Exodus 3:22

But every woman shall borrow of her neighbour, and of her that sojourneth in her house, jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment: and ye shall put them upon your sons, and upon your daughters; and ye shall spoil the Egyptians.

Exodus 3:22 (KJV)

Context

In Exodus 3, God speaks to Moses from a burning bush and sends him to Pharaoh to demand Israel’s release. This verse closes that meeting with a surprising command. The Israelite women are to ask their Egyptian neighbours and any women staying in their houses for silver, gold, and clothing. They are to put these items on their sons and daughters. In this way, Israel will strip Egypt of its wealth.

Meaning

The word translated “borrow” in the King James Version is better understood as “ask” or “request.” The Egyptians willingly give these valuables because God makes them favour Israel. This is not deception; it is a divine arrangement. The goods are not for personal luxury. They are placed on the children, showing that God’s provision reaches the whole family and marks the next generation with His care. This act is a visible sign of God’s recompense for years of slavery, as He turns the hearts of the oppressors.

Biblical connections

This command fulfils God’s promise that Israel will not leave empty-handed (Exodus 3:21). It also connects to His earlier word to Abraham that his descendants would come out with great possessions (Genesis 15:14). The wealth taken from Egypt is fair payment for years of slave labour. It is also a sign of God’s judgment on Egypt’s gods, proving that the Lord is stronger than any power Pharaoh trusted. The plundering of Egypt demonstrates God’s sovereignty over nations and His ability to use the resources of the world to bless His people.

Application

God still works in tangible ways to provide for His people. He can turn the hearts of those who oppose us and use their resources to bless us. When He delivers, He does not leave us empty. He gives what we need to honour Him and to care for our families. This truth encourages us to trust His timing and His methods, even when they seem unusual. Just as He provided for Israel, He provides for us, and He often does so through unexpected means.

Reflection

The spoiling of Egypt points to a greater deliverance. Through Jesus Christ, believers are freed from the bondage of sin. In that freedom, God enriches His people with spiritual treasures and restores what was lost. The same God who provided for Israel’s children invites us to rely on His faithful provision and to pass on His blessings to the next generation. His deliverance is comprehensive, covering both spiritual and material needs, and His promises are reliable.