Exodus 12:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 12:31
31 And he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, Rise up, and get you forth from among my people, both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve the LORD, as ye have said.
Chapter Context
Exodus 12 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, holiness, worship. 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 12:31
31 And he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, Rise up, and get you forth from among my people, both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve the LORD, as ye have said.
Analysis
Pharaoh's night summons to Moses and Aaron shows desperation—the proud ruler who repeatedly refused now capitulates. His words 'Rise up, and get you forth from among my people' grant exactly what Moses repeatedly requested. Including 'both ye and the children of Israel' acknowledges the whole nation. The permission to 'serve the LORD' and take their flocks represents complete surrender of Egypt's prior demands.
Historical Context
This capitulation reverses Pharaoh's earlier refusals (Exodus 5:2, 10:28-29). What diplomacy and plagues 1-9 couldn't accomplish, the tenth plague achieved in one night.
Reflection
- How does Pharaoh's sudden surrender illustrate that God's timing, though sometimes delayed, is always perfect?
- What hardened resistance in your life has finally broken under the weight of God's persistent working?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 6:1, 8:8, 10:9
- Parallel theme: Psalms 105:38