Exodus 12:5 (KJV)

What does Exodus 12:5 mean?

Exodus 12:5 says that each household must choose a young male lamb or goat, one year old and without any defect, for the Passover sacrifice. The animal could be taken from either the sheep or the goats, but it had to be perfect and healthy.

God is speaking to Moses and Aaron, giving instructions to the Israelites as they prepare for the first Passover in Egypt. The requirement for a "lamb without blemish" sets a high standard, showing that only the best and most unblemished animal is acceptable for this important event. This verse is part of detailed directions meant to prepare the people for their deliverance from slavery.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 12:5

• "lamb" (שֶׂה, seh): This word can refer to either a young sheep or goat, which explains why the verse allows for either animal.
• "blemish" (תָּמִים, tamim): This means "without defect" or "whole," emphasizing that the animal must be healthy and uninjured, not just any lamb or goat.
• "male" (זָכָר, zakhar): The instruction specifies a male animal, which was often considered more valuable in ancient sacrificial practices.
• "first year" (בֶּן־שָׁנָה, ben-shanah): This phrase means the animal must be one year old, still young and in its prime, not yet fully mature.

Why Exodus 12:5 matters

• Exodus 12:5 clarifies that the Passover sacrifice required the very best animal, not just any available one, highlighting the seriousness and respect due to this act of worship.
• The allowance for either sheep or goats shows some flexibility in the command, making it possible for more families to participate regardless of which animals they owned.
• This verse sets the stage for the rest of the Passover instructions, showing that careful obedience to God’s details was central to the Israelites’ deliverance.