And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle.
And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle.
And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle.
And a mixed band of people went with them; and flocks and herds in great numbers.
And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very many cattle.
A mixed multitude went up also with them, with flocks, herds, and even very much livestock.
And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle.
A mixed multitude - Probably remains of the old Semitic population, whether first brought into the district by the Hyksos or not is uncertain. As natural objects of suspicion and dislike to the Egyptians who had lately become masters of the country, they would be anxious to escape, the more especially after the calamities which preceded the Exodus.
Very much cattle - