King James Version
What Does Exodus 12:43 Mean?
“And the LORD said unto Moses and Aaron, This is the ordinance of the passover: There shall no stranger eat thereof:”
Context
41
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.
42
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
43
And the LORD said unto Moses and Aaron, This is the ordinance of the passover: There shall no stranger eat thereof:
44
But every man's servant that is bought for money, when thou hast circumcised him, then shall he eat thereof.
45
A foreigner and an hired servant shall not eat thereof.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English ReadersFURTHER DIRECTIONS RESPECTING THE PASSOVER.
(43-51) **This is the ordinance.**—These directions, together with those which follow with respect to the sanctification of the firstborn (Exodus 13:1-16), seem to have been given to Moses *at Succoth,* and were consequently recorded at this point of the narrative. They comprise three principal points:—(1) The exclusion of all uncircumcised persons from the Passover (Exodus 12:43); (2) the admission of all full proselytes (Exodus 12:48-49); and (3) the injunction that no bone of the lamb should be broken (Exodus 12:46).
(43) **No stranger.**—Comp, Exodus 12:48 for limitations. If a stranger wished to join, and would accept circumcision for himself and the males of his family, he might partake in the rite.
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 12:43 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 12:43
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge