Exodus 13:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In accordance with the Lord's directive regarding the declaration of the firstborn, Moses highlights this law to the Israelites as a testament to God's benevolence in liberating them from Egypt. "Remember this day, in which ye were taken out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of labour." Egypt is referred to as the house of toil or bondage because the Israelites were subjected to forced labor there, treated by the Egyptians as if they were criminals confined in prison and burdened with relentless toil as a consequence of their perceived offenses. The Hebrews could not have emerged from this dire situation through their own efforts; it was the Lord Himself who rescued them with a mighty hand. This powerful hand signifies the formidable strength the Lord wielded against the Egyptians when He afflicted them with extraordinary plagues, ultimately compelling them to release the Israelites.

Moses undoubtedly summoned the elders to Sokhof, where he reiterated the necessity of adhering to the law of unleavened bread. He also included the commandments he received from God regarding the dedication of the firstborn to the Lord. On this inaugural day of liberation and salvation from the death of the firstborn, as all of Egypt mourned their lost children, it was fitting to establish this ordinance of offering their firstborn to God.