Exodus 13:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 13:2
2 Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoever openeth the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and of beast: it is mine.
Chapter Context
Exodus 13 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, grace, judgment. 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 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 13:2
2 Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoever openeth the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and of beast: it is mine.
Analysis
The comprehensive scope—'whatsoever openeth the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and of beast'—means every firstborn life belongs to God. The phrase 'openeth the matrix' (peter rechem, פֶּטֶר רֶחֶם) literally means 'first issue of the womb.' The declaration 'it is mine' asserts divine ownership based on redemption. This anticipates Christ as God's firstborn (Colossians 1:15), consecrated for redemptive purposes.
Historical Context
This law created an ongoing tribute to God for the exodus. Firstborn sons were either dedicated to God's service or redeemed with a price (Numbers 18:15-16).
Reflection
- How does dedicating all firstborn to God picture the truth that everything you have belongs to Him by right of redemption?
- What does God claiming both human and animal firstborn teach about His sovereignty over all creation?
Word Studies
- Sanctify: קָדַשׁ (Qadash) H6942 - To set apart, make holy
Cross-References
- References Israel: Exodus 4:22, Numbers 3:13
- Parallel theme: Exodus 23:19, Leviticus 27:26, Numbers 18:15, Deuteronomy 15:19, Luke 2:23, Hebrews 12:23