Exodus 11:2

Authorized King James Version

Speak now in the ears of the people, and let every man borrow of his neighbour, and every woman of her neighbour, jewels of silver, and jewels of gold.

Word-by-Word Analysis

דַּבֶּר

H1696

Speak

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

נָ֖א

H4994

'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction

בְּאָזְנֵ֣י

H241

now in the ears

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

הָעָ֑ם

H5971

of the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

וְיִשְׁאֲל֞וּ

H7592

borrow

to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand

אִ֣ישׁ׀

H376

and let every man

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

מֵאֵ֣ת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

רֵעֵ֗הוּ

H7453

of his neighbour

an associate (more or less close)

וְאִשָּׁה֙

H802

and every woman

a woman

#10

מֵאֵ֣ת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#11

רְעוּתָ֔הּ

H7468

of her neighbour

a female associate; generally an additional one

#12

וּכְלֵ֥י

H3627

and jewels

something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)

#13

כֶ֖סֶף

H3701

of silver

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

#14

וּכְלֵ֥י

H3627

and jewels

something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)

#15

זָהָֽב׃

H2091

of gold

gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Exodus.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

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