The reference to God coming with awesome might and surrounded by fire establishes the awesome and terrifying character of the divine appearance. The image of God coming suggests active motion and the approach of divine presence to address the assembled people. The reference to fire surrounding God emphasizes the destructive power available to God and the danger represented by God's presence; fire symbolizes both judgment and purification. The awesome quality of divine might suggests that the assembly should approach with profound respect and fear; the encounter with God elicits terror. This verse establishes the awesome and frightening aspect of the divine manifestation that follows.

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