Exodus 12:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 12:14
14 And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the LORD throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.
Chapter Context
Exodus 12 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, obedience, discipleship. 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 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-51: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 12:14
14 And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the LORD throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.
Analysis
The command 'this day shall be unto you for a memorial' (zikaron, זִכָּרוֹן) establishes perpetual commemoration. The phrase 'feast to the LORD' indicates joyful celebration, not mournful remembrance. 'Throughout your generations' and 'by an ordinance for ever' (chukkat olam) emphasize permanence. Just as Passover annually recalled the exodus, the Lord's Supper recalls Christ's greater exodus (Luke 9:31).
Historical Context
This institution predates Israel's receiving the written law at Sinai, making Passover the foundational feast. It would be celebrated for over 3,400 years, continuing to Christ's time and beyond.
Reflection
- How does regular observance of the Lord's Supper prevent you from forgetting your redemption in Christ?
- What makes remembering God's saving acts a celebration rather than mere historical recollection?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 5:1, 12:43, Deuteronomy 16:1, 16:11, 2 Kings 23:21, Psalms 111:4
- Parallel theme: Exodus 12:17, 12:24, Matthew 26:13