Exodus 32:3
And all the people brake off the golden earrings which were in their ears, and brought them unto Aaron.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּתְפָּֽרְקוּ֙
brake off
H6561
וַיִּתְפָּֽרְקוּ֙
brake off
Strong's:
H6561
Word #:
1 of 11
to break off or crunch; figuratively, to deliver
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
2 of 11
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
הָעָ֔ם
And all the people
H5971
הָעָ֔ם
And all the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
3 of 11
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַזָּהָ֖ב
the golden
H2091
הַזָּהָ֖ב
the golden
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
6 of 11
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
7 of 11
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
בְּאָזְנֵיהֶ֑ם
which were in their ears
H241
בְּאָזְנֵיהֶ֑ם
which were in their ears
Strong's:
H241
Word #:
8 of 11
broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)
Historical Context
This immediate, universal compliance suggests Egyptian religious practices had deeply influenced Israel during their 430-year sojourn, despite witnessing Yahweh's superiority over Egypt's gods.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'golden earrings' (cherished possessions) are you tempted to sacrifice for false security?
- How does group pressure lead you to participate in spiritual compromise?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The people's unanimous participation (כָּל־הָעָם, kol-ha'am, all the people) shows mob mentality's power. They willingly surrendered personal adornment for corporate idolatry—a perverse 'offering' contrasted with later tabernacle donations. This collective action reveals how quickly monotheism can degenerate into paganism when visible symbols replace faith in the invisible God. Their eagerness demonstrates the human heart's tendency toward tangible religion over spiritual worship.