Exodus 13:13

"that you shall set apart to the LORD all that opens the womb, and every firstborn that comes from an animal which you have. The males shall be the LORD’s."

Key Reflection

This passage emphasizes the principle of separation and consecration, highlighting that the Israelites were to dedicate all their firstborn—both human and animal—to the Lord as a sign of their commitment to Him. It underscores the importance of acknowledging God’s sovereignty over life and the necessity of offering the best to Him in worship and obedience.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

An ass -The ass could not be offered in sacrifice, being an unclean animal: possibly the only unclean animal domesticated among the Israelites at the time of the Exodus. This principle was extended to every unclean beast; seeNumbers 18:15. Thou shalt redeem -The lamb, or sheep, was given to the priest for the service of the sanctuary. Firstborn of man -The price of redemption was fixed at five shekels of the sanctuary:Numbers 3:47, where see the note.

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