Exodus 12:26 (KJV)

What does Exodus 12:26 mean?

Exodus 12:26 anticipates a time when Israelite children will see their families keep the Passover and ask what the ceremony means. Moses prepares the adults to explain why their people observe it, linking a family’s actions to the story of their people’s rescue from Egypt.

Moses is speaking to the elders of Israel as he gives instructions for the Passover. The question follows the direction to keep the practice when the people enter the land they have been promised, in verse 25. The KJV’s “What mean ye” is an old way of asking, “What does this mean to you?”

The Hebrew behind Exodus 12:26

• “children” — בָּנִים (banim): The word can mean “sons,” but can also refer more broadly to children or descendants. Here the KJV presents the question as coming from the children of the community.
• “service” — עֲבֹדָה (avodah): The word can refer to work or service, including an act of worship. Here it describes the Passover observance as a service carried out by the people.

Why Exodus 12:26 matters

• The question concerns a practice the children can see, not just a story they have heard. “This service” points to the Passover observance being kept by their families.
• The answer gives the ceremony a specific historical meaning. In verse 27, the adults are to speak of the Lord passing over Israelite homes in Egypt while striking the Egyptians.
• The children’s question is expected as part of the observance. Moses gives the adults an answer to carry forward when the next generation asks about their actions.