Exodus 12:12 meaning
The proclamation of judgment against Egypt marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of Exodus. Here, God declares His intention to execute the most severe of plagues, targeting the very heart of Egyptian society—its firstborn sons. This act is not only about punishment; it serves as a powerful statement against the false beliefs and deities of the Egyptians. The blood of the lamb, sprinkled on the doorposts of the Israelites, acts as a protective sign, ensuring that they will be spared from the impending judgment. This foreshadows the theme of redemption through sacrifice, which resonates throughout the biblical narrative.
In this context, God's command highlights His sovereignty over life and death, illustrating that both the Israelites and Egyptians are subject to His authority. The significance of this moment is profound; it establishes the Passover as a foundational event in Israel's history, encapsulating themes of obedience, faith, and divine protection. As recorded, "For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and will strike down all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt, I will execute judgments— I am the LORD" (Exodus 12:12). This event has lasting theological implications, marking the beginning of a covenant relationship between God and His people, whose deliverance becomes a central theme of Scripture.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Exodus 12:1-20 meaning. In preparation for the coming of the last plague, the LORD gave explicit instructions to Moses and Aaron about how to commemorate their deliverance by their LORD. It consisted of celebrating the Passover of the LORD when He would "pass over" the houses having the blood of a sacrificed animal on the door frame and not inflict the death of the firstborn on the household. They were to eat the Passover meal as a family. Along with this, they were instructed to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread after removing all leaven from their homes. They were to eat the unleavened bread for seven days, beginning and ending with a communal feast. The Passover and Unleavened feasts were to be celebrated every year from then on. It was to be a way for the people to be reminded of the LORD’s deliverance. The Feast of Unleavened Bread continues in the Church in the form of the LORD’s Supper, in which New Testament Christians are to remember that He delivered us from the power of sin and death.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Exodus 12:1-20 meaning. In preparation for the coming of the last plague, the LORD gave explicit instructions to Moses and Aaron about how to commemorate their deliverance by their LORD. It consisted of celebrating the Passover of the LORD when He would "pass over" the houses having the blood of a sacrificed animal on the door frame and not inflict the death of the firstborn on the household. They were to eat the Passover meal as a family. Along with this, they were instructed to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread after removing all leaven from their homes. They were to eat the unleavened bread for seven days, beginning and ending with a communal feast. The Passover and Unleavened feasts were to be celebrated every year from then on. It was to be a way for the people to be reminded of the LORD's deliverance. The Feast of Unleavened Bread continues in the Church in the form of the LORD's Supper, in which New Testament Christians are to remember that He delivered us from the power of sin and death.
- Exodus 12:21-28 meaning. Verses 21 – 28 record what Moses did after receiving the description of what the LORD was about to do.
- Exodus 12:29-36 meaning. Verses 29-36 relate the coming of the tenth plague and its immediate aftermath. The time for judgment (on Egypt) and deliverance (for Israel) had come. The LORD Himself went through the land of Egypt at midnight and killed all of the firstborn, even Pharaoh's. Pharaoh woke up, saw what had happened, and called Moses and Aaron and told them to leave Egypt with all their families and flocks. He also asked Moses for a final blessing.
Set to dark modeSet to dark modeAsk The Bible Says