Exodus 12:23
For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when he seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you.
Exodus 12:23 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse comes from the book of Exodus in the Bible and is part of the story of the Passover. In this event, the Israelites were instructed to mark their doorposts with the blood of a lamb so that the Lord would "pass over" their houses and spare them from the plague that would strike the firstborn of Egypt. This act of obedience and faith demonstrated by the Israelites symbolized their trust in God's protection and deliverance. By following this command, the Israelites were saved from the judgment that fell on the Egyptians. The blood on the doorposts serves as a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood would later provide salvation and redemption for all who believe in Him. This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands and the power of His protection over His people.
Theological Overview
This verse from Exodus 12:23 describes the events leading up to the Passover night when the Israelites were instructed to mark their doors with the blood of a lamb. The theological interpretation of this passage highlights the importance of obedience and faith in God's protection. The act of placing the blood on the doorposts symbolizes an outward display of trust in God's promise to pass over the homes of the Israelites and spare them from the judgment brought upon the Egyptians. This event foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, known as the Lamb of God, whose blood provides salvation and protection for all who believe in Him. The word "Passover" itself signifies the act of God passing over the homes marked with blood, sparing the inhabitants from destruction. This passage serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness to His people and the significance of obedience and faith in His deliverance.
Exodus 12:23 in other translations
American Standard Version
For Jehovah will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when he seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side-posts, Jehovah will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you.
World English Bible
For Yahweh will pass through to strike the Egyptians; and when he sees the blood on the lintel, and on the two door posts, Yahweh will pass over the door, and will not allow the destroyer to come in to your houses to strike you.
Douay-Rheims
For the Lord will pass through striking the Egyptians: and when he shall see the blood on the transom, and on both the posts, he will pass over the door of the house, and not suffer the destroyer to come into your houses and to hurt you.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For the Lord will passe by to smite the Egyptians: and when he seeth the blood vpon the lintel and on the two doore cheekes, the Lord wil passe ouer the doore, and wil not suffer the destroyer to come into your houses to plague you.