Exodus 11:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 11:2
2 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.
Chapter Context
Exodus 11 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, discipleship, wisdom. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-10: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 11:2
2 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.
Analysis
God commands Israel to 'borrow' (שָׁאַל, sha'al—ask for, request) jewels of silver and gold from their neighbors. This fulfills the promise that Israel would not leave empty-handed (3:21-22). The verb suggests requesting gifts, not deceit—Egyptians will willingly give to expedite Israel's departure.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern custom involved giving departing guests gifts. Egypt's willingness to give treasures indicates their terror and desire for Israel to leave immediately. This also represents back wages for generations of unpaid labor.
Reflection
- How does God ensure justice for past exploitation?
- What does this 'plundering of Egypt' foreshadow about kingdom economics?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 3:22, Psalms 24:1, 105:37, Proverbs 13:22, Haggai 2:8, Matthew 20:15