Exodus 12:35

And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they borrowed of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment:

Exodus 12:35 (KJV)

Context

This verse sits at the climax of the Passover narrative. In Exodus 12, God commanded the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb and mark their doorposts with its blood, so the Lord would pass over their homes during the final plague. They were to eat the roasted lamb with unleavened bread and bitter herbs, dressed and ready to leave Egypt at a moment’s notice.

Meaning

The children of Israel did according to the word of Moses, and they asked the Egyptians for silver, gold, and clothing. The Hebrew word translated “borrowed” in the KJV more accurately means “asked” or “requested.” This was not a deceptive scheme; the Egyptians, eager to see them go, granted the request. The previous verse shows the Egyptians urging the Israelites to leave quickly, saying, “We be all dead men” (Exodus 12:33). The following verse clarifies that the LORD gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so they gave them what they asked, and the Israelites plundered the Egyptians (Exodus 12:36).

Biblical connections

This event fulfilled God’s promise to Abraham that his descendants would come out of Egypt with great possessions (Genesis 15:14). It was later recalled in Psalm 105:37, which says God brought Israel out with silver and gold. The wealth they received was not merely personal gain; it provided for their journey and later contributed to the building of the tabernacle. The Egyptians’ willingness to give their treasures was a sign of God’s power and a form of compensation for years of slavery.

Application

Obedience to God’s word, even when it seems unusual, leads to His provision. The Israelites followed Moses’ instructions, and God turned the hearts of their oppressors to bless them. This reminds us that God can bring justice and restoration to those who have suffered unjustly. He is faithful to His promises, and He can provide for His people in unexpected ways.

Reflection

When we obey God, we may not always see the immediate outcome, but we can trust that He is at work. The same God who gave the Israelites favor in Egypt can give us favor in our own difficult circumstances. He sees our labor and our need, and He is able to supply abundantly.