Book of Exodus - Chapter 12 - Verse 45

In this verse from the book of Exodus, the phrase "A foreigner and a hired servant shall not eat thereof" refers to the Passover sacrifice. The Passover sacrifice was a ritual performed by the Israelites to commemorate their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. It was a symbol of God's protection and provision for His people. According to Jewish law, only those who were part of the covenant community could participate in the Passover feast. The foreigner and hired servant mentioned in the verse represent those who were not part of the covenant community and therefore were not allowed to partake in the Passover sacrifice. This verse serves as a reminder of the special relationship that God had with His chosen people and the importance of being part of the covenant community. It also emphasizes the need for obedience to God's commandments and the significance of participating in rituals that symbolize His faithfulness and deliverance.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "A foreigner and an hired servant shall not eat thereof," we can see a distinction being made between those who are considered part of the community and those who are considered outsiders. In the context of this verse, the act of eating together was a symbol of fellowship and shared identity. By prohibiting foreigners and hired servants from eating of certain food, the verse may be emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity and exclusivity within the community of believers. It may also be indicating that there are certain privileges and responsibilities that come with being a part of the community of faith. In terms of word studies, the term "foreigner" could refer to someone who is not a member of the covenant people, while "hired servant" could denote someone who is not a permanent member of the household. Understanding these cultural and social dynamics can provide deeper insight into the meaning and significance of the verse in its original context.