Exodus 12:4 meaning
In the narrative leading up to the Exodus, God commands the Israelites to prepare a sacrificial lamb as a pivotal moment of deliverance from slavery in Egypt. This command comes in the context of the impending final plague, which would result in the death of all firstborns in Egypt. The selection of a lamb was not just a ritual; it signified obedience and trust in God's promise of protection. Households were instructed to slay the lamb and apply its blood to the doorposts, marking them as God's people. This act of faith would thwart the destructive judgment bestowed upon Egypt.
The directive emphasizes that if any household was too small to consume an entire lamb, they could share with a neighbor, showcasing a sense of community and cooperation during this momentous occasion. This preparation marks the beginning of the Passover—a festival of remembrance and celebration for generations to come. The significance of this event resonates strongly, as it not only symbolizes physical salvation but also foreshadows spiritual redemption fulfilled in Christ. This is encapsulated beautifully in the words of the scripture: *"Your lamb shall be an unblemished male a year old; you may take it from the sheep or from the goats."* Exodus 12:5.
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:
- Zechariah 12:10-14 meaning. All of the Jewish people, its rulers and priests and commoners, will mourn for God, whom they pierced. They will mourn so profoundly as though they had lost their firstborn son. Because of this mourning, God will pour His favor on all of Israel. This is a clear allusion to the future event of Israel one day recognizing Jesus as their Messiah and repenting for rejecting Him. It seems that in doing so, then Jesus will return and deliver Israel, and rule as her King and God.
- Genesis 17:1-2 meaning. When Abram was 99 years old, God established a covenant with him to bless him greatly if he walked blameless. God expanded His covenant to add this mutual condition, where Abram would receive blessings if he walked in righteousness.
- Joel 1:15-20 meaning. The prophet uses the recent locust/army invasion to predict the day of the LORD, a time in which God will intervene in the world to judge His adversaries.
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