What is the meaning of Exodus 12:5? Your lamb • Ownership is personal: “Your lamb” (Exodus 12:5) stresses that every household had to present its own sacrifice; no one could rely on a neighbor’s offering (cf. v. 3–4). • God teaches personal responsibility for sin and redemption (Jeremiah 31:29-30; Romans 14:12). • The definite article in later verses (“the lamb,” v. 6) points to the unique, once-for-all Lamb of God revealed in Jesus (John 1:29; Revelation 5:6). must be an unblemished • “An unblemished” animal demonstrates God’s demand for perfection (Leviticus 1:3; Malachi 1:8). • Physical soundness symbolizes moral purity; any defect would distort the picture of a flawless Redeemer (1 Peter 1:18-19; Hebrews 4:15). • The practical result: the people had to examine the animal carefully, foreshadowing the way Christ was scrutinized yet found innocent (Luke 23:4, 14). year-old male • A male in the first year was in the prime of life—vigorous, valuable, and full-grown (Leviticus 22:27). • This mirrors Jesus’ sacrifice at the height of His earthly ministry (Luke 3:23; John 10:17-18). • The stipulation reinforces that God’s provision is not second-rate; He gives His best (Romans 8:32). you may take it from the sheep or the goats • Both sheep and goats were acceptable herd animals in Israel, making obedience possible for every family regardless of wealth or flock composition (Deuteronomy 14:4). • The choice underscores accessibility: salvation is offered to all who will heed God’s word (Isaiah 45:22; Acts 10:34-35). • Later imagery distinguishes sheep and goats morally (Matthew 25:31-33), but at this point the focus is on a spotless substitute, not the species. summary Exodus 12:5 reveals God’s redemptive blueprint: each household presents its own flawless, prime-aged male animal—whether sheep or goat—to die in its place. The requirements point to Christ, the perfect, willingly offered Lamb, available to all and sufficient for each. |
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