Old Testament
Exodus 3:17
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And I have said, I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt to the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites—a land flowing with milk and honey.
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And I have said, I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt unto the land of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, unto a land flowing with milk and honey.
What Exodus 3:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is speaking to Moses, assuring him that He will rescue the Israelites from their suffering in Egypt. God promises to lead them to a new land, rich and abundant, filled with resources and opportunities. This land, described as flowing with milk and honey, symbolizes prosperity and a fresh start. The mention of various groups living there highlights the challenges ahead, but also the richness of the land. God’s promise is not just about physical freedom; it’s about a new life filled with hope and abundance. This message resonates with anyone who feels trapped in difficult circumstances, reminding us that change is possible. God’s commitment to His people shows that He cares deeply about their well-being and future. It encourages us to trust in a better tomorrow, even when the present feels overwhelming. The journey may be tough, but the destination is worth it, filled with blessings and new beginnings that await us if we have faith and perseverance.
How to apply Exodus 3:17 to your life
When facing tough times, remember that change is possible. Just as God promised a better future for the Israelites, He offers hope for us too. Trust in the journey ahead, and look for the blessings that await you. Keep faith alive, even in difficult moments, and seek the abundance that life can offer you. Embrace new beginnings with courage and optimism.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Burning Bush (Exodus 3:1–22)
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Moses
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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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 3:17 mean?
Exodus 3:17 conveys God's promise to Moses that He will rescue the Israelites from their suffering in Egypt and lead them to a prosperous land, symbolizing hope and a new beginning.
What is the significance of the land flowing with milk and honey in Exodus 3:17?
The phrase 'flowing with milk and honey' in Exodus 3:17 symbolizes abundance and prosperity, indicating that the land is rich in resources and opportunities for the Israelites.
What does God promise in Exodus 3:17?
In Exodus 3:17, God promises to bring the Israelites out of their affliction in Egypt and lead them to a new land inhabited by various groups, highlighting both the challenges and the richness of their future.
How does Exodus 3:17 relate to hope and new beginnings?
Exodus 3:17 illustrates the theme of hope and new beginnings by showing God's commitment to freeing the Israelites from oppression and leading them to a better future filled with abundance.
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