“But every man’s servant that is bought for money, when thou hast circumcised him, then shall he eat thereof.”
This verse is found in the context of the institution of the Passover, which was a significant event in the history of the Israelites. It marked their liberation from slavery in Egypt and the beginning of their journey toward the Promised Land.
In Exodus 12, God gives detailed instructions to Moses and Aaron regarding the observance of the Passover. The verse in question, Exodus 12:44:focuses on the participation of servants or slaves in the Passover feast.
The verse begins by stating that every man’s servant who is bought for money should be circumcised. Circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and the Israelites, introduced earlier in the book of Genesis with Abraham. In this context, it served as a mark of identification with the Israelite community.
The phrase “then shall he eat thereof” refers to the servant’s participation in the Passover meal. Once the servant has undergone circumcision and thus become part of the community, he is permitted to partake in the Passover feast, which primarily consisted of the sacrificial lamb, unleavened bread, and bitter herbs.
The significance of this verse lies in the inclusion of servants in the Passover observance. By extending the invitation to participate in the feast to all members of the household, regardless of their social status, God demonstrated His concern for equality and justice. He affirmed that all individuals, regardless of their background, were to be treated as part of the community and included in the religious practices and blessings.
This principle resonates with the broader theme found throughout the Bible, which emphasizes the value of every person and the importance of treating others with fairness and respect. In the New Testament, this principle is reinforced through the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized love, acceptance, and the value of serving others.
In summary:Exodus 12:44 highlights the inclusive nature of the Passover observance, inviting every man’s servant who has undergone circumcision to participate in the feast. It reminds us of the biblical principle of equality and serves as a reminder to treat others with fairness and respect, regardless of their social status or background.
