Deuteronomy 16:6
But at the place which the LORD thy God shall choose to place his name in, there thou shalt sacrifice the passover at even, at the going down of the sun, at the season that thou camest forth out of Egypt.
Deuteronomy 16:6 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Deuteronomy specifies the location and timing for the observance of the Passover sacrifice. It instructs the Israelites to offer the Passover sacrifice at the place which the LORD their God chooses to place his name, which ultimately refers to the Tabernacle or Temple in Jerusalem. The Passover was a key religious festival in ancient Israel, commemorating the Exodus from Egypt and the sparing of the Israelites from the final plague that struck the Egyptians. By sacrificing the Passover lamb at the designated place and time, the Israelites were reaffirming their faith in God's deliverance and expressing their gratitude for His protection. The timing of the sacrifice, at sunset, symbolized the end of the day and the journey out of Egypt, emphasizing the connection between the historical event and the religious ritual. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of religious observance, obedience to God's commands, and the celebration of God's deliverance in the life of the Israelites.
Theological Overview
This verse, found in Deuteronomy 16:6, highlights the importance of the Passover sacrifice at the designated place chosen by the Lord. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the significance of obedience to God's commands in worship and sacrifice. By sacrificing the Passover at the chosen place, the Israelites were demonstrating their faith and trust in the Lord's guidance. Additionally, the mention of the season of coming out of Egypt serves as a reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness to His people. Word studies reveal that the phrase "at even" refers to a specific time of day, indicating the precise timing of the sacrifice. The phrase "at the going down of the sun" further emphasizes the importance of offering the sacrifice at the appointed time. Overall, this verse underscores the idea of obedience, faithfulness, and gratitude in worship, highlighting the relationship between God and His people through the practice of sacrifices.
Deuteronomy 16:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
but at the place which Jehovah thy God shall choose, to cause his name to dwell in, there thou shalt sacrifice the passover at even, at the going down of the sun, at the season that thou camest forth out of Egypt.
World English Bible
but at the place which Yahweh your God shall choose, to cause his name to dwell in, there you shall sacrifice the Passover at evening, at the going down of the sun, at the season that you came out of Egypt.
Douay-Rheims
But in the place which the Lord thy God shall choose, that his name may dwell there: thou shalt immolate the phase in the evening, at the going down of the sun, at which time thou camest out of Egypt.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But in the place which the Lord thy God shall choose to place his Name, there thou shalt offer the Passeouer at euen, about the going downe of the sunne, in the season that thou camest out of Egypt.