Definition: And thus shall ye eat it; [with] your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it [is] the LORDâS passover.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 12:11. It's a really important passage about how God wants to provide for his people after they’ve been enslaved by the Egyptians. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: What it’s saying: God is telling the Israelites (the people he had chosen) that they are going to have a special meal – Passover – and they need to prepare for it in a very specific way. It's a command from God, and it’s about showing his love and care for them. Let’s unpack each part: “And thus shall ye eat it;” - This means that the Israelites are going to have this Passover meal as a regular part of their life. It’s not just a one-time event. “[with] your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand.” – This is where it gets a little more symbolic. It's like preparing for a big battle or an important event. Loins girded: This means they need to be ready and strong - physically prepared. Shoes on your feet: This signifies being ready, equipped, and focused – having the right mindset. Staff in your hand: This is a symbol of guidance and leadership from God. It represents that God will protect them. “and ye shall eat it in haste: it [is] the LORDâS passover.” - This is the really important part! The verse says, “Eat it in haste; it is the Lord’s Passover.” “in haste” : This means they need to eat it quickly and without delay. It's a special moment of celebration and remembrance. “it is the LORDâS passover.” - This is a direct command from God. He is saying that this Passover meal is his special offering – a reminder of his love and protection for his people. In essence, it’s a promise of blessings and safety. It's a way for the Israelites to show their gratitude to God for freeing them and to celebrate his deliverance from slavery. It’s a moment of remembrance and joy, but also a moment of preparation for a significant event in their history. Why is this important? This verse is a cornerstone of Jewish tradition and has deep significance throughout the Bible. It's a story about God's love, liberation, and faithfulness to his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this passage to other stories or events in the Bible?