“And ye shall take a bunch of hyssop, and dip it in the blood that is in the bason, and strike the lintel and the two side posts with the blood that is in the bason; and none of you shall go out at the door of his house until the morning.”
Historical Context: Exodus 12 is a pivotal chapter in the book of Exodus, where God instructs Moses and the Israelites about the Passover and their liberation from slavery in Egypt. This verse specifically details one of the instructions given to the Israelites concerning the application of the lamb’s blood on their doorposts as a sign for the Lord to pass over their homes during the final plague on Egypt.
Symbolism of the Blood: The blood of the lamb represents the sacrifice that was made on behalf of the Israelites. It was a symbol of protection and redemption. The application of the blood on the doorposts was a visible demonstration of faith and obedience to God’s command, ensuring the safety of the firstborn in those households.
The Use of Hyssop: The instruction to use a bunch of hyssop to apply the blood of the lamb is significant. Hyssop was a small, bushy plant with fragrant leaves. In the Bible, hyssop was often associated with purification and cleansing. The use of hyssop in this context may signify the need for the Israelites to be cleansed and purified by the blood of the lamb, which foreshadows the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, whose blood cleanses believers from sin.
Protection and Obedience: The Israelites were commanded not to leave their homes until the morning after applying the blood. This instruction emphasized their complete trust in God’s promise of protection and their obedience to His command. By staying inside their homes, they demonstrated their faith and reliance on God’s deliverance.
Spiritual Application: The events described in Exodus 12:22 hold spiritual significance for believers today. Just as the Israelites were delivered from the bondage of Egypt through the blood of the lamb, Christians are redeemed and set free from the power of sin through the sacrificial blood of Jesus Christ. The act of applying the blood on the doorposts symbolizes our faith in Christ’s atoning sacrifice and the protection we receive as His followers.
Obedience and Trust: Similar to the Israelites’ obedience to God’s command, believers are called to trust in God and follow His instructions. It requires faith and obedience to apply the blood of Jesus in our lives, trusting in His redemptive power to cleanse and protect us from the consequences of sin.
In summary, Exodus 12:22 reminds us of the significance of the Passover event and the power of the blood of the lamb. It foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood brings redemption and protection for those who trust in Him. May we continually apply His blood to our lives and walk in faith and obedience to experience His deliverance and salvation.
