“And thus shall ye eat it; with your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it is the LORD’S passover.”
Context: Exodus 12 is part of the narrative of the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt, commonly known as the Exodus. God had sent ten plagues upon Egypt to convince Pharaoh to release the Israelites, and the final plague was the death of the firstborn in every household. In this chapter, God instructs Moses and Aaron about the Passover, which would serve as a sign of protection for the Israelites.
The Passover: The Passover was a significant event in the Old Testament, marking the night when God “passed over” the houses of the Israelites and spared their firstborn from death. It is also a foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrifice in the New Testament. The Passover lamb played a central role in this event.
Preparation for the Passover meal: In Exodus 12:11, God gives specific instructions to the Israelites regarding how they should eat the Passover meal. They were to eat it with a sense of urgency and readiness to depart from Egypt. The following instructions are given:
- “With your loins girded”: This phrase refers to the act of tucking the loose ends of one’s garments into the belt or waistband, which was done to prepare for action or travel. It symbolizes readiness and preparedness.
- “Your shoes on your feet”: The Israelites were instructed to keep their shoes on, indicating that they were to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. It further emphasizes the urgency of the situation.
- “Your staff in your hand”: Carrying a staff or rod was common in those times and served various purposes, including support while walking and defense. The staff represented their authority and readiness for the journey.
Symbolism and spiritual significance: This verse holds symbolic meaning beyond the immediate context of the Exodus. It teaches us several spiritual lessons:
- Readiness and obedience: The Israelites’ obedience to these instructions demonstrated their trust and faith in God’s promise of deliverance. It teaches us the importance of being ready and obedient to God’s commands.
- Redemption and salvation: The Passover lamb symbolizes the sacrificial system in the Old Testament, pointing forward to Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who would be sacrificed for the redemption and salvation of humanity.
- Urgency and perseverance: The Israelites’ haste in eating the Passover meal reflects the urgency with which they were to leave Egypt. It reminds us to be diligent and persistent in our pursuit of God’s promises and to seize opportunities for growth and obedience.
Overall, Exodus 12:11 emphasizes the importance of readiness, obedience, and the redemptive significance of the Passover. It serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to deliver His people and the foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrifice for our salvation.
