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Book of Exodus - Chapter 3 - Verse 17

3:17
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.

Meaning

God's promise to bring the Israelites out of Egypt and into the land of Canaan is a significant moment in the Bible. Egypt symbolizes bondage and affliction, while Canaan represents the promised land flowing with milk and honey. The Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites are the indigenous tribes living in Canaan at the time. The phrase "land flowing with milk and honey" is often used throughout the Bible to describe a prosperous and abundant land. It signifies a place of fertility, abundance, and blessings. This promise from God shows His faithfulness to His people and His desire to lead them to a place of blessing and prosperity. This verse emphasizes God's power and sovereignty in fulfilling His promises to His chosen people.

Theological Overview

Throughout the Old Testament, the concept of the Promised Land is a central theme that symbolizes God's faithfulness and provision for His people. In this verse, God promises to bring the Israelites out of the affliction of Egypt and into a land overflowing with abundance - a land flowing with milk and honey. The mention of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites underscores the diversity of the inhabitants of the land that God is giving to His chosen people. These various peoples represent the obstacles and challenges that the Israelites will need to overcome in order to possess the Promised Land. This verse highlights the sovereignty of God in fulfilling His promises and His ability to lead His people through trials into a place of promise and blessing. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes God's faithfulness, provision, and sovereignty in guiding His people to their ultimate destination, which extends beyond physical territory to the spiritual inheritance awaiting believers.

American Standard Version

and I have said, I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt unto the land of the Canaanite, and the Hittite, and the Amorite, and the Perizzite, and the Hivite, and the Jebusite, unto a land flowing with milk and honey.
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