Exodus 12:32

KJV

Also take your flocks and your herds, as ye have said, and be gone; and bless me also.

KJV (with Strong's)

Also take {H3947} your flocks {H6629} and your herds {H1241}, as ye have said {H1696}, and be gone {H3212}; and bless {H1288} me also.

Complete Jewish Bible

Take both your flocks and your herds, as you said; and get out of here! But bless me, too."

Berean Standard Bible

Take your flocks and herds as well, just as you have said, and depart! And bless me also.”

American Standard Version

Take both your flocks and your herds, as ye have said, and be gone; and bless me also.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 12:32 marks the dramatic and climactic turning point in the narrative of Israel's liberation from Egypt, where a defeated Pharaoh, reeling from the devastating tenth plague, finally capitulates to God's demands. In a desperate plea, he commands Moses and Aaron to depart immediately with all their requested possessions, including their livestock, and, remarkably, implores them to invoke a blessing upon him from their God, signaling the immediate and irreversible commencement of the long-awaited exodus from centuries of Egyptian bondage.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the horrific and climactic [death of the firstborn throughout Egypt](/exodus/12-29 "The Tenth Plague: Death of the Firstborn"). The preceding verses detail the widespread wailing and immense pressure exerted on Pharaoh by his own people, who were terrified by the unprecedented divine judgment. Pharaoh's desperate words in this verse are a direct, coerced response to this final, devastating plague, fulfilling God's earlier promise to Moses that Pharaoh would not merely let them go but would "drive them out altogether" ([Exodus 11:1](/exodus/11-1 "God's Promise of Pharaoh's Final Push")). The verses that immediately follow describe the Israelites' hasty departure from Egypt, laden with the spoils of their former oppressors, and the commencement of their journey toward the Promised Land ([Exodus 12:33-39](/exodus/12-33 "Israel Departs Egypt")). This verse, therefore, serves as the pivotal moment of release, bridging the period of divine judgment with the beginning of Israel's national formation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Egypt, Pharaoh was not merely a king but was considered a divine being, the living embodiment of the god Horus, and the supreme earthly ruler. His persistent resistance to Yahweh was thus not merely a political standoff but a profound theological challenge, as he believed himself and the Egyptian pantheon to be superior to any foreign deity. The plagues, therefore, were meticulously designed not just as natural disasters but as direct judgments against specific Egyptian gods, demonstrating Yahweh's absolute supremacy over all creation and all other deities. Pharaoh's repeated hardening of his heart, despite the escalating devastation, reflects the ancient Near Eastern concept of a king's unwavering resolve and honor, which made capitulation extremely difficult. His final, astonishing plea for a "blessing" from the God of Israel, a deity he had previously scorned and defied, represents a profound cultural and theological reversal, acknowledging Yahweh's overwhelming power and desperately seeking to avert further calamity, even if it was a pragmatic rather than a pious request.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 12:32 contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Power**, as God demonstrates His absolute control over all creation, nations, and rulers, forcing even the most powerful human monarch to submit to His will. This verse also powerfully illustrates **God's Faithfulness to His Covenant Promises**, particularly the ancient promise to Abraham that his descendants would be enslaved but then brought out with great possessions ([Genesis 15:13-14](/genesis/15-13 "God's Covenant with Abraham")). Furthermore, it highlights the **Consequences of Stubborn Rebellion** against God, as Pharaoh's persistent defiance brought ruin upon his nation, culminating in the death of the firstborn and his abject surrender. This serves as a stark warning about the futility and danger of defying the Almighty, emphasizing that God's purposes will ultimately prevail, regardless of human resistance, as seen throughout the narrative of the plagues in [Exodus 7-12](/exodus/7 "The Plagues Begin").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **take (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** From H3947, meaning "to take (in the widest variety of applications)." In this context, Pharaoh's use of "take" is not merely permission but an urgent, almost desperate command. It signifies his complete surrender and insistence that they leave immediately, taking everything they need. This fulfills Moses' earlier, unyielding demand that "not a hoof shall be left behind" ([Exodus 10:26](/exodus/10-26 "Moses' Refusal to Leave Livestock")), underscoring the completeness of God's victory.
* **flocks and your herds (Hebrew, _tsôʼn'_ and _bâqâr'_):** From H6629 (flocks, meaning sheep or goats) and H1241 (herds, meaning beef cattle or ox family). This phrase emphasizes the totality of Pharaoh's concession. Moses had consistently insisted on taking all livestock for sacrifices to the Lord, a demand Pharaoh had repeatedly tried to negotiate away (e.g., [Exodus 8:25-27](/exodus/8-25-27 "Pharaoh's First Concession")). His final, unreserved concession here signifies his total defeat and the complete fulfillment of God's original instruction.
* **bless (Hebrew, _bârak'_):** From H1288, meaning "to kneel; by implication to bless God (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse." This is the most striking and poignant phrase in the verse. For Pharaoh, a pagan ruler who had defiantly challenged Yahweh, to request a "blessing" indicates a profound, albeit fear-driven, recognition of Yahweh's overwhelming power. It is likely a desperate, pragmatic plea for protection from further divine judgment or a cessation of the plagues, rather than a genuine act of worship or conversion. He has witnessed the devastating power of Israel's God and now seeks to be on the right side of that power, if only for self-preservation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Also take your flocks and your herds, as ye have said, and be gone;"**: This clause reveals Pharaoh's absolute capitulation. His earlier defiance, stubbornness, and attempts at partial concessions (e.g., leaving the livestock behind, or only the men going) are now completely abandoned. He grants Moses and Aaron everything they demanded, urging their immediate departure. The phrase "as ye have said" underscores that Moses' original, uncompromising demands are now fully met, highlighting the divine victory. This is a command born of terror and desperation, not benevolence or goodwill.
* **"and bless me also."**: This is a shocking and deeply ironic request from the proud and previously defiant Pharaoh. After enduring ten devastating plagues, culminating in the death of his own firstborn son, he recognizes the immense and terrifying power of the God of Israel. His request for a "blessing" is a desperate attempt to mitigate the terrifying consequences he has just experienced and to avert further divine wrath. It is a plea for protection or favor from the very God he had previously challenged and scorned, demonstrating his recognition that the power that brought such devastation could also bring peace or protection.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 12:32 is rich with **Dramatic Irony** and a profound **Reversal of Power**. Pharaoh, who once arrogantly declared, "Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go" ([Exodus 5:2](/exodus/5-2 "Pharaoh's Initial Defiance")), is now utterly broken, reduced to pleading for a blessing from that very God. This stark shift from stubborn defiance to desperate supplication underscores the overwhelming efficacy of God's judgment and the ultimate futility of human resistance against divine will. The verse also employs **Understatement** in Pharaoh's concise command, which belies the immense suffering and divine power that led to his surrender.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully illustrates several core theological truths. First, it is a profound testament to **God's absolute sovereignty and irresistible power** over all creation, including the most powerful earthly rulers. Pharaoh's forced submission demonstrates that no human will, political empire, or pagan deity can ultimately thwart God's redemptive plans. Second, it highlights **God's unwavering faithfulness** to His promises. Centuries earlier, God had promised Abraham that his descendants would be enslaved but then brought out with great possessions ([Genesis 15:13-14](/genesis/15-13 "God's Covenant with Abraham")). This verse marks the climactic fulfillment of that promise, demonstrating God's long-term commitment to His covenant people. Third, it underscores the **consequences of persistent rebellion** against God's will. Pharaoh's hardened heart brought ruin upon his nation, culminating in the death of the firstborn and his abject surrender. This serves as a stark warning about the futility and danger of defying the Almighty, emphasizing that God's justice will ultimately prevail.

