Definition: And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye [are]: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy [you], when I smite the land of Egypt.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 12:13. It’s a really important passage about God’s protection and deliverance. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is showing compassion to the Israelites (the people he had enslaved for 40 years) by saving them from Egypt. He’s giving them a promise of safety – he will protect them, even if they are vulnerable. Let's look at each part: “And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye [are]…” This means God is giving a mark – a symbol – of protection. It’s not a big sacrifice, but it’s a visible sign that he's watching over them. It’s like a badge or a mark of recognition. “…when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy [you], when I smite the land of Egypt.” This is the key part! “I will see the blood” : This means God will observe the blood. He'll watch it carefully. “…I will pass over you…” : This is a crucial phrase. It means he’s going to protect them from harm, even if they’re in danger. “…and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy [you]” : This part is reassuring. God promises not to inflict a devastating plague on them. He wants to preserve their lives and safety. In short: God is giving them a visible sign of his protection, and if he sees the blood they shed, he will spare them from suffering. Why is this important? This verse is part of a larger story about God’s plan to free the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It highlights His faithfulness and His willingness to protect his chosen people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage within the broader context of the Exodus story? Answer any specific questions you have about it?