“Ye shall eat nothing leavened; in all your habitations shall ye eat unleavened bread.”
Exodus 12:20 is a part of the account of the institution of the Passover in the book of Exodus. This chapter describes the final plague that struck Egypt, the death of the firstborn, and the subsequent deliverance of the Israelites from bondage.
Historical Context:At this point in the narrative, Moses had been instructed by God to speak to the Israelites and prepare them for their departure from Egypt. The Lord was about to strike down all the firstborn in Egypt but would pass over the houses of the Israelites that had the blood of a lamb applied to their doorposts.
Symbolism of Leavened and Unleavened Bread: In verse 20, the Israelites are commanded to eat unleavened bread and avoid eating anything leavened during the Passover. Leaven, or yeast, is a substance that causes dough to rise and ferment. In the Bible, leaven often symbolizes impurity, corruption, and sin. By removing leaven from their dwellings and consuming unleavened bread, the Israelites were symbolically purifying themselves and separating from the sinful practices and influence of Egypt.
Observance of the Passover: The Passover was to be observed as a commemorative feast, celebrating the redemption and deliverance of the Israelites from slavery. It marked a new beginning for God’s chosen people. The unleavened bread served as a tangible reminder of their hasty departure from Egypt, as they did not have time to wait for the bread to rise. It also represented their commitment to live a holy and set-apart life as they embarked on their journey towards the Promised Land.
Application for Believers: As Christians, we can draw spiritual lessons from Exodus 12:20 and the observance of the Passover. The leaven symbolizes sin in our lives. Just as the Israelites were called to remove leaven from their homes, we are called to rid ourselves of sin and impurity. The New Testament also uses the imagery of leaven to caution against the influence of false teachings and immoral behavior.
Additionally, the unleavened bread represents Jesus Christ, who is described as the “bread of life” in the New Testament. He is sinless, pure, and without corruption. Jesus, through His sacrificial death on the cross, became our Passover Lamb, providing deliverance from the bondage of sin and eternal separation from God. As believers, we are called to partake of the body of Christ, embracing His sacrifice and living lives that honor Him.
In summary, Exodus 12:20 teaches us about the observance of the Passover and the symbolism of leavened and unleavened bread. It calls us to purify ourselves from sin and embrace a holy lifestyle. As Christians, we can also see the fulfillment of the Passover in Jesus Christ, who became our sacrificial Lamb and offers us redemption and eternal life.
