Exodus 12:26
And it shall come to pass, when your children shall say unto you, What mean ye by this service?
Original Language Analysis
וְהָיָ֕ה
H1961
וְהָיָ֕ה
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
1 of 9
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
2 of 9
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
בְּנֵיכֶ֑ם
And it shall come to pass when your children
H1121
בְּנֵיכֶ֑ם
And it shall come to pass when your children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
5 of 9
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
מָ֛ה
H4100
מָ֛ה
Strong's:
H4100
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
Historical Context
Jewish practice developed this into formal questions during the Passover seder. The youngest child traditionally asks the 'Four Questions,' prompting the retelling of the exodus story.
Questions for Reflection
- How do your spiritual practices create opportunities to explain the gospel to your children or others?
- What visible actions in your life would cause someone to ask, 'Why do you do this?'
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The anticipated question 'What mean ye by this service?' recognizes that rituals provoke curiosity, especially from children. The question creates a teaching moment where liturgy becomes catechesis. God designs ceremonies to be pedagogical—actions that demand explanation, ensuring the story is told. This principle underlies all Christian sacraments, which are enacted proclamations inviting inquiry.