Old Testament
Exodus 12:31
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That night Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, "Get up! Get out from among my people — you and all the Israelites! Go and serve the LORD, just as you demanded.
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And he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, Rise up, and get you forth from among my people, both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve the LORD, as ye have said.
What Exodus 12:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, finally acknowledges the power of God as he calls for Moses and Aaron. He tells them to leave with the Israelites, urging them to go and worship the Lord as they had requested. This command comes after a series of plagues that demonstrated God's might and Pharaoh's stubbornness. The urgency in Pharaoh's voice reflects his desperation to rid himself of the Israelites, who had been a source of suffering for him and his people. This pivotal moment marks a significant turning point in the story of the Israelites' liberation from slavery. It shows that even the most powerful can be humbled by divine intervention. Pharaoh's change of heart, though late, opens the door for the Israelites to finally pursue their freedom and fulfill their purpose of serving God. This event is a reminder that liberation often comes after struggle and that faith can lead to significant change in our lives and circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of listening to God's call and acting upon it.
How to apply Exodus 12:31 to your life
When faced with challenges, remember that change is possible, even when it seems unlikely. Trust in your faith and be open to new beginnings. Just as the Israelites were called to serve, consider how you can respond to your own calling in life. Embrace the journey ahead with courage and determination. Your actions can lead to transformation and freedom in your life and the lives of others.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Leaves Egypt (Exodus 12:29–42)
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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.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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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 12:31 mean?
Exodus 12:31 describes Pharaoh's command to Moses and Aaron to leave Egypt with the Israelites. This moment signifies Pharaoh's acknowledgment of God's power after enduring the plagues, marking a crucial step in the Israelites' journey to freedom.
What is the significance of Pharaoh's command in Exodus 12:31?
Pharaoh's command in Exodus 12:31 is significant because it represents a turning point in the Exodus story. It shows that even a powerful ruler can be compelled to change by divine intervention, allowing the Israelites to finally pursue their freedom.
What does 'serve the LORD' mean in Exodus 12:31?
In Exodus 12:31, 'serve the LORD' refers to the Israelites being called to worship and fulfill their covenant with God. This command emphasizes the importance of their relationship with God and their purpose as His chosen people.
What is the context of Exodus 12:31?
The context of Exodus 12:31 is the aftermath of the ten plagues that God sent upon Egypt. After suffering significant losses, Pharaoh finally relents and orders Moses and Aaron to take the Israelites and leave, highlighting the urgency of their liberation.
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