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Book of Exodus - Chapter 12 - Verse 22

12:22
And ye shall take a bunch of hyssop, and dip it in the blood that is in the basin, and strike the lintel and the two side posts with the blood that is in the basin; and none of you shall go out at the door of his house until the morning.

Meaning

During the Passover in Egypt, God commanded the Israelites to take a bunch of hyssop, dip it in the blood of a sacrificed lamb, and use it to mark the lintel and side posts of their doors. This act served as a sign of protection, as the blood would distinguish their homes from the others, leading the angel of death to pass over them. By obeying this command, the Israelites showed their faith and trust in God's promise of deliverance from the plague. The instruction to stay indoors until morning further emphasized the importance of following God's instructions completely and without deviation. This act of faith and obedience foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, whose blood provides salvation and protection for all who believe.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from Exodus 12:22 relates to the symbolism of the blood of the sacrificed lamb being used as a protective mark on the doorposts of the Israelites' homes during the Passover. This act represents the importance of faith and obedience in following God's instructions for salvation and protection. The use of hyssop in this ritual also holds significance, as hyssop was a symbol of purification and cleansing in ancient Jewish culture. By dipping the hyssop in the blood and using it to mark the doorposts, the Israelites were not only physically protecting themselves from the tenth plague but also spiritually aligning themselves with God's plan for their deliverance. This act of faith foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood brings salvation and protection to all who believe in him.

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