Old Testament
Exodus 12:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then Moses summoned all the elders of Israel and told them, "Go, select lambs for your families, and slaughter the Passover lamb.
Compare translations
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.
What Exodus 12:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Moses gathers the leaders of Israel to give them important instructions. He tells them to choose lambs for their families, which is a significant act of preparation for the Passover. This event marks a pivotal point in their history, as they are about to be freed from slavery in Egypt. The lamb symbolizes sacrifice and protection, as its blood will be used to mark their doorposts. This act will ensure that the angel of death passes over their homes during the final plague. By following Moses' guidance, the elders are participating in a divine plan that will lead to their liberation. This moment emphasizes the importance of obedience and community in facing challenges. It also highlights the significance of sacrifice in achieving freedom and safety. The Passover lamb becomes a lasting symbol of hope and deliverance for generations to come, reminding them of their journey from bondage to freedom. Each family’s participation is crucial, as it unites them in faith and purpose.
How to apply Exodus 12:21 to your life
Consider how you can prepare for significant changes in your life. Just as the Israelites had to act together, think about how you can support your community. Reflect on the sacrifices you might need to make for your own freedom and safety. Remember, collective action can lead to powerful outcomes. Stay united in purpose and faith as you face challenges together.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The First Passover (Exodus 12:1–28)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Exodus 12:21
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Exodus 12:21
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 12:21 mean?
Exodus 12:21 describes Moses instructing the elders of Israel to select and sacrifice lambs for their families as part of the Passover preparation. This act symbolizes obedience to God's command and serves as a means of protection during the final plague in Egypt.
What is the significance of the Passover lamb in Exodus 12:21?
The Passover lamb in Exodus 12:21 represents sacrifice and protection. Its blood, when marked on the doorposts, signifies that the households will be spared from the angel of death, highlighting the themes of deliverance and faith.
How does Exodus 12:21 relate to community and faith?
Exodus 12:21 illustrates the collective responsibility of the Israelites as they prepare for Passover. By following Moses' guidance together, they demonstrate unity in faith and purpose, which is essential for their deliverance.
What lessons can we learn from Exodus 12:21?
From Exodus 12:21, we learn the importance of preparation, obedience, and community support during significant life changes. The verse encourages us to reflect on our own sacrifices for freedom and safety while staying united in purpose.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.