So the people stood at a distance, while Moses approached the thick darkness where God was.
In context
19They said to Moses, “You speak to us, and we will listen. But do not let God speak to us, or we will die.” 20Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. God has come only to test you, and so that the fear of him will remain before you, to keep you from sinning.” 21So the people stood at a distance, while Moses approached the thick darkness where God was. 22Yahweh said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites this: You have seen for yourselves that I have spoken to you from heaven. 23Do not make gods of silver alongside me, and do not make for yourselves gods of gold.
