Exodus 12:36
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 12:36
36 And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they lent unto them such things as they required. And they spoiled the Egyptians.
Chapter Context
Exodus 12 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, obedience, love. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 12:36
36 And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they lent unto them such things as they required. And they spoiled the Egyptians.
Analysis
The LORD giving Israel 'favour in the sight of the Egyptians' fulfills His promise (Exodus 3:21, 11:3). The verb 'lent' (sha'al, שָׁאַל) means 'gave' or 'granted'—Egyptians gave freely, knowing Israel would not return. The phrase 'they spoiled the Egyptians' (vayinatzlu, וַיְנַצְּלוּ—plundered/stripped) uses covenant-lawsuit language: Israel received legal compensation for injustice. Egypt's wealth transfers to God's people.
Historical Context
This transfer of wealth fulfilled God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would 'come out with great substance' (Genesis 15:14). The gold and silver later became tabernacle materials.
Reflection
- How does God's justice in compensating Israel teach that He sees and rectifies all wrongs, even if delayed?
- What does Egypt's wealth becoming Israel's possession illustrate about God's sovereignty over material resources?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 11:3, Genesis 39:21, Proverbs 16:7, Acts 2:47
- References Egypt: Acts 7:10
- Parallel theme: Genesis 15:14, Psalms 105:37, Daniel 1:9