Exodus 11:5

and every firstborn son in the land of Egypt will die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sits on his throne, to the firstborn of the servant girl behind the hand mill, as well as the firstborn of all the cattle.

Study Bible

And every firstborn son
This phrase refers to the first male offspring in every Egyptian family, a position of great significance in ancient cultures. The Hebrew word for "firstborn" is "bekor," which denotes primacy and special status. In the context of ancient Egypt, the firstborn son was often seen as the heir and the one who would carry on the family lineage. This judgment against the firstborn was a direct challenge to the Egyptian belief system, which held the firstborn in high regard, and it demonstrated the sovereignty of the God of Israel over the gods of Egypt.

in the land of Egypt
This phrase situates the event geographically, emphasizing that the judgment was specific to Egypt, the land of the Israelites' oppression. Egypt, known as "Mitzrayim" in Hebrew, was a powerful and influential civilization. The plagues, culminating in this final one, were a direct confrontation with the Egyptian pantheon and Pharaoh's perceived divinity. The land of Egypt, with its rich history and culture, was being shown the power of the one true God, Yahweh, who was not limited by geography or political power.

will die
The Hebrew word used here is "muwth," which means to die or perish. This was not merely a natural death but a divine act of judgment. The certainty of this pronouncement underscores the seriousness of God's warning and the inevitability of His will. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of hardening one's heart against God, as Pharaoh had repeatedly done.

from the firstborn of Pharaoh
Pharaoh, considered a god-king, was the highest authority in Egypt. The mention of his firstborn highlights the extent of the plague's reach, affecting even the most powerful. This was a direct affront to Pharaoh's supposed divinity and a demonstration that no one, not even the ruler of the most powerful nation, was beyond the reach of God's judgment.

who sits on his throne
This phrase emphasizes the position of power and authority held by Pharaoh. The throne symbolizes sovereignty and control, yet even this seat of power could not protect Pharaoh's household from God's decree. It serves as a powerful reminder that earthly power is ultimately subject to divine authority.

to the firstborn of the maidservant
The inclusion of the maidservant's firstborn illustrates the universality of the judgment. It affected all social strata, from the highest to the lowest. This demonstrates that God's justice is impartial and that all are accountable to Him, regardless of their social or economic status.

behind the millstones
This phrase refers to the lowest level of servitude, where women would grind grain. It highlights the comprehensive nature of the plague, reaching even those who were often overlooked or marginalized in society. The millstone, a symbol of daily toil and sustenance, becomes a backdrop for divine intervention, showing that God's reach extends to every corner of life.

every firstborn of the livestock
The inclusion of livestock underscores the totality of the plague's impact. Livestock were vital to the Egyptian economy and daily life, providing food, labor, and wealth. The loss of the firstborn among the animals further crippled Egypt, demonstrating that God's power extended over all creation, not just humanity. This act served as a stark reminder of the Creator's dominion over all living things.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart was hardened against letting the Israelites go, leading to the plagues.

2. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved, and where God demonstrated His power through the plagues.

3. Firstborn
Refers to the firstborn sons of both humans and animals in Egypt, who were to die as part of the final plague.

4. Servant Girl
Represents the lowest social class in Egypt, indicating that the plague would affect all levels of society.

5. Cattle
The livestock of Egypt, which were also affected by the plague, showing the comprehensive nature of God's judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
This passage demonstrates God's ultimate authority over life and death, emphasizing His power to execute judgment.

The Cost of Disobedience
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's command resulted in severe consequences, reminding us of the importance of obedience to God.

Universal Judgment
The plague affected all levels of Egyptian society, illustrating that God's judgment is impartial and comprehensive.

Protection through Obedience
The subsequent Passover event shows that obedience to God's instructions provides protection and deliverance.

Foreshadowing of Christ
The death of the firstborn in Egypt points to the sacrificial death of Jesus, the firstborn over all creation, who provides salvation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the death of the firstborn in Egypt highlight the seriousness of sin and disobedience to God?

2. In what ways does the concept of the firstborn in Exodus 11:5 connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus as the "firstborn"?

3. How can we apply the lesson of God's impartial judgment in our own lives and communities today?

4. What parallels can we draw between the protection offered by the Passover lamb and the salvation offered through Jesus Christ?

5. How does understanding the cultural and historical context of the firstborn enhance our interpretation of this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 4
The concept of the firstborn is significant throughout Scripture, beginning with Cain and Abel, where the firstborn's role and responsibilities are highlighted.

Exodus 12
The Passover instructions follow this verse, where the Israelites are commanded to mark their doorposts with lamb's blood to protect their firstborn.

Numbers 3
The Levites are later set apart as a substitute for the firstborn of Israel, showing God's continued claim on the firstborn.

Hebrews 11
The faith of Moses is highlighted, including his role in leading the Israelites out of Egypt, which involved the events of the plagues.

Revelation 8
The plagues in Egypt foreshadow the judgments described in Revelation, showing a pattern of divine justice.