Exodus 12:35

KJV

And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they borrowed of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment:

KJV (with Strong's)

And the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} did {H6213} according to the word {H1697} of Moses {H4872}; and they borrowed {H7592} of the Egyptians {H4714} jewels {H3627} of silver {H3701}, and jewels {H3627} of gold {H2091}, and raiment {H8071}:

Complete Jewish Bible

The people of Isra'el had done what Moshe had said - they had asked the Egyptians to give them silver and gold jewelry and clothing;

Berean Standard Bible

Furthermore, the Israelites acted on Moses’ word and asked the Egyptians for articles of silver and gold, and for clothing.

American Standard Version

And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they asked of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 12:35 details the Israelites' obedience to Moses' instruction, given by God, to request valuables from the Egyptians just before their departure, resulting in them acquiring significant "jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment." This act, often misunderstood as mere "borrowing," was a divinely orchestrated transfer of wealth, serving as a just recompense for centuries of forced labor and a fulfillment of God's ancient promise to Abraham, demonstrating God's faithfulness, justice, and provision for His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately precedes the Israelites' definitive departure from Egypt, described in [Exodus 12:37](/exodus/12-37 "The Israelites begin their journey from Rameses"). It is nestled within the climactic events of the [tenth and final plague](/exodus/12-29 "The death of the firstborn in Egypt"), the death of the firstborn, which finally broke Pharaoh's stubborn resistance and compelled him to urge the Israelites to leave ([Exodus 12:33](/exodus/12-33 "Egyptians urge Israel to leave")). The instruction for the Israelites to "ask" for these items was given much earlier to Moses by God ([Exodus 3:21-22](/exodus/3-21 "God's promise to Moses about Egyptian spoils") and [Exodus 11:2-3](/exodus/11-2 "Moses' instruction to the Israelites")), and here we see the Israelites' faithful execution of that command, underscoring their obedience as a key element of their deliverance.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** For over 400 years, the Israelites had endured brutal slavery under the Egyptians, forced to build cities like Pithom and Raamses ([Exodus 1:11](/exodus/1-11 "Israel's forced labor in Egypt")). In the ancient Near East, when a people were conquered or released from servitude, it was not uncommon for them to be compensated or for the victors to take spoils. This act, therefore, was not merely "borrowing" in the modern sense of a temporary loan with an expectation of return. Instead, it was a divinely sanctioned transfer of wealth, functioning as a form of reparations or "spoiling" of the oppressor. The Egyptians, desperate to be rid of the Israelites after the devastating plagues, were eager to give them whatever they asked, viewing their departure as the only way to avert further divine judgment ([Exodus 12:33](/exodus/12-33 "Egyptians urge Israel to leave")). This context highlights God's sovereignty over nations and His commitment to delivering justice for His oppressed people.
* **Key Themes:** This verse is a powerful illustration of several overarching themes in Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Justice and Retribution**, as God repays the Egyptians for centuries of oppression and unpaid labor, demonstrating His commitment to vindicating His people. Secondly, it highlights **God's Faithfulness to His Covenant Promises**, specifically the ancient promise to Abraham that his descendants would leave Egypt with "great possessions" ([Genesis 15:14](/genesis/15-14 "God's Covenant with Abraham")). Thirdly, the Israelites' action demonstrates **Obedience to Divine Command**, as they follow Moses' instructions, which were directly from God ([Exodus 3:21-22](/exodus/3-21 "God's promise of Egyptian spoils") and [Exodus 11:2-3](/exodus/11-2 "Moses' instruction to the Israelites")). Finally, it showcases **Divine Provision**, as God equips His people for their journey into the wilderness, ensuring they are not impoverished but enriched for the challenges and tasks ahead, including the construction of the Tabernacle ([Exodus/35-22](/exodus/35-22 "Offerings for the Tabernacle")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **"children" (Hebrew, _bên_):** From H1121. This word, often translated "son," encompasses a wider meaning, referring to descendants, members of a group, or a nation. Here, "children of Israel" (H1121 and H3478) signifies the entire Israelite nation, emphasizing their collective identity and unified action under Moses' leadership. It highlights their status as God's chosen people, distinct from the Egyptians, and underscores the corporate nature of God's covenant and deliverance.
