Exodus 34:20

French (La Sainte Bible par Louis Segond 1910)

Tu rachèteras avec un agneau le premier-né de l'âne; et si tu ne le rachètes pas, tu lui briseras la nuque. Tu rachèteras tout premier-né de tes fils; et l'on ne se présentera point à vide devant ma face.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Exodus says that the firstborn of an ass must be redeemed with a lamb or have its neck broken. All firstborn sons must also be redeemed. This was a command from God, emphasizing the importance of offerings and the practice of redemption in the covenant community.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a new pet, and it's your first pet ever. God says that when you get your first pet, you have to do something special, like give a gift to say thanks. If you can't give a gift, you have to let the pet go. The same goes for your first child, who needs to be specially blessed.

Historical Background

This text was written by Moses around 1446 BCE, detailing laws for the Israelites. The Israelites were to follow these laws as a way of showing their dedication to God and their participation in the covenant relationship. The practice of redeeming firstborn animals and children was common in ancient Near Eastern cultures.

Living It Out Today

In modern terms, this verse can be seen as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging the special nature of beginnings and new things in our lives. Just as the firstborn animals and children were to be specially treated, we can consider how we give thanks or offer something special for new opportunities or roles in our lives.

Topics

• sacrifice
• redemption
• covenant
• firstborn
• offerings
• dedication

Related Verses

• Exodus 13:12-15
• Numbers 18:15-18
• Leviticus 27:26
• Luke 2:22-24
• Exodus 12:1-14

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the verse mention redeeming an ass with a lamb?

The ass is not considered a clean animal and cannot be offered as a sacrifice, so it must be redeemed with a clean animal, like a lamb, to fulfill the obligation of consecration to God.

What is the significance of redeeming the firstborn sons?

Redeeming the firstborn sons was a way of acknowledging God's role in protecting the Israelites during the Passover. It symbolized the dedication of the family to God.

Why must the neck of the ass be broken if not redeemed?

Breaking the neck of the ass is a severe consequence for not fulfilling the redemption requirement, emphasizing the seriousness of this commandment and the importance of following God’s laws.

How does Exodus 34:20 relate to the concept of sacrifice in the Bible?

This verse highlights the practice of sacrifice as a way of consecrating and dedicating to God what is firstborn or special, which is a central theme throughout the Bible, including in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.