Exodus 13:15
And it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that the LORD slew all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast: therefore I sacrifice to the LORD all that openeth the matrix, being males; but all the firstborn of my children I redeem.
Exodus 13:15 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Exodus recounts the story of the final plague that struck the land of Egypt during the time of Moses. Pharaoh's stubbornness led to the eventual release of the Israelites from slavery, but only after the devastating event where the Lord slew all the firstborn in the land. This act was a demonstration of the Lord's power and his determination to free his people. In response to this event, the Israelites were instructed to sacrifice all that opened the womb, both humans and animals, to the Lord as a sign of gratitude and acknowledgment of his mercy and protection. Furthermore, the verse mentions the redemption of the firstborn children, highlighting the importance of dedicating resources and offerings to the Lord. This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, obedience, and gratitude towards God in times of triumph and tragedy.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse from Exodus 13:15 reveals the significance of the firstborn in the culture of ancient Egypt as well as the symbolic meaning of the act of sacrificing and redeeming. In ancient Egypt, the firstborn son was considered of great importance and held a special position in the family and society. By slaying all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, including the firstborn of beasts, the Lord demonstrated His power and authority over Pharaoh and the entire nation. The act of sacrificing all that opens the matrix, being males, symbolizes the Israelites' acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and their gratitude for being spared during the plague. The redemption of the firstborn children further illustrates the Israelites' dedication to God and their desire to honor Him through obedience to His commands. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and obedience in the face of adversity.
Exodus 13:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
and it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that Jehovah slew all the first-born in the land of Egypt, both the first-born of man, and the first-born of beast: therefore I sacrifice to Jehovah all that openeth the womb, being males; but all the first-born of my sons I redeem.
World English Bible
When Pharaoh stubbornly refused to let us go, Yahweh killed all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of animal. Therefore I sacrifice to Yahweh all that opens the womb, being males; but all the firstborn of my sons I redeem.’
Douay-Rheims
For when Pharao was hardened, and would not let us go, the Lord slew every firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of man to the firstborn of beasts: therefore I sacrifice to the Lord all that openeth the womb of the male sex, and all the firstborn of my sons I redeem.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For when Pharaoh was harde hearted against our departing, the Lord then slewe all the first borne in the lande of Egypt: from the first borne of man euen to the first borne of beast: therefore I sacrifice vnto the Lord all the males that first open the wombe, but all the first borne of my sonnes I redeeme.