Exodus 12:15 meaning

In the context of the Passover, the Israelites were directed to remove all leaven from their homes as a critical preparatory step. This command symbolized not just a physical act, but also represented a deeper spiritual cleansing. The act of purging leaven was tied to their hastened departure from Egypt, reinforcing the urgency of their exodus. The command focused on the theme of purity, illustrating how leaven—often associated with sin—could permeate and corrupt. Consequently, removing it served as a metaphor for removing sin from one’s life.

This principle maintains relevance today, as believers are called to lead lives devoid of the corrupting influences of sin. The act of seeking out and removing hidden leaven signifies a commitment to holiness, paralleling the Christian practice of confession and repentance. As described in the scripture, anyone who failed to remove leaven was to be "cut off" from Israel, emphasizing the seriousness of adhering to God's commands. One's spiritual well-being can demonstrate the necessity of this internal cleansing, illustrating that a life marked by obedience is essential for experiencing the fullness of God’s promises. The relevant passage is found in Exodus 12:15.

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:

  • Deuteronomy 12:15-16 meaning. Moses gives guidelines concerning the slaughter of animals to be used for meals and not for sacrifices.
  • Exodus 1:15-22 meaning. The second plan was even more severe – the midwives were to kill all the male Hebrew sons when they are born. But this plan also failed because the midwives feared God more than Pharaoh.
  • Exodus 12:37-41 meaning. Verses 37 – 41 summarize the exit from Egypt. Verse 37 itself is a turning point in the book of Exodus. Instead remaining in bondage in Egypt, the Israelites are now beginning their journey to freedom out of Egypt. With them go various other enslaved ethnic peoples, along with a great many livestock. They left so quickly, they could only make unleavened bread for food. The Israelites had been in Egypt for 430 years.
Select Language
AaSelect font sizeDark ModeSet to dark mode
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalized content. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our use of cookies as described in our Privacy Policy.