Exodus 12:17 - You shall observe the feast of unleavened bread; for in this same day I have brought your armies out of the land of Egypt: therefore you shall observe this day throughout your generations by an ordinance forever.

Generated Verse: Exodus 12:17

What does "Exodus 12:17" mean?


Exodus 12:17 emphasizes the importance and lasting nature of the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Passover). Let's break down the meaning:

"You shall observe the feast of unleavened bread...": This is a direct command to the Israelites to celebrate the Feast of Unleavened Bread. This feast lasts for seven days, during which they are to eat only bread made without yeast (unleavened bread, often called matzah).

"...for in this same day I have brought your armies out of the land of Egypt...": This gives the reason for the commandment. The Feast of Unleavened Bread is directly linked to the Exodus from Egypt. The Israelites had to leave Egypt in haste, without time for their bread dough to rise. Eating unleavened bread commemorates this hasty departure and God's deliverance from slavery. The term "armies" (or hosts) emphasizes that this was a mass exodus, with God leading and protecting His people like an army.

"...therefore you shall observe this day throughout your generations by an ordinance forever.": This establishes the permanence of the commandment. The Feast of Unleavened Bread isn't just a one-time event; it's a perpetual ordinance, meant to be observed "throughout your generations" and "forever." This underscores its significance as a foundational event in Israelite history and a key element of their covenant with God.

In Summary:

The verse states that the Feast of Unleavened Bread is a permanent and crucial observance for the Israelites because it commemorates their liberation from slavery in Egypt. The eating of unleavened bread symbolizes the haste with which they left, emphasizing God's miraculous intervention and deliverance of His people. It is a reminder of God's faithfulness and a call to remember and celebrate their freedom from bondage in every generation.