Definition: This month [shall be] unto you the beginning of months: it [shall be] the first month of the year to you.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 12:2. It’s a really important and somewhat mysterious verse in the Bible. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse tells us that the Israelites (the people God had given to Moses) were released from slavery in Egypt. It’s saying that the first month of the year is now when they are free. Let’s unpack it further: “This month [shall be] unto you…” : This isn't a command – it’s a statement of fact. The Israelites were released this month. “…the beginning of months…” : This is key. It means that the first month of the year has officially started. Why is this significant? It marks the end of slavery: Before this verse, the Israelites had been enslaved in Egypt for 130 years. This verse signifies the end of that period and the beginning of their freedom. It’s a symbolic event: The Bible often uses symbolism to tell stories. This verse is a powerful symbol of liberation and God’s covenant with His people. In short, it's saying that after 130 years of slavery, the Israelites are now free! Important Note: The exact details surrounding this passage are debated by theologians. Some believe it was an actual event, while others see it as a symbolic representation of God’s deliverance. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Talk about the significance of this verse in a specific context (like the story of the Exodus)?

Definition: Ye shall eat nothing leavened; in all your habitations shall ye eat unleavened bread.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 12:20. It's a really important and significant instruction given to the Israelites after they left Egypt. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: God wants the Israelites to focus on a simple, straightforward diet during their time in the wilderness after leaving Egypt. They are told to eat only unleavened bread – no yeast or anything that makes it rise. Let's unpack it further: “Ye shall eat nothing leavened” : This means they absolutely must avoid any bread that has been touched by yeast. Yeast is a living thing that causes bread to rise, and God wants to ensure the Israelites don’t accidentally consume something that could make them sick or uncomfortable. It's about purity and avoiding contamination. “In all your habitations shall ye eat unleavened bread” : This is the key part! It means they must always eat only unleavened bread when they’re living in their homes – their houses, their camps, wherever they are. It's a strict rule about where they live. Why was this instruction given? The Bible says that after leaving Egypt, the Israelites were vulnerable to illness and sickness. By eating only unleavened bread, God hoped to protect them from these dangers. It’s seen as a way for God to keep them safe and healthy during their journey. In short, this verse is about maintaining purity and protecting the people of Israel by limiting their diet. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the significance of this verse in a specific context (like the Israelites’ experience)?

Definition: Then Moses called for all the elders of Israel, and said unto them, Draw out and take you a lamb according to your families, and kill the passover.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 12:21. It’s a really important part of the story of how God saved the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse tells us that after the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt for 430 years, God decided to show them mercy and freedom. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening: “Then Moses called for all the elders of Israel…” – This means Moses asked everyone from all the tribes of Israel to come together. “…and said unto them, Draw out and take you a lamb according to your families…” - Moses told the leaders to bring a sacrificial lamb. A lamb was chosen because it was innocent and could be offered as a sign of God’s forgiveness. “and kill the passover.” – This is the key part! Moses commanded them to kill this lamb. The Passover was a special festival where they were told that God would free them from slavery. The lamb represented the blood of the sacrifice, and by killing it, they were symbolically releasing themselves from their bondage. In short, it’s a reminder that God is merciful and willing to forgive us when we sin. It's a significant event in Jewish history and a foundational part of their religious tradition. Do you want me to explain anything else about this verse? For example, I can: Discuss the significance of the Passover itself. Explain why this event was so important for the Israelites. Give you some historical context surrounding the story.

Definition: And ye shall take a bunch of hyssop, and dip [it] in the blood that [is] in the bason, and strike the lintel and the two side posts with the blood that [is] in the bason; and none of you shall go out at the door of his house until the morning.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 12:22. It's a really important and symbolic passage about God’s judgment on Egypt. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Egypt is Suffering: In the past, Egypt was living in a terrible state of chaos and oppression. They were constantly plagued by plagues and disasters. God Wants to Free Them: God decided that He wanted to free the Israelites (the Jewish people) from this suffering. A Special Ritual – The Blood Offering: To show His power and to stop the bad things happening, God instructed them to perform a specific ritual: they would dip a bunch of hyssop (a type of herb) in blood and throw it into a basin. This was a sacrifice – a tangible offering of remorse and repentance. What’s Happening in the Verse: “And ye shall take a bunch of hyssop…” : They are gathering this specific herb. “…and dip [it] in the blood that [is] in the bason…” : This is crucial! They're literally dipping the hyssop in the blood. The “bason” is a large, sturdy beam or post that forms part of the door of Pharaoh’s palace. It’s like a physical representation of the doorway. “…and strike the lintel and the two side posts with the blood that [is] in the bason…” : They are throwing the blood onto the lintel (the horizontal beam above the doorway) and the two side posts. This is the core of the ritual – it’s a symbolic act of atonement and making amends for their past wrongdoings. “And none of you shall go out at the door of his house until the morning.” : This is the final, crucial part. They are not allowed to leave the palace until the sun rises – it’s a promise that the punishment will be lifted and they can finally enter freely. What It Means (The Big Picture): This verse speaks of God's judgment on Egypt's sins. It’s about: Repentance: God is showing that He desires forgiveness and doesn't want to continue the suffering. Remorse: By offering a sacrifice – this blood – it demonstrates that they understand the consequences of their actions. A Promise of Freedom: The verse guarantees that God will eventually allow them to leave and live in freedom. In short, it’s a powerful image of God's justice being served through a symbolic act of atonement. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Give you some background on the significance of hyssop? Compare it to another story or concept?

Definition: For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when he seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite [you].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 12:23. It’s a really important passage about God’s relationship with the Israelites (the people of Israel) who were enslaved in Egypt. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is going to send a powerful storm and a judgment to punish the Egyptians for mistreating the Israelites. He’s planning to intervene directly to protect his chosen people. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians…” – This means God is going to travel through Egypt. He's deliberately choosing to show up and be present in that land. Think of it like a military invasion, but with a divine purpose. “…and when he seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts…” – This is where it gets a little more detailed. “Blood” refers to the blood shed by the Israelites as they were being beaten and abused by the Egyptians. “Lintel” and “side posts” are specific places on the doors of their houses. Seeing the blood means God is noticing the injustice and suffering he’s causing. “…the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite [you].” – This is the crucial part. God is stopping the destruction of the Israelites. He’s saying, “I'm going to protect you from harm, even if I have to intervene directly.” He’s essentially saying, “Don’t worry about being destroyed. I will shield your homes and families.” The word “smite” means to punish or strike down. But God is choosing not to do that – he’s showing mercy and protecting his people. In short: This verse describes a dramatic event where God decides to intervene in Egypt to protect the Israelites, and specifically to stop them from being harmed by the Egyptians. It's a powerful example of divine judgment and protection. Important Context (Briefly): This story is part of the larger narrative of the Exodus – the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It’s a key moment in their history, showing God’s power and faithfulness to his covenant with them. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this story might teach us about forgiveness or justice? Give you some historical context (like when it happened)?

Definition: And ye shall observe this thing for an ordinance to thee and to thy sons for ever.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 12:24. It's a really important part of the story of how God saved the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is telling Israel (the Israelites) to always keep a specific rule or law – a “law” – for their entire lives. Let's unpack that a little further: “And ye shall observe this thing…” : This is like saying "This is a rule we need to follow." It’s not just a one-time thing; it’s something that will be important and repeated throughout their lives. “…for an ordinance…” : An “ordinance” is a specific set of rules or laws established by God for his people. Think of it like a custom or guideline. "...to thee and to thy sons for ever.” : This is the key part! It means this law will be a permanent part of their lives, continuing through generations. It’s a promise that God will always keep this rule for them. The context in Exodus 12:24 tells us: After Egypt enslaved the Israelites, God intervened and saved them from being whipped and forced into servitude. He gave them a special covenant (a binding agreement) with him, and this verse is part of that promise to continue that relationship and follow God’s laws. In short, it's a reminder that God’s love and faithfulness are eternal – they’re not just for a specific time, but will be a constant part of their lives. Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Exodus 12? Discuss the significance of this law in the Old Testament?

Definition: And it shall come to pass, when ye be come to the land which the LORD will give you, according as he hath promised, that ye shall keep this service.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 12:25. It’s a really important passage about God's relationship with the Israelites and their new home. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: “And it shall come to pass, when ye be become to the land which the LORD will give you, according as he hath promised, that ye shall keep this service.” Let’s unpack each part: "And it shall come to pass…" : This is a way of saying "it will happen." It's a general statement about what will occur. “when ye be become to the land which the LORD will give you…” : This means “when you finally arrive in this new land.” The “you” refers to the Israelites – the people God has chosen and given this land to. It's a big deal, because it’s their land now! “…according as he hath promised” : This is the key part. "He hath promised" means “God has told us.” It’s about something that God has already said will happen. Think of it like a promise or a plan. “that ye shall keep this service” : This is what we need to focus on. "Service" in this context refers to obedience . It means following God's rules and directions, even when things are difficult. So, the whole verse basically says: Once you finally settle into this new land, it’s important to live a life that honors God by obeying his commands and being faithful to him. What does this mean practically? It means to be respectful of God's law, to follow his instructions, and to be trustworthy in your dealings with others. It emphasizes a commitment to living a righteous life within the land God has given you. In short: This verse is a call to faithfulness and obedience – to live a life that honors God and follows his will. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give you some examples of what this might look like for the Israelites?

Definition: And it shall come to pass, when your children shall say unto you, What mean ye by this service?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical passage. It’s a really important and slightly surprising one from the Book of Exodus! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about a covenant (a promise) made between God and the Israelites. It’s saying that after the Israelites had been wandering around for 40 years in the wilderness, God decided to formally establish a relationship with them. Let's unpack it further: “It shall come to pass…” : This is a regular phrase meaning “it will happen” or “this will occur.” It’s like saying "This will be the case." “…when your children shall say unto you…” : This is the key part. It refers to the Israelites – specifically, their sons and grandchildren. The word "children" means their descendants . “What mean ye by this service?” : This is the question itself. “Ye” is a plural pronoun (like "you all") used to refer to the children of Israel. “Mean” means "understand" or “interpret." So, they are asking you – the Israelites – what meaning you're giving to this specific act of service. So, what’s the big deal? This verse is a bit unsettling because it suggests that the Israelites were being asked to explain a ritualistic act – a sacrifice – to God. It implies they weren't fully understanding why it was happening. Why is this important? It highlights a few things: Divine Guidance: God’s guidance isn't always immediately clear. He sometimes needs time to teach and guide people. Understanding the Purpose: The verse reminds us that there's a deeper reason behind rituals – they’re meant to connect with God and maintain a relationship. In short, it's a reminder that God is patient and will continue to communicate with his people through these rituals. --- Do you want me to explain any of this in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Discuss the context of the story before this verse? Explain the significance of the sacrifice itself?

Definition: That ye shall say, It [is] the sacrifice of the LORD’S passover, who passed over the houses of the children of Israel in Egypt, when he smote the Egyptians, and delivered our houses. And the people bowed the head and worshipped.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 12:27. It’s a really important story about God’s protection! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse tells us that God saved the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “That ye shall say…” : This is a command – a rule for the people to follow. It’s like saying “Remember this important truth.” “…It [is] the sacrifice of the LORD’S passover…” : This refers to a special meal that God used to save the Israelites. The word "passover" is key - it's a Jewish holiday involving a lamb, and it’s seen as a reminder of God’s deliverance. “…who passed over the houses of the children of Israel in Egypt…” : This is the core of the story. The Israelites were enslaved in Egypt – they were treated very badly and had no freedom. God, through this sacrifice, passed over (meaning he covered or protected) their homes. “…when he smote the Egyptians…” : God was actively fighting against the Pharaohs who ruled Egypt, forcing them to enslave the Israelites. “…and delivered our houses.” : This is a very powerful phrase. It means that God saved the Israelites from being enslaved and suffering in Egypt. What happened next? The people of Israel were frightened and bowed their heads (meaning they lowered their gaze). They then started to worship God, showing gratitude for his protection. It was a turning point – they realized they weren’t alone and that God cared about them. So, in short, this verse is a story of God's power to protect his people from oppression, and it emphasizes the importance of worshiping him. Does that make sense? Would you like me to explain any part of it further or perhaps discuss its significance within Jewish tradition?

Definition: And the children of Israel went away, and did as the LORD had commanded Moses and Aaron, so did they.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 12:28. It’s a really important passage in the Bible about God’s actions after the Israelites wandered off into the wilderness for forty years. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is telling Moses and Aaron to do something specific. “And the children of Israel went away…” : This refers to a group of Israelites who disobeyed God’s instructions and left the camp. It was a big mistake! “…and did as the LORD had commanded Moses and Aaron…” : This is key. God gave Moses and Aaron specific instructions – they were to lead the Israelites back to the camp. “so did they” : This means that Moses and Aaron carried out those instructions, leading them back to their home in the wilderness. What’s the big takeaway? It highlights God's control over his people and His ability to bring them back from a mistake. In a nutshell: God is reminding us that He is in charge of our lives and will always bring us back to Him when we stray from His path. It’s a powerful reminder of trust in God! --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or would you like me to give you another Bible verse? For example, I could: Explain the context of the story. Discuss its significance in the larger narrative of Israel’s history.