Exodus 12:35 - The children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they asked of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and clothing.

Generated Verse: Exodus 12:35

What does "Exodus 12:35" mean?


Exodus 12:35 describes the Israelites following Moses's instructions to ask the Egyptians for valuables before leaving Egypt. Here's a breakdown of the meaning and context:

"The children of Israel did according to the word of Moses..." This emphasizes that the Israelites were acting under Moses's direction, which was divinely inspired. They trusted and obeyed him.

"...and they asked of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and clothing." This is the core of the verse. The Israelites requested valuable items from the Egyptians. This request wasn't presented as a demand but as a request or borrowing.

Context and Interpretations:

1. Fulfillment of Prophecy: God had foretold to Abraham that his descendants would be enslaved but would leave with great possessions (Genesis 15:13-14). This verse is seen as the fulfillment of that prophecy.

2. Compensation for Labor: Many interpretations view this as a form of just compensation for the generations of forced labor the Israelites endured in Egypt. They were essentially being paid back, though imperfectly, for the immense suffering and unpaid work they had undergone.

3. God's Providence: The Egyptians were moved to give generously to the Israelites. This demonstrates God's power and influence, turning the hearts of the Egyptians towards favor.

4. Spoils of Victory: The Israelites had effectively "won" against Egypt through the ten plagues. The valuable items could be seen as spoils of a divinely ordained victory.

5. Provision for the Wilderness: The Israelites were about to embark on a long journey through the wilderness. The silver, gold, and clothing provided them with resources to sustain themselves during this time.

Important Considerations:

Ethical Implications: Some have questioned the ethics of the Israelites taking these items. However, the context of centuries of enslavement and the divine command to Moses make it a unique situation.

"Asked" vs. "Demanded": The Hebrew word translated as "asked" can also mean "requested" or "borrowed." The intention behind the request, and whether the Israelites intended to return the items, is open to interpretation.

In summary, Exodus 12:35 describes the Israelites requesting and receiving valuable items from the Egyptians as they prepared to leave Egypt. This action is understood as a fulfillment of prophecy, compensation for labor, an act of divine providence, and provision for their journey through the wilderness.

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