Exodus 12:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 12:39
39 And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they brought forth out of Egypt, for it was not leavened; because they were thrust out of Egypt, and could not tarry, neither had they prepared for themselves any victual.
Chapter Context
Exodus 12 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, grace, faith. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 12:39
39 And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they brought forth out of Egypt, for it was not leavened; because they were thrust out of Egypt, and could not tarry, neither had they prepared for themselves any victual.
Analysis
Baking 'unleavened cakes of the dough' explains the permanent memorial feast's origin. The phrase 'they were thrust out of Egypt, and could not tarry' emphasizes the urgency that prevented normal bread preparation. The statement 'neither had they prepared for themselves any victual' shows complete dependence on God. This lack of provision made the wilderness journey a sustained trust-exercise.
Historical Context
This verse explains the historical origin of the seven-day Feast of Unleavened Bread. What began as circumstantial necessity became perpetual memorial of hasty redemption.
Reflection
- How does God's call to leave without full preparation teach that obedience must sometimes precede perfect planning?
- What does Israel's lack of provisions reveal about the faith required to step into the unknown at God's command?
Cross-References
- References Egypt: Exodus 11:1
- Parallel theme: Exodus 6:1