Exodus 23:19 Meaning and Explanation
“The first of the firstfruits of thy land thou shalt bring into the house of the LORD thy God. Thou shalt not seethe a kid in his mother's milk.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Bring the first produce to God's house, and do not boil a young goat in its mother's milk.
The Context of Exodus 23:19
Laws governing firstfruits offerings and ritual cleanliness.
What Does Exodus 23:19 Mean?
The first verse commands giving the best of the harvest to God's temple, acknowledging His ownership of the land and providing for the priests. The second prohibition against cooking a kid in its mother's milk is often explained as maintaining a boundary between categories—life and death, nourishment and consumption.
Both commands reflect careful attention to proper worship and ethical boundaries. They show that following God involves distinct practices that set Israel apart.
Exodus 23:19 in the Original Language
gedi (גְּדִי), 'kid'—a young goat, often valued as food but here protected from a specific preparation method.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 23:19
What does Exodus 23:19 mean?
Bring the first produce to God's house, and do not boil a young goat in its mother's milk.
What is the context of Exodus 23:19?
Laws governing firstfruits offerings and ritual cleanliness.