Exodus 12:48
And when a stranger shall sojourn with thee, and will keep the passover to the LORD, let all his males be circumcised, and then let him come near and keep it; and he shall be as one that is born in the land: for no uncircumcised person shall eat thereof.
Exodus 12:48 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Exodus outlines the requirements for strangers who wish to participate in the Passover celebration. In the context of ancient Jewish tradition, the Passover is a sacred ritual that commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt. By mandating that all males who wish to partake in the festivities be circumcised, the verse emphasizes the importance of upholding the covenant between God and the people of Israel. The act of circumcision symbolizes a commitment to following the laws and commandments of the Lord. Additionally, it signifies inclusion into the community of believers and aligns with the idea that all who wish to worship the Lord must do so in a manner that reflects a genuine devotion and obedience to His will. The verse underscores the significance of upholding religious practices and rituals as a way to solidify one's spiritual identity and connection to the divine.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Exodus addresses the issue of a stranger who wishes to partake in the Passover feast. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of circumcision as a sign of the covenant between God and his people. Circumcision was a physical act that demonstrated a commitment to following God's commandments and being part of the community of believers. In this context, it was necessary for the males of any foreigner who wanted to participate in the Passover to be circumcised. This act symbolized their faith and willingness to align themselves with the customs and beliefs of the Israelites. The provision that no uncircumcised person could partake in the Passover meal served as a reminder of the holiness of the feast and the need for all participants to be in a right relationship with God. By upholding this requirement, the Israelites affirmed their identity as the chosen people of God and their commitment to living according to his will.
Exodus 12:48 in other translations
American Standard Version
And when a stranger shall sojourn with thee, and will keep the passover to Jehovah, let all his males be circumcised, and then let him come near and keep it; and he shall be as one that is born in the land: but no uncircumcised person shall eat thereof.
World English Bible
When a stranger shall live as a foreigner with you, and will keep the Passover to Yahweh, let all his males be circumcised, and then let him come near and keep it; and he shall be as one who is born in the land: but no uncircumcised person shall eat of it.
Douay-Rheims
And if any stranger be willing to dwell among you, and to keep the Phase of the Lord, all his males shall first be circumcised, and then shall he celebrate it according to the manner: and he shall be as he that is born in the land: but if any man be uncircumcised, he shall not eat thereof.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But if a stranger dwell with thee, and will obserue the Passeouer of the Lord, let him circumcise all the males, that belong vnto him, and then let him come and obserue it, and he shall be as one that is borne in the land: for none vncircumcised person shall eate thereof.