TRV
Translation
King James Version
That thou shalt set apart unto the LORD all that openeth the matrix, and every firstling that cometh of a beast which thou hast; the males shall be the LORD'S.
Complete Jewish Bible
you are to set apart for ADONAI everything that is first from the womb. Every firstborn male animal will belong to ADONAI.
Berean Standard Bible
you are to present to the LORD the firstborn male of every womb. All the firstborn males of your livestock belong to the LORD.
American Standard Version
that thou shalt set apart unto Jehovah all that openeth the womb, and every firstling which thou hast that cometh of a beast; the males shall be Jehovah’s.
World English Bible Messianic
that you shall set apart to the LORD all that opens the womb, and every firstborn which you have that comes from an animal. The males shall be the LORD’s.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then thou shalt set apart vnto the Lord all that first openeth the wombe: also euery thing that first doeth open the wombe, and commeth forth of thy beast: the males shalbe the Lordes.
Young's Literal Translation
that thou hast caused every one opening a womb to pass over to Jehovah, and every firstling--the increase of beasts which thou hast: the males are Jehovah's.
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Study This Verse
Commentary on Exodus 13 verses 11–16
11 ¶ And it shall be when the LORD shall bring thee into the land of the Canaanites, as he sware unto thee and to thy fathers, and shall give it thee,
12 That thou shalt set apart unto the LORD all that openeth the matrix, and every firstling that cometh of a beast which thou hast; the males shall be the LORD'S.
13 And every firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then thou shalt break his neck: and all the firstborn of man among thy children shalt thou redeem.
14 And it shall be when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What is this? that thou shalt say unto him, By strength of hand the LORD brought us out from Egypt, from the house of bondage:
15 And it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that the LORD slew all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast: therefore I sacrifice to the LORD all that openeth the matrix, being males; but all the firstborn of my children I redeem.
16 And it shall be for a token upon thine hand, and for frontlets between thine eyes: for by strength of hand the LORD brought us forth out of Egypt.
Here we have,
I. Further directions concerning the dedicating of their firstborn to God. 1. The firstlings of their cattle were to be dedicated to God, as part of their possessions. Those of clean beasts - calves, lambs, and kids - if males, were to be sacrificed, Exo 22:30; Num 18:17, Num 18:18. Those of unclean beasts, as colts, were to be redeemed with a lamb, or knocked on the head. For whatsoever is unclean (as we all are by nature), if it be not redeemed, will be destroyed, Exo 13:11, Exo 13:13. 2. The firstborn of their children were to be redeemed, and by no means sacrificed, as the Gentiles sacrificed their children to Moloch. The price of the redemption of the firstborn was fixed by the law (Num 18:16) at five sheckles. We were all obnoxious to the wrath and curse of God; by the blood of Christ we are redeemed, that we may be joined to the church of the firstborn. They were to redeem their children, as well as the firstlings of the unclean beasts, for our children are by nature polluted. Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean?
II. Further directions concerning the catechising of their children, and all those of the rising generation, from time to time, in this matter. It is supposed that, when they saw all the firstlings thus devoted, they would ask the meaning of it, and their parents and teachers must tell them (Exo 13:14-16) that God's special propriety in their firstborn, and all their firstlings, was founded in his special preservation of them from the sword of the destroying angel. Being thus delivered, they must serve him. Note, 1. Children should be directed and encouraged to ask their parents questions concerning the things of God, a practice which would be perhaps of all others the most profitable way of catechising; and parents must furnish themselves with useful knowledge, that they may be ready always to give an answer to their enquiries. If ever the knowledge of God cover the earth, as the waters do the sea, the fountains of family-instruction must first be broken up. 2. We should all be able to show cause for what we do in religion. As sacraments are sanctified by the word, so they must be explained and understood by it. God's service is reasonable, and it is then acceptable when we perform it intelligently, knowing what we do and why we do it. 3. It must be observed how often it is said in this chapter that by strength of hand (Exo 13:3, Exo 13:14, Exo 13:16), with a strong hand (Exo 13:9), the Lord brought them out of Egypt. The more opposition is given to the accomplishment of God's purposes the more is his power magnified therein. It is a strong hand that conquers hard hearts. Sometimes God is said to work deliverance not by might nor power (Zac 4:6), not by such visible displays of his power as that recorded here. 4. Their posterity that should be born in Canaan are directed to say, The Lord brought us out of Egypt, Exo 13:14, Exo 13:16. Mercies to our fathers are mercies to us; we reap the benefit of them, and therefore must keep up a grateful remembrance of them. We stand upon the bottom of former deliverances, and were in the loins of our ancestors when they were delivered. Much more reason have we to say that in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ we were redeemed.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 11–16. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Exodus 13:12 establishes a perpetual divine command for the Israelites: to consecrate every firstborn male, whether human or animal, to the LORD. This directive serves as a tangible and enduring memorial of God's mighty redemptive act in delivering Israel from Egyptian bondage, specifically by sparing their firstborn during the climactic tenth plague. It underscores God's unique ownership and sovereign claim over those He redeemed, compelling His people to acknowledge His preeminence and dedicate their "first and best" to Him in all aspects of life.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Exodus 13:12 outlines a specific command regarding the dedication of firstborns, emphasizing God's ownership and Israel's perpetual remembrance of His redemptive work.
