Book of Exodus - Chapter 12 - Verse 43

In this verse, the LORD is instructing Moses and Aaron on the ordinance of the Passover, a sacred feast commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The Passover was a significant event in Jewish history, symbolizing liberation and freedom. By stating that no stranger should eat of the Passover, the LORD is emphasizing the exclusivity of this ritual to the Israelites. This restriction served as a way to maintain the sanctity of the Passover meal and reinforce the bond between the chosen people and their God. It was a reminder that the Passover was a unique and special celebration reserved for those who had a covenant relationship with the LORD. This verse highlights the importance of obedience and adherence to divine guidelines in religious practices, ensuring that the Passover tradition was passed down through generations with reverence and respect.

In this verse, the theological interpretation revolves around the significance of the Passover feast as a ritual that symbolizes the relationship between God and His chosen people, the Israelites. The directive that only the Israelites are to partake in the Passover meal highlights the exclusive covenant that God has with His people. This ordinance serves as a reminder of the unique bond between God and the nation of Israel, emphasizing their special status as the chosen people of God. The word "stranger" in this context refers to non-Israelites or foreigners who are not part of the covenant relationship with God. This restriction underscores the idea that the Passover feast is a sacred ritual reserved for those who are part of the community of believers. It reminds the Israelites of their identity and heritage as God's chosen people, distinct from other nations. Through this ordinance, God reinforces the importance of faithfulness and loyalty to Him, as symbolized by the observance of the Passover feast.