Exodus 3:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 3:21
21 And I will give this people favour in the sight of the Egyptians: and it shall come to pass, that, when ye go, ye shall not go empty:
Chapter Context
Exodus 3 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, fellowship, 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 21-22: 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 3:21
21 And I will give this people favour in the sight of the Egyptians: and it shall come to pass, that, when ye go, ye shall not go empty:
Analysis
And I will give this people favour in the sight of the Egyptians: and it shall come to pass, that, when ye go, ye shall not go empty (וְנָתַתִּי אֶת־חֵן הָעָם־הַזֶּה בְּעֵינֵי מִצְרָיִם וְהָיָה כִּי תֵלֵכוּן לֹא תֵלְכוּ רֵיקָם)—God promises favour (חֵן, chen, "grace/favor") in Egyptians' eyes. Ye shall not go empty (לֹא תֵלְכוּ רֵיקָם)—Israel will receive compensation for their labor. This anticipates 11:2-3 and 12:35-36 when Egyptians give Israel gold, silver, and clothing. This isn't theft but just recompense—wages for 400 years of slavery (cf. Deuteronomy 15:13-14 which requires sending freed slaves away with provision). God ensures His people leave enriched, not impoverished, and these spoils later fund the tabernacle (25:1-7, 35:4-9).
Historical Context
The 'plundering of Egypt' fulfilled Genesis 15:14 ('afterward shall they come out with great substance'). Archaeological evidence shows that slaves rarely possessed wealth; Israel's enrichment reversed their economic devastation. The gold and silver later used for tabernacle construction (Exodus 25-31, 35-40) came from these Egyptian gifts, showing God's providence—even pagan wealth serves His purposes when redirected to worship.
Reflection
- How does God's provision of Egyptian wealth to Israel illustrate that He compensates His servants for faithful endurance through suffering?
- What does the subsequent use of Egyptian gold for the tabernacle teach about redeeming secular resources for sacred purposes?
Cross-References
- References Egypt: Exodus 11:3, 12:36, Acts 7:10
- Parallel theme: Genesis 39:21, Nehemiah 1:11, Psalms 105:37, 106:46, Proverbs 16:7