Book of Exodus - Chapter 12 - Verse 35

After the plagues inflicted on Egypt by God through Moses, the Egyptians were eager to have the Israelites leave their land. In their haste, the Israelites were able to take valuables from the Egyptians as they departed. This act of borrowing served as a form of restitution for the years of slavery the Israelites endured under Egyptian rule. The jewels of silver, jewels of gold, and raiment they borrowed not only symbolized compensation for their suffering but were also necessary provisions for their journey ahead. These items would later be used in constructing the Tabernacle, a sacred place of worship for the Israelites as they continued their journey to the Promised Land. The willingness of the Egyptians to part with their valuables highlights the desperation they felt to be rid of the Israelites and the favor of God upon His people, ensuring they were provided for as they embarked on their journey to freedom.

In this verse from the book of Exodus, we see the children of Israel obeying the word of their leader, Moses. By borrowing jewels of silver, jewels of gold, and raiment from the Egyptians, the Israelites were essentially following God's instruction to spoil the Egyptians before their departure from the land. The theological interpretation of this act revolves around the concept of divine retribution and providence. The Israelites, who had been enslaved and oppressed by the Egyptians for generations, were now experiencing restitution for their suffering. The act of borrowing these precious items can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the Israelites' future prosperity and abundance as they journey towards the Promised Land. Furthermore, a word study on the term "borrowed" in this verse reveals that the original Hebrew word used can also be translated as "asked" or "requested," indicating that the Israelites were not simply taking these items by force, but were granted them through a form of compensation for their years of bondage. Overall, this verse provides a deeper insight into the complexities of divine justice and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.