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Author |
Moses |
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Date |
Between 1450 and 1400 BC |
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Time Span |
Approximately 431 years (the period of time from the arrival of Jacob in Egypt to the construction of the Tabernacle in the wilderness). |
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Title |
The word "exodus" means "exit" or "departure." Named for the central event of Israel's Exodus from Egyptian Bondage |
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Background |
The second book of the Pentateuch, Exodus, is a continuation of the story in the book of Genesis. Only 70 descendants of Joseph journeyed to Egypt, but after increasing abundantly in number they became oppressed as slaves to Egyptian leaders who did not remember Joseph. During the preceding 4 centuries the people have grown to a nation of some 3 million before their Exodus from Egypt begins. |
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Where |
The general belief is that Moses received this revelation while on Mt. Sinai in the wilderness. |
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To Whom |
Exodus was written for the Israelites, but the messages contained herein are timeless . . . as God brings Israel from Egypt into the land of promise we see a beautiful picture of God's care for His people. |
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Content |
Exodus begins with the descendants of Jacob living in slavery to the Egyptians. Moses is called and directed by God to lead the Israelites out of this bondage. Israel is finally permitted to leave Egypt after God directs Moses to pronounce a series of plagues upon Egypt and the Pharaoh. The Passover is instituted, emphasizing that blood redemption is always necessary, and the resulting Covenant between God and the Israelites identifies them as God's Chosen People. God then delivers Israel miraculously through the Red Sea. At Mt. Sinai God gives the Ten Commandments, but later has to judge the people for their apostasy and worship of the golden calf. A few months after this, the Tabernacle is constructed. |
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Themes |
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Key |
"Deliverance"; "Redemption"; "Commandments." The "deliverance" of the nation of Israel from their oppression as slaves is just one of the many miraculous acts performed by God for the complete "redemption" of His Chosen People. The Ten "Commandments" and other laws give the people the instruction needed to live as God desires. |
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