* [Psalm 105:23-25](/psalms/105-23-25 "God's Judgment on Egypt") recounts God's bringing Israel to Egypt and then turning the hearts of the Egyptians against them, demonstrating His control over nations and their rulers.
* [Exodus 6:6-7](/exodus/6-6-7 "God's Promise to Deliver Israel") reiterates God's commitment to deliver Israel with an outstretched arm and make them His people, a promise fulfilled in this moment.
* [Romans 9:17](/romans/9-17 "God's Purpose in Pharaoh") explains how God raised up Pharaoh to demonstrate His power and make His name known throughout the earth, illustrating that even human resistance serves God's ultimate purposes.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 12:32 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that no matter how formidable or entrenched the opposition, God's purposes will ultimately prevail. When we face seemingly insurmountable obstacles in our lives—whether personal struggles, societal injustices, spiritual battles, or the stubborn resistance of others—this verse assures us that God is sovereign and capable of breaking even the most hardened resistance. It encourages us to trust in His perfect timing and His omnipotent power, knowing that He is utterly faithful to His promises. Furthermore, Pharaoh's desperate plea for a blessing, even from a place of fear and pragmatism, highlights a universal human recognition of a higher power and the innate desire for divine favor. It challenges us to consider our own posture before God: Do we truly seek His blessing and guidance in all circumstances, acknowledging His sovereignty and goodness, or do we only turn to Him in moments of desperation, seeking merely to avert negative consequences? Our response to God's revealed power should be one of humble submission and genuine worship, not merely pragmatic appeasement.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Pharaohs" or seemingly insurmountable obstacles in your life or in the world do you need to trust God to overcome, believing in His ultimate sovereignty?**
* **How does Pharaoh's reluctant and fear-driven request for a blessing challenge or affirm your own understanding of seeking God's favor and living under His blessing?**
* **In what ways might you be subtly resisting God's will or delaying obedience, and what potential consequences might that bring, either personally or corporately?**

