modified this simple statement as they sought revelation through higher angelic mediation (Collins, FS F. M. Cross, 548). 12 “It is not in the heavens”—the commandment is not inaccessible, it does not require some specially qualified person to make it all clear. In short, the law was specifically designed for our instruction in daily living and not to be part of the mystery of God that we could not approach and that was retained “in the heavens.” There is no ground for excuse in relation to our response