King James Bible
"Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine:"
God establishes a conditional relationship with Israel at Sinai, requiring active obedience to His spoken commands and faithfulness to the covenant about to be given. The double emphasis ('obey my voice indeed') underscores that mere ritual compliance is insufficient—heartfelt allegiance is required. The Hebrew term 'segullah' (peculiar treasure) refers to a king's personal treasure, distinguished from general wealth. God promises Israel will become His prized possession among nations, not through inherent superiority but through their covenant relationship. This declaration grounds Israel's special status in God's universal sovereignty rather than favoritism. Though God owns everything, He chooses to enter a unique relationship with Israel, making their election both a privilege and a responsibility to represent Him to all nations.