King James Version

What Does Exodus 12:40 Mean?

“Now the sojourning of the children of Israel, who dwelt in Egypt, was four hundred and thirty years.”

Context

And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle. a mixed: Heb. a great mixture

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.

Now the sojourning of the children of Israel, who dwelt in Egypt, was four hundred and thirty years.

And it came to pass at the end of the four hundred and thirty years, even the selfsame day it came to pass, that all the hosts of the LORD went out from the land of Egypt.

It is a night to be much observed unto the LORD for bringing them out from the land of Egypt: this is that night of the LORD to be observed of all the children of Israel in their generations. a night: Heb. a night of observations

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(40) **The sojourning of the children of Israel, who dwelt in Egypt.**—Heb., *which they sojourned in Egypt* **Was four hundred and thirty years.**—Comp. the prophecy:—“Thy seed shall be a stranger in *a land* that is not theirs [Egypt, not Canaan], and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them *four hundred years* and also *that nation* whom they shall serve will I judge” (Genesis 15:13-14). The genealogy of Joshua (1Chronicles 7:22-27), which places him in the eleventh generation from Jacob, accords well with this term of years. The other genealogies are more or less abbreviated.

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 12:40 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.