Exodus 12:35 (KJV)

What does Exodus 12:35 mean?

Exodus 12:35 describes how the Israelites followed Moses’ instructions and asked the Egyptians for valuable items such as silver, gold, and clothing before leaving Egypt. The verse shows that the Israelites did not leave empty-handed but took goods from the Egyptians as they prepared for their departure.

In the story, Moses is leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt after a series of plagues. God had told Moses to instruct the people to ask their Egyptian neighbors for valuables, and the Egyptians, eager for the Israelites to leave after the plagues, gave them these items. This act fulfilled God’s earlier promise that the Israelites would leave Egypt with wealth.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 12:35

• The word for "borrowed" is שָׁאַל (sha'al), which more accurately means "asked" or "requested." This suggests the Israelites were not intending to return the items, but were requesting them as part of their departure.
• The word for "jewels" is כְּלִי (kli), which can mean "vessels," "articles," or "objects," not just jewelry. This broadens the sense to include valuable items of various kinds, not only personal adornments.
• The word for "raiment" is שִׂמְלָה (simlah), meaning "garment" or "clothing." This shows that clothing was considered a valuable possession, not just precious metals.

Why Exodus 12:35 matters

• This verse clarifies that the Israelites did not steal from the Egyptians but asked for these items, and the Egyptians willingly gave them, likely out of fear or respect after the plagues.
• The verse fulfills God’s promise in earlier chapters that the Israelites would not leave Egypt empty-handed but would be given wealth by the Egyptians.
• Understanding the original words helps clear up the misconception that the Israelites "borrowed" with the intent to return; the Hebrew suggests a one-time request as part of their liberation.