King James Version
What Does Exodus 12:38 Mean?
“And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle. a mixed: Heb. a great mixture”
Context
36
And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they lent unto them such things as they required. And they spoiled the Egyptians.
37
And the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand on foot that were men, beside children.
38
And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle. a mixed: Heb. a great mixture
39
And they baked unleavened cakes of the dough which they brought forth out of Egypt, for it was not leavened; because they were thrust out of Egypt, and could not tarry, neither had they prepared for themselves any victual.
40
Now the sojourning of the children of Israel, who dwelt in Egypt, was four hundred and thirty years.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(38) **A mixed multitude went up also with them.**—Nothing is told us of the component elements of this “mixed multitude.” We hear of them as “murmuring” in Numbers 11:4, so that they seem to have remained with Israel. Some may have been Egyptians, impressed by the recent miracles; some foreigners held to servitude, like the Israelites, and glad to escape from their masters. It is noticeable that the Egyptian writers, in their perverted accounts of the Exodus, made a multitude of foreigners (Hyksôs) take part with the Hebrews.
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 12:38 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Exodus 12:38
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge