Two Mountains

Our passage contrasts two mountains, Sinai and Zion, which symbolize the Old and the New Covenants. The first mountain is terrifying, like a scene out of “The Lord of the Rings”, or the “Night on Bald Mountain” animation in “Fantasia”. The second mountain, Zion, is a place of celebration and safety. Where are you dwelling?

Our author uses this powerful illustration to review many of the great themes of the book of Hebrews. That which is heavenly and invisible surpasses that which is earthly and visible. The New Covenant enables us to draw near to God in a way which was impossible under the Old.

The original readers had come to Zion, but were living as if they were in the shadow of Sinai. Many struggling believers act as if they are lost, having forgotten where they have come.