Exodus 12:31
And he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, Rise up, and get you forth from among my people, both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve the LORD, as ye have said.
Exodus 12:31 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Exodus tells the story of how Pharaoh finally relented and allowed Moses and Aaron to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. After numerous plagues and negotiations, Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron in the middle of the night and instructed them to leave with the Israelites and go serve the Lord, as they had requested. This moment marked a significant turning point in the long and arduous journey towards freedom for the Israelites. It was a moment of great significance as it signaled the beginning of the end of their oppression in Egypt. The verse captures the decisive moment when Pharaoh's resolve crumbled, and the Israelites were finally granted permission to leave their enslavement and begin their journey towards the Promised Land. The importance of this verse lies in its depiction of God's power and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people, even in the face of great obstacles.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Exodus 12:31, Pharaoh finally relents and calls for Moses and Aaron in the middle of the night, commanding them to lead the Israelites out of Egypt to serve the Lord as they had requested. This moment marks a pivotal point in the narrative of the Israelites' exodus from slavery in Egypt. From a theological perspective, this passage highlights the divine intervention of God in fulfilling His promise to deliver His people from bondage. The word "Rise up" signifies a new beginning and a call to action, emphasizing the urgency and importance of leaving Egypt. The phrase "serve the LORD" underscores the purpose of their liberation - to worship and honor God. The obedience of Moses and Aaron in heeding God's command sets the stage for the miraculous events that follow, demonstrating God's faithfulness and power in delivering His people. Through a word study, one could delve deeper into the meanings of terms such as "serve" and "LORD" to gain a richer understanding of the spiritual significance of this verse.
Exodus 12:31 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, Rise up, get you forth from among my people, both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve Jehovah, as ye have said.
World English Bible
He called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, “Rise up, get out from among my people, both you and the children of Israel; and go, serve Yahweh, as you have said!
Douay-Rheims
And Pharao calling Moses and Aaron, in the night, said: Arise and go forth from among my people, you and the children of Israel: go, sacrifice to the Lord as you say.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And hee called to Moses and to Aaron by night, and saide, Rise vp, get you out from among my people, both yee, and the children of Israel, and goe serue the Lord as ye haue sayde.