Exodus 13:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 13:9
9 And it shall be for a sign unto thee upon thine hand, and for a memorial between thine eyes, that the LORD'S law may be in thy mouth: for with a strong hand hath the LORD brought thee out of Egypt.
Chapter Context
Exodus 13 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, grace, sacrifice. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 13:9
9 And it shall be for a sign unto thee upon thine hand, and for a memorial between thine eyes, that the LORD'S law may be in thy mouth: for with a strong hand hath the LORD brought thee out of Egypt.
Analysis
The imagery 'for a sign unto thee upon thine hand, and for a memorial between thine eyes' uses bodily placement metaphorically—constant remembrance affecting action (hand) and thought (eyes/forehead). Though later Judaism literalized this with phylacteries (tefillin), the primary meaning is comprehensive orientation of life around redemption. 'The LORD's law may be in thy mouth' means redemption shapes speech and confession.
Historical Context
Later Jewish practice bound small boxes containing Scripture verses to forehead and hand during prayer. While Jesus criticized ostentation (Matthew 23:5), the practice attempted literal obedience to this verse.
Reflection
- How can you keep redemption's truth constantly before your mind without falling into empty ritualism?
- What does having God's law 'in thy mouth' teach about confession and verbal testimony's importance?
Word Studies
- Law: תּוֹרָה (Torah) H8451 - Law, instruction
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 12:14, 13:3, 13:16
- Word: Numbers 15:39, Deuteronomy 30:14, Isaiah 59:21, Romans 10:8
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 6:8, Matthew 23:5