Paul contrasts the fading glory of the old covenant with the superiority and freedom of the new covenant. He contrasts the veil of Moses with the clarity of present revelation. During the time of Moses there was a less clear picture of what is now revealed.
This refers to the Old Testament law that God gave through Moses. Alternate translation: "the ministry that causes people to die because it is based on the law" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
"carved in letters on stone." This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that God carved in letters on stone" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])