There was a thick cloud all about Him, and fire and smoke, and thunder and lightnings, so the people could not see him. And the mountain shook and the voice of God was heard like the sound of a trumpet, giving to them the Ten Commandments. And the people were afraid and drew back from the mountain.