King James Version

What Does Exodus 12:21 Mean?

“Then Moses called for all the elders of Israel, and said unto them, Draw out and take you a lamb according to your families, and kill the passover. lamb: or, kid”

Context

Seven days shall there be no leaven found in your houses: for whosoever eateth that which is leavened, even that soul shall be cut off from the congregation of Israel, whether he be a stranger, or born in the land.

Ye shall eat nothing leavened; in all your habitations shall ye eat unleavened bread.

Then Moses called for all the elders of Israel, and said unto them, Draw out and take you a lamb according to your families, and kill the passover. lamb: or, kid

And ye shall take a bunch of hyssop, and dip it in the blood that is in the bason, and strike the lintel and the two side posts with the blood that is in the bason; and none of you shall go out at the door of his house until the morning.

For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when he seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

THE FIRST PASSOVER KEPT. (21) **Moses called for all the elders.**—He had been directed to “speak unto all the congregation” (Exodus 12:3), but understood the direction as allowing him to do so *mediately,* through the elders. **Draw out.**—Some understand this intransitively—“Withdraw, and take,” *i.e., go,* and take; others transitively—“Withdraw a lamb from the flock.” **According to your families**—i.e., with reference to the number of your families, but not necessarily one for each. (See Exodus 12:4.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 12:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.