Exodus 3:22 – Why would God command the Hebrews to steal from the Egyptians?

Problem: God said, “Thus you will plunder the Egyptians” (Ex. 3:22). This seems like a cruel command for God to give.

Solution: Actually, the text says that the women should “ask” the Egyptians for supplies before they leave. The Hebrews had been enslaved by the Egyptians for hundreds of years. These small gifts were hardly compensation for their years of unpaid service. In modern terms, we might call this getting your back wages –not stealing.


“But every woman shall borrow of her neighbour, and of her that sojourneth in her house, jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment: and ye shall put them upon your sons, and upon your daughters; and ye shall spoil the Egyptians. (Ex 3:22)

Posted by petra1000

I am a born again christian who loves the Lord and I am taking bible classes online