Exodus 10:26

Even our livestock must go with us; not a hoof will be left behind, for we will need some of them to worship the LORD our God, and we will not know how we are to worship the LORD until we arrive."

Study Bible

Our livestock must also go with us
This phrase emphasizes the totality of the Israelites' departure from Egypt. The Hebrew word for "livestock" (מִקְנֵנוּ, miqneinu) refers to possessions or property, indicating the wealth and sustenance of the people. In the ancient Near Eastern context, livestock was a sign of wealth and God's blessing. The insistence that all livestock must accompany them underscores the completeness of their liberation and the necessity of their resources for worship and survival.

not a hoof will be left behind
The phrase "not a hoof" (לֹא־תִשָּׁאֵר פַּרְסָה, lo-tishar parsah) is a hyperbolic expression indicating that nothing will be left in Egypt. The hoof, being the smallest part of an animal, symbolizes the thoroughness of their departure. This reflects the Israelites' determination to obey God's command fully and highlights the importance of complete obedience in the life of faith.

We must use some of them to worship the LORD our God
The Hebrew word for "worship" (לַעֲבֹד, la'avod) can also mean "to serve." This dual meaning reflects the holistic nature of worship in the Hebrew tradition, encompassing both ritual and daily life. The phrase underscores the necessity of the livestock for sacrificial offerings, which were central to Israelite worship. It also highlights the Israelites' commitment to worship God according to His instructions, even in the face of uncertainty.

and until we arrive
This phrase indicates a journey of faith. The Israelites are stepping out in obedience without knowing all the details of what lies ahead. It reflects the biblical theme of trusting God in the journey, reminiscent of Abraham's call to go to a land he did not know. The journey motif is central to the Exodus narrative, symbolizing the spiritual journey of faith and reliance on God's guidance.

we will not know what we need to worship the LORD
The uncertainty expressed here highlights the Israelites' dependence on God's revelation for proper worship. It underscores the principle that true worship is not based on human invention but on divine instruction. This dependence on God for guidance in worship reflects a heart posture of humility and submission, essential qualities in the life of a believer. The phrase also points to the unfolding nature of God's plan, which requires faith and trust in His timing and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egyptian bondage. He is the spokesperson to Pharaoh, demanding the release of the Israelites.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who is obstinate and refuses to let the Israelites go, despite the plagues that have afflicted his land.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, enslaved in Egypt, who are seeking freedom to worship the LORD as He commands.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, representing a place of bondage and opposition to God's will.

5. The Exodus
The event of the Israelites leaving Egypt, which is a pivotal moment in biblical history, symbolizing deliverance and God's faithfulness.

Teaching Points

Total Commitment to God
The Israelites' insistence on taking all their livestock signifies a total commitment to God. In our lives, we should hold nothing back from God, offering all we have in service and worship.

Faith in Uncertainty
The statement "until we arrive there, we will not know what we need to worship the LORD" reflects faith in God's guidance. We are called to trust God even when the path is unclear, believing He will provide what is necessary.

Worship as a Priority
The primary reason for the Exodus was to worship God. This underscores the importance of worship in our lives, reminding us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else.

God's Sovereignty and Provision
The demand to take all livestock highlights God's sovereignty and provision. He knows what we need and will equip us for His purposes.

Separation from the World
The Exodus represents a physical and spiritual separation from Egypt. As believers, we are called to be in the world but not of it, living distinct lives that honor God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the insistence on taking all the livestock reflect the Israelites' commitment to God, and how can we apply this principle of total commitment in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the uncertainty expressed in "until we arrive there, we will not know what we need to worship the LORD" challenge us to trust God in our own uncertain situations?

3. How does the priority of worship in the Exodus account influence our understanding of worship in the Christian life today?

4. What does the Exodus teach us about God's provision and how can we rely on His provision in our daily lives?

5. How can we, like the Israelites, separate ourselves from worldly influences while living in a world that often opposes God's will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15
God's covenant with Abraham, promising that his descendants would be strangers in a foreign land but would eventually be delivered.

Exodus 12
The Passover and the final plague, which leads to the release of the Israelites, fulfilling God's promise of deliverance.

Hebrews 11
The faith of Moses and the Israelites, highlighting their trust in God's promises despite the challenges they faced.

Romans 12
The call for believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the Israelites' need to worship God with their possessions.