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs repetition through phrases like "all that openeth the matrix" and "every firstling," which serves to emphasize the comprehensive and universal nature of the command, leaving no ambiguity about its scope. The direct, declarative tone, characteristic of legal and covenantal texts, functions as a divine pronouncement or legal imperative, underscoring the non-negotiable nature of God's claim. Furthermore, the command itself acts as a memorial, a tangible and continuous reminder of the Exodus event, ensuring that the act of redemption is perpetually ingrained in the nation's consciousness.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 13:12 is rich with theological significance, revealing profound truths about God and His relationship with humanity, particularly concerning His sovereign rights and the nature of Israel's redemption. This command is not merely an arbitrary ritual but a foundational declaration of God's ultimate ownership over all life, especially that which He has redeemed. By claiming the firstborn, God asserts His sovereign right over the very source of life and prosperity, establishing a principle that extends beyond the literal firstborn to encompass all of creation and every aspect of human existence. It serves as a perpetual memorial, ensuring that Israel never forgets their miraculous deliverance from slavery and the immense cost of their freedom, reminding them that their very identity as a free people is a direct result of God's powerful intervention and mercy.
Cross-References:
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the literal practice of dedicating animal firstlings as prescribed in the Mosaic Law is not observed by most believers today, the underlying theological principles of Exodus 13:12 remain profoundly relevant for contemporary faith and life. This verse challenges us to move beyond mere ritual and deeply consider what "firsts" we truly dedicate to God in our lives. It's not just about the firstborn animal, but about giving God our "first and best"—our first thoughts in the morning, our prime time and energy, our initial income through tithes and offerings, and our most dedicated efforts in work and service. It calls for a life lived with God as the absolute priority, not an afterthought or a secondary consideration, fostering a kingdom-first mindset in every decision. Just as the Israelites were to perpetually remember their physical deliverance from Egypt, Christians are called to live in constant, grateful remembrance of their spiritual redemption through Jesus Christ. Every act of dedication, every conscious choice to prioritize God, becomes a tangible expression of profound gratitude for the salvation we have received, reminding us that we are not our own, but have been bought with an immeasurable price (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). The command to dedicate the firstborn serves as a powerful reminder that everything we have—our very lives, our unique talents, our material resources, our children, our future—ultimately belongs to God. This perspective fosters deep humility, overflowing gratitude, and a diligent stewardship mindset, encouraging us to faithfully use all that we possess for His glory and eternal purposes.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did God specifically claim the "males" among the firstborn?
Answer: The emphasis on males aligns with the patriarchal structure of ancient Israelite society and the established sacrificial system. Male animals were typically preferred for offerings and sacrifices, symbolizing strength, purity, and the perpetuation of the line. For human firstborns, while they were indeed "set apart" to the LORD, they were not sacrificed but rather redeemed through a payment or by being replaced by the Levites, as detailed in Exodus 13:13 and Numbers 3:11-13. This distinction ensured the continuity of the family line while still unequivocally acknowledging God's ultimate claim and ownership.
Is this command about dedicating firstborn animals still practiced by believers today?
Answer: The literal practice of dedicating animal firstlings as prescribed in the Mosaic Law is generally not observed by Christians today, as the Old Testament sacrificial system found its ultimate fulfillment and completion in the person and work of Jesus Christ. However, the profound underlying principles of prioritizing God, acknowledging His absolute ownership over all things, and living in constant remembrance of His redemptive acts remain profoundly relevant for believers. Christians are called to dedicate their entire lives, their resources, and their "firstfruits" (meaning the best of what they have) to God in worship, service, and generosity, as a spiritual act of consecration and gratitude.
Does "openeth the matrix" imply that only the very first offspring of a mother is claimed, not necessarily the firstborn of the father?
Answer: Yes, the Hebrew phrase peter rechem (פֶּטֶר רֶחֶם), literally meaning "that which opens the womb," specifically refers to the initial offspring from a particular female. This emphasizes the very first birth event for that specific mother, regardless of whether the father might have had older children with other wives. God's command here focuses on the very first life that comes forth from the womb, signifying the initial fertility and life that God graciously grants, thus asserting His claim over the beginning of all life and increase.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 13:12 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest theological meaning in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The New Testament repeatedly refers to Jesus as the "firstborn" in various profound senses, revealing Him as the one to whom all these Old Testament shadows pointed. He is described as the "firstborn of all creation" in Colossians 1:15, signifying His preeminence, sovereignty, and priority over all things, rather than implying His creation. Furthermore, He is the "firstborn from the dead" in Colossians 1:18, being the very first to rise from the grave with a glorified, resurrected body, thereby guaranteeing the resurrection for all who place their faith in Him. In these profound ways, Jesus embodies the very "first" and "best" that is consecrated to God, not by human command or ritual, but by His divine nature and His singular redemptive purpose. The law of the firstborn in Exodus 13:12, with its requirement for redemption, especially for human firstborns and unclean animals, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and perfect redemption provided by Jesus. Just as the blood of the Passover lamb saved the firstborn of Israel from death, Jesus, uniquely identified as "our Passover lamb" in 1 Corinthians 5:7, shed His own precious blood to redeem humanity from the bondage of sin and eternal death. He is the perfect "firstborn" sacrifice, the one who truly "opened the womb" of new creation through His victorious resurrection, making a way for all who believe to be consecrated and brought into a holy relationship with God Hebrews 9:22. Through union with Christ, believers become part of a "new creation" 2 Corinthians 5:17, spiritually "born again" John 3:3. As those redeemed by the ultimate Firstborn, we are now called to live consecrated lives, set apart for God's purposes. The enduring principle of dedicating the "first and best" finds its spiritual application in offering our entire lives—our bodies as living sacrifices Romans 12:1, our talents, our time, and our resources—to the One who bought us with His own precious blood, for His glory and kingdom.