“All that openeth the matrix is mine, and every firstling among thy cattle, whether ox or sheep, that is male.”
Historical Context:In Exodus, the Israelites have been led out of slavery in Egypt by the hand of God through Moses. At this point in the narrative, Moses has ascended Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments and other laws from God. The first tablets were broken due to the incident of the golden calf, and now, God is renewing the covenant with the people.
“All that openeth the matrix is mine”: The phrase “openeth the matrix” refers to the firstborn, the first male child born in a family or the firstborn of cattle. God is asserting His ownership and claim over every firstborn. The firstborn holds a special significance in ancient cultures, including the Israelites. This verse reminds the people that the firstborn belongs to God, signifying His sovereignty and authority over all creation.
“Every firstling among thy cattle, whether ox or sheep, that is male”: In addition to the firstborn of human children, God also claims ownership over the firstborn of cattle, specifically mentioning oxen and sheep. This principle applies to all their livestock, and the firstborn male animal was to be consecrated to God as an offering.
The Concept of Firstfruits and Offerings:This verse highlights the concept of “firstfruits” in Israelite religious practices. Offering the first and best of their produce and livestock to God was a way for the people to acknowledge His provision and sovereignty. By consecrating the firstborn to God, they recognized that everything they had ultimately belonged to Him.
Symbolic and Spiritual Significance:This verse not only had practical implications for the Israelites in terms of their offerings and dedications but also carried symbolic and spiritual significance. The firstborn was a reminder of God’s deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt when He spared the firstborn of Israel during the final plague on Egypt (Exodus 12:29). Offering the firstborn served as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and a call to obedience.
Application for Christians today:Though the concept of offering firstborn animals as sacrifices is not directly applicable in Christianity, there are principles that we can draw from this verse. We can understand the importance of dedicating the first and best of what we have to God. This includes not only our material possessions but also our time, talents, and resources.
The idea of giving our first and best to God is echoed in various passages in the Bible. For instance, Proverbs 3:9-10 (KJV) says, “Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.”
In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as the “firstborn” over all creation (Colossians 1:15), and believers are called to present themselves as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God (Romans 12:1). This spiritual offering involves dedicating our lives entirely to God and following His will.
In conclusion, Exodus 34:19 teaches us about giving the first and best of what we have to God, acknowledging His sovereignty, and remembering His faithfulness. As Christians, we are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, putting God first in all aspects of our lives.