### FAQ
**Why would Pharaoh, a pagan king, ask for a blessing from the God of Israel?**

Answer: Pharaoh's request was not likely a genuine conversion or an act of worship in the sense of embracing Yahweh as his sole God. Instead, it was a desperate, pragmatic plea born out of terror and self-preservation. Having witnessed the overwhelming and destructive power of Yahweh through the ten plagues, culminating in the death of his own firstborn, Pharaoh recognized that this God possessed immense power to both destroy and, presumably, protect or grant peace. He sought to appease this powerful deity and avert further calamity, hoping for protection or relief from the devastating judgments. It was an acknowledgment of Yahweh's undeniable supremacy and power, even if grudging and fear-driven, demonstrating that even the most hardened heart can be broken by divine judgment.

**Does "bless me also" imply that Pharaoh believed in Yahweh?**

Answer: Not necessarily in the sense of a saving faith or exclusive devotion to Yahweh. It implies a profound recognition of Yahweh's immense power and influence, specifically His demonstrated ability to bring about devastating judgment and, by extension, to withhold it. In the ancient Near East, it was common for rulers to acknowledge the power of other nations' gods, especially if those gods demonstrated superior power over their own deities, as Yahweh clearly had over the Egyptian pantheon. Pharaoh's request is more akin to a desperate attempt to mitigate a perceived threat and gain favor from a powerful entity, rather than a genuine theological shift or conversion to monotheism. His subsequent pursuit of the Israelites at the Red Sea ([Exodus 14:5-9](/exodus/14-5-9 "Pharaoh Pursues Israel")) confirms that his "blessing" request was born of fear, not a change of heart.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 12:32, marking the dramatic beginning of the Exodus, serves as a profound **type** or foreshadowing of the greater, ultimate liberation accomplished by Jesus Christ. The Exodus event, with Israel's deliverance from the physical bondage of Egypt, points to Christ's work in freeing humanity from the spiritual bondage of sin and death. Just as the blood of the Passover lamb secured Israel's deliverance from the angel of death on that fateful night, so the precious blood of Jesus, the ultimate and perfect Passover Lamb ([1 Corinthians 5:7](/1_corinthians/5-7 "Christ Our Passover")), secures eternal salvation and deliverance from spiritual death for all who believe. Pharaoh's forced surrender to God's overwhelming power foreshadows the ultimate triumph of Christ over all spiritual powers and authorities, disarming them and leading them captive in His victory ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). The journey of Israel from slavery to the Promised Land prefigures the Christian's spiritual journey from the slavery of sin to new life in Christ ([Romans 6:4](/romans/6-4 "Newness of Life in Christ")) and the promise of eternal rest and inheritance in God's presence ([Hebrews 4:9-11](/hebrews/4-9-11 "The Promise of Rest")). Thus, the liberation initiated in Exodus 12:32 finds its ultimate and complete fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus, who brings about a spiritual exodus for all who trust in Him, leading them to true freedom and an eternal inheritance.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 10:26

Our cattle also shall go with us; there shall not an hoof be left behind; for thereof must we take to serve the LORD our God; and we know not with what we must serve the LORD, until we come thither.

Genesis 27:34

And when Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry, and said unto his father, Bless me, [even] me also, O my father.

Exodus 8:28

And Pharaoh said, I will let you go, that ye may sacrifice to the LORD your God in the wilderness; only ye shall not go very far away: intreat for me.

Exodus 10:9

And Moses said, We will go with our young and with our old, with our sons and with our daughters, with our flocks and with our herds will we go; for we [must hold] a feast unto the LORD.

Genesis 27:38

And Esau said unto his father, Hast thou but one blessing, my father? bless me, [even] me also, O my father. And Esau lifted up his voice, and wept.

Exodus 9:28

Intreat the LORD (for [it is] enough) that there be no [more] mighty thunderings and hail; and I will let you go, and ye shall stay no longer.