* **"word" (Hebrew, _dâbâr_):** From H1697. More than just a spoken utterance, _dâbâr_ refers to a matter, thing, decree, or commandment. In this context, "the word of Moses" implies a divine instruction or directive that carries authority and requires obedience. It emphasizes that the Israelites' actions were not arbitrary but a direct fulfillment of God's revealed will, communicated through His chosen prophet. This word highlights the divine origin and authoritative nature of the command they followed.
* **"borrowed" (Hebrew, _shâʼal_):** From H7592. The King James Version's translation "borrowed" can be misleading. While _shâʼal_ can sometimes mean "to ask for a loan," its primary sense is "to ask," "to request," or "to demand." In this specific context, given God's explicit command for the Israelites to "ask" for these items ([Exodus 3:22](/exodus/3-22 "God's command to Moses regarding Egyptian spoils")), the Egyptians' desperate desire for their departure ([Exodus 12:33](/exodus/12-33 "Egyptians urge Israel to leave")), and the absence of any subsequent mention of repayment, _shâʼal_ here signifies a request that was granted under duress, effectively becoming a permanent transfer of ownership. It was a divinely sanctioned acquisition or "spoiling" of the oppressors, not a temporary loan.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses;":** This opening clause emphasizes the Israelites' obedience. Their actions were not impulsive or opportunistic, but a direct response to Moses' instructions, which were, in turn, God's commands. This highlights a foundational principle of the covenant relationship: blessing often follows obedience and trust in divine directives.
* **"and they borrowed of the Egyptians":** As discussed in the key word analysis, this phrase, using the Hebrew _shâʼal_, describes the act of requesting and receiving valuables from the Egyptians. It underscores a dramatic power reversal: the former slaves now "ask" or "demand," and the former masters, humbled and desperate by divine judgment, are compelled to give, eager for their departure.
* **"jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment:":** These specific items represent significant wealth and portable assets. "Jewels" (or articles/ornaments) of silver and gold signify precious metals and craftsmanship, while "raiment" (clothing) was also a valuable commodity in the ancient world, often used as a form of wealth or trade. This indicates that the Israelites left Egypt not as impoverished refugees, but as a people enriched by their former oppressors, equipped for their journey and future endeavors.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative employs a profound sense of **divine irony and reversal**. For centuries, the Egyptians had oppressed and exploited the Israelites, forcing them into labor without pay and robbing them of their dignity and freedom. Now, in a dramatic and divinely orchestrated turn of events, God compels the oppressors to willingly give their accumulated wealth to their former slaves. This is a powerful demonstration of God "spoiling" the spoilers, turning the tables on the powerful and exalting the humble, showcasing His ultimate control over human affairs and His commitment to justice.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 12:35 is rich with profound theological truths, serving as a powerful demonstration of God's active involvement in human history. This divinely orchestrated transfer of wealth underscores **God's Justice and Retribution**, providing a righteous recompense for over four centuries of brutal slavery, suffering, and unpaid labor endured by the Israelites. It vividly illustrates God's unwavering commitment to vindicating His oppressed people and righting grave wrongs. Furthermore, the event highlights **God's Unfailing Faithfulness to His Covenant Promises**, directly fulfilling the ancient prophecy given to Abraham that his descendants would depart from their affliction with "great substance." This passage also speaks to **Divine Provision**, as God not only liberates His people but also equips them with resources for their journey into the wilderness, foresightfully providing for their immediate needs and for the future construction of the Tabernacle. Finally, it powerfully showcases **God's Absolute Sovereignty Over Nations**, revealing His capacity to manipulate the hearts and circumstances of even the most powerful oppressors to accomplish His redemptive purposes.

