Hebrews 12:20 net — For they could not bear what was commanded:“If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.”

NET Bible

"For they could not bear what was commanded:“If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.”"

— Hebrews 12:20, NET Bible

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Hebrews 12:20 in Other Translations

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Hebrews 12 — Context

17

For you know that later when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no opportunity for repentance, although he sought the blessing with tears.

18

For you have not come to something that can be touched, to a burning fire and darkness and gloom and a whirlwind

19

and the blast of a trumpet and a voice uttering words such that those who heard begged to hear no more.

20

For they could not bear what was commanded:“If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.”

21

In fact, the scene was so terrifying that Moses said,“I shudder with fear.”

22

But you have come to Mount Zion, the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to myriads of angels, to the assembly

23

and congregation of the firstborn, who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous, who have been made perfect,

Hebrews 12:20 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Hebrews 12:20 say?
Hebrews 12:20 in the NET Bible reads: “For they could not bear what was commanded:“If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.””
Where is Hebrews 12:20 in the Bible?
Hebrews 12:20 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Hebrews, chapter 12, verse 20.
Who wrote Hebrews?
Hebrews is traditionally attributed to Anonymous. Authorship has been debated since the earliest centuries — candidates include Paul, Apollos, Barnabas, Luke, and Priscilla. The letter itself is anonymous and the most honest answer is that we do not know. It was written c. AD 60–70.
What is the book of Hebrews about?
Hebrews is a sermon-letter showing that everything in the Old Covenant — priests, sacrifices, the tabernacle — pointed to Jesus, who is "better" in every way. It calls a tired church to draw near with confidence, hold fast their hope, and run the race set before them.
What are the major themes of Hebrews?
Hebrews explores themes including Supremacy of Christ, New Covenant, Priesthood, Faith, Perseverance. These themes shape the meaning and context of Hebrews 12:20.
What translation should I read Hebrews 12:20 in?
Hebrews 12:20 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Hebrews 12:20?
Hebrews 12:20 reads (NET): “For they could not bear what was commanded:“If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.”” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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