The command for Israel to depart from Egypt is a pivotal moment in biblical history, marking the transition from slavery to freedom and the beginning of the nation of Israel's journey to the Promised Land. This event is primarily recorded in the Book of Exodus, where God, through Moses, leads the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage.

Context and Background

The Israelites had been living in Egypt for several centuries, initially settling there during the time of Joseph. Over time, they became enslaved by the Egyptians, who feared their growing numbers and potential power. The LORD heard the cries of His people and remembered His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 2:24). He chose Moses to be His instrument of deliverance, appearing to him in the form of a burning bush and commissioning him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10).

The Command to Depart

The command for Israel to depart is given after a series of divine interventions known as the Ten Plagues, which demonstrated the LORD's power over the gods of Egypt and Pharaoh's resistance. The final plague, the death of the firstborn, was the catalyst for Pharaoh's decision to release the Israelites. In Exodus 12:31-32 , Pharaoh summons Moses and Aaron by night and says, "Get up, leave my people, both you and the Israelites! Go, worship the LORD as you have requested. Take your flocks and herds as well, just as you have said, and depart! And bless me also."

The Passover and Departure

Before their departure, the LORD institutes the Passover, a lasting ordinance for the Israelites to commemorate their deliverance. The Passover lamb, whose blood marked the doorposts of the Israelite homes, spared them from the plague of the firstborn (Exodus 12:13). This event is a foreshadowing of Christ, the Lamb of God, whose sacrifice delivers believers from sin and death.

The Israelites leave Egypt in haste, taking with them the wealth of the Egyptians, as the LORD had instructed them to ask for articles of silver and gold (Exodus 12:35-36). This plundering of the Egyptians fulfills God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would leave their place of bondage with great possessions (Genesis 15:14).

The Journey Begins

The departure from Egypt marks the beginning of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. The LORD leads them by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, guiding them through the wilderness (Exodus 13:21-22). This divine guidance signifies God's continual presence and protection over His people.

The crossing of the Red Sea is a defining moment in this journey, where the LORD miraculously parts the waters, allowing the Israelites to pass through on dry ground while the pursuing Egyptian army is drowned (Exodus 14:21-28). This act of deliverance is celebrated in the Song of Moses, a hymn of praise to the LORD for His mighty salvation (Exodus 15:1-18).

Significance in Biblical Theology

The command for Israel to depart from Egypt is not merely a historical event but a foundational narrative in biblical theology. It establishes the LORD as the Redeemer of His people, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture. The Exodus is frequently referenced by the prophets and in the Psalms as a testament to God's faithfulness and power.

Moreover, the departure from Egypt is a typological foreshadowing of the greater redemption accomplished through Jesus Christ. Just as the Israelites were delivered from physical bondage, believers are delivered from spiritual bondage through the death and resurrection of Christ. The Exodus narrative thus serves as a paradigm of salvation, illustrating God's plan of redemption for humanity.