* [Genesis 15:14](/genesis/15-14 "God's Promise to Abraham: Great Possessions")
* [Exodus 3:21-22](/exodus/3-21 "God's Promise of Egyptian Spoils")
* [Exodus 35:22](/exodus/35-22 "Israelites' Offerings for the Tabernacle")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 12:35 offers enduring lessons for believers today. It reminds us that God is actively involved in history, seeing the injustices of the world and working to bring about His perfect justice, often in unexpected and powerful ways. When we face periods of hardship, oppression, or unrewarded labor, this passage assures us that God remembers His people and will ultimately provide and vindicate them. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of obedience to God's word, even when His commands seem unusual or counter-intuitive, as the Israelites' faithful adherence to Moses' instruction directly led to their empowerment and enrichment. Trusting God's instructions can unlock remarkable outcomes and demonstrate His faithfulness in our lives, reminding us that His timing and methods are always perfect.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of God's justice in [Exodus 12:35](/exodus/12-35 "Israelites acquire wealth from Egyptians") encourage you when you witness or experience injustice in the world today?**
* **In what areas of your life might God be calling you to "do according to His word," even if the outcome isn't immediately clear or seems unconventional?**
* **How does this story of God's provision for Israel, even in their vulnerability, strengthen your faith in His ability to provide for your needs?**

### FAQ
**Did the Israelites steal from the Egyptians?**

Answer: No, the text does not describe this as stealing. The Hebrew word _shâʼal_, often translated "borrowed," means "to ask" or "to demand." Given the context of the plagues and the Egyptians' desperate desire for the Israelites to leave, the Egyptians willingly gave their valuables. This was a divinely sanctioned transfer of wealth, a form of reparations for centuries of unpaid labor and oppression, rather than an act of theft or a temporary loan with an expectation of return.

**Why did God command the Israelites to take the Egyptians' wealth?**

Answer: God commanded this for several reasons. Primarily, it was an act of divine justice, compensating the Israelites for over 400 years of brutal slavery and unpaid labor ([Exodus 1:11](/exodus/1-11 "Israel's forced labor in Egypt")). Secondly, it was the fulfillment of a specific prophecy God had given to Abraham centuries earlier, promising that his descendants would leave Egypt with "great substance" ([Genesis 15:14](/genesis/15-14 "God's prophecy to Abraham")). Finally, this wealth was also part of God's provision for His people in the wilderness, with a significant portion later being used for the construction of the Tabernacle, the dwelling place for God's presence among them ([Exodus 35:22](/exodus/35-22 "Offerings for the Tabernacle")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 12:35, though an Old Testament historical event, powerfully prefigures the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and the spiritual realities of the New Covenant. Just as God liberated Israel from physical slavery and enriched them with the spoils of their oppressors, Jesus Christ liberates humanity from spiritual slavery to sin, death, and the dominion of Satan ([Romans 6:6](/romans/6-6 "Our old self crucified with Christ")). Through His victorious death and resurrection, Christ decisively "spoiled" the principalities and powers, triumphing over them and disarming them of their authority ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Christ's triumph over spiritual powers")). Moreover, the material wealth acquired by Israel was ultimately consecrated for the building of the Tabernacle, a sacred space for God's presence among His people. This foreshadows the infinitely greater spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ—"spiritual blessings in the heavenly places" ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Spiritual blessings in Christ"))—an endowment far more precious and enduring than silver or gold. These spiritual riches empower believers to be built up as a "spiritual house" ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "Living stones in a spiritual house")), a living temple where the Holy Spirit dwells, thereby fulfilling the ultimate purpose of the Tabernacle: God's intimate presence among His redeemed people. Thus, Christ not only delivers us from our spiritual oppressors but also richly provides us with all we need to be His dwelling place and to serve Him in the new creation.

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 3:21

And I will give this people favour in the sight of the Egyptians: and it shall come to pass, that, when ye go, ye shall not go empty:

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 11:2

Speak now in the ears of the people, and let every man borrow of his neighbour, and every woman of her neighbour, jewels of silver, and jewels of gold.

Exodus 11:3

And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover the man Moses [was] very great in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh's servants, and in the sight of the people.

Psalms 105:37

He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and [there was] not one feeble [person] among their tribes.

Genesis 15:14

And also that nation, whom they shall serve, will I judge: and afterward shall they come out with great substance.