Definition: And it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that the LORD slew all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast: therefore I sacrifice to the LORD all that openeth the matrix, being males; but all the firstborn of my children I redeem.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 13:15. It's a really significant and somewhat surprising verse in the Bible! Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a dramatic event where God intervened to protect His people from a terrible threat – the Egyptian army. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go…” - This sets the scene. It's about a time when Egypt was facing a serious crisis – they were desperate for slaves and wanted to control the Israelites. “…that the LORD slew all the firstborn in the land of Egypt…” - This is the core of the verse. God, using His power, killed every firstborn child – meaning children born with a special marking (the firstborn) – in Egypt. This was a huge deal for the Egyptians because it meant they had a valuable workforce. “both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast…” - This is where it gets interesting. God wasn’t just killing babies; He was killing all the firstborn – both human children and animals (like livestock). “…therefore I sacrifice to the LORD all that openeth the matrix…” - This is a clever, symbolic phrase. “The matrix” refers to the entire system of things – the laws, customs, and rules that govern society. It’s like a blueprint of human life. God is saying, "I want to protect this system, this whole framework of life.” “being males; but all the firstborn of my children I redeem.” - This is the key part. God is making a special sacrifice – he's reclaiming or redeming the firstborn sons. It’s not just about killing them; it’s about restoring them to their rightful place, meaning they are valued and protected again. In simpler terms: God is demonstrating that He values His people more than Egypt. He uses a drastic measure – killing all the firstborn – but then chooses to protect those sons through a special act of sacrifice and restoration. What’s the significance? This verse is often interpreted as a symbol of God's protection of Israel, demonstrating His power and sovereignty over nations. It also speaks to the idea that God values certain people more than others – particularly those who are connected to Him and represent his divine plan. Important Note: This passage is part of a larger story about liberation and God’s plan to free his people from oppression. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Talk about the context of this event in the Old Testament? Explore what this verse might mean today in terms of faith and values?