Exodus 13:12

Authorized King James Version

That thou shalt set apart unto the LORD all that openeth the matrix, and every firstling that cometh of a beast which thou hast; the males shall be the LORD'S.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהַֽעֲבַרְתָּ֥
That thou shalt set apart
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#2
כָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#3
פֶּ֣טֶר׀
all that openeth
a fissure, i.e., (concretely) firstling (as opening the matrix)
#4
רֶ֖חֶם
the matrix
the womb
#5
לַֽיהוָֽה׃
shall be the LORD'S
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#6
וְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
פֶּ֣טֶר׀
all that openeth
a fissure, i.e., (concretely) firstling (as opening the matrix)
#8
שֶׁ֣גֶר
that cometh
the ftus (as finally expelled)
#9
בְּהֵמָ֗ה
of a beast
properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)
#10
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#11
יִֽהְיֶ֥ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#12
לְךָ֛
H0
#13
הַזְּכָרִ֖ים
which thou hast the males
properly, remembered, i.e., a male (of man or animals, as being the most noteworthy sex)
#14
לַֽיהוָֽה׃
shall be the LORD'S
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Exodus Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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