Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the blood on the doorposts symbolize in Exodus 12:7?
A: According to Rashi, the blood on the doorposts (מזוזות) and lintel (משקוף) served as a sign of merit for the Israelites during the Plague of the Firstborn. It demonstrated their faith in Hashem's command and their willingness to perform this mitzvah despite the risks. The Midrash also teaches that this act showed their commitment to leaving Egypt and embracing their identity as the Jewish people.
Q: Why did the Israelites put blood specifically on the doorposts and lintel?
A: The Talmud (Pesachim 96a) explains that the three placements (two doorposts and the lintel) correspond to the three Patriarchs—Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov—whose merit protected the Israelites. Rambam adds that this physical act reinforced their belief in Hashem's promise of redemption. The doorframe represents the entrance to the home, symbolizing that their faith began in their households.
Q: How does Exodus 12:7 relate to the mitzvah of mezuzah today?
A: The Sages connect this verse to the later mitzvah of mezuzah (Deuteronomy 6:9). Just as the blood marked Jewish homes in Egypt for protection, the mezuzah—placed on doorposts—serves as a reminder of Hashem's presence and our commitment to Torah. The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 285) elaborates that both acts sanctify the Jewish home, though the mezuzah is a permanent obligation with different requirements.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the Israelites' action in this verse?
A: The Kli Yakar teaches that this act emphasizes the importance of public demonstration of faith (קידוש השם). The Israelites performed this mitzvah visibly, showing their trust in Hashem even under Egyptian oppression. Today, this reminds us to proudly uphold mitzvot and Jewish identity, especially in challenging times.
Q: Why was the blood applied with a bundle of hyssop (as mentioned in later verses)?
A: Rashi (on Exodus 12:22) explains that hyssop (אזוב), a humble plant, symbolizes humility before Hashem. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 17:2) adds that just as hyssop purifies in other contexts (e.g., purification from tzara'at), here it represented the spiritual purification of the Israelites as they prepared for redemption. This teaches that redemption comes through humility and repentance.
The Mitzvah of Placing the Blood on the Doorposts
The verse describes the commandment given to Bnei Yisrael to place the blood of the Korban Pesach (Paschal lamb) on the doorposts and lintel of their homes in Mitzrayim (Exodus 12:7). This act served as a sign of protection during Makkas Bechoros (the Plague of the Firstborn) and demonstrated their faith in Hashem.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Exodus 12:7) explains that the blood was placed on the outside of the doorposts so that it would be visible to passersby. This public display was a declaration of their commitment to Hashem's commandments, distinguishing them from the Egyptians who worshipped the lamb as a deity. By slaughtering the Egyptian god and marking their homes with its blood, Bnei Yisrael demonstrated their rejection of idolatry.
Symbolism of the Three Applications
The blood was placed on two side posts and the lintel, forming a shape reminiscent of the letter ח (Chet), which begins the word חיים (life). This symbolizes that through this mitzvah, Bnei Yisrael merited life and redemption. Additionally, the three applications correspond to:
This teaches that their redemption was rooted in the merit of the Avos (forefathers).
The Rambam's Perspective
The Rambam (Hilchos Korban Pesach 1:5) emphasizes that this mitzvah was a one-time obligation in Mitzrayim and not repeated in future generations. However, its significance remains eternal as a foundational act of emunah (faith) that prepared Bnei Yisrael for Yetzias Mitzrayim (the Exodus).
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 17:3) teaches that the blood served as a protective sign, similar to the blood of Bris Milah (circumcision). Just as Bnei Yisrael entered the covenant of Avraham through Milah, they now reaffirmed their bond with Hashem through the blood of the Korban Pesach. This dual covenant ensured their salvation.