Exodus

PROTHEMATA ON EXODUS

In the Pentateuch Exodus excels, in which nearly all the mysteries by which the Church is instructed are figuratively expressed. For by the bodily going out of the children of Israel from Egypt our bodily going out from spiritual Egypt is signified. By the Red Sea, and the drowning of Pharaoh and of the Egyptians, the mystery of baptism and the destruction of spiritual enemies. By the immolation of the typical lamb, and of the deliverances of the Hebrews, the passion of the true Lamb and our redemption. From heaven manna is given, and water from the rock. *This is the bread which came down from heaven* and the teaching of Christ. On the mountain precepts and judgments are given to the people of God, that we may be made subject to heavenly disciplines. The tabernacle and its vessels are constructed, worship and sacrifices are commanded, by which the adornment of the Church and spiritual sacrifices are signified. The mystical unction and the fragrant compounds are prepared, by which the sanctification of the spirit and the perfumes of prayer are commended. Hence Paul says: *All ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink,* etc. Hence John also: *These things were done,* he says, *that the Scripture might be fulfilled: You shall not break a bone of him*. *Veelle Semoth* ( ואלה שמות ) in Hebrew; ἒξοδος in Greek; *exodus, exitus* or *egressus* in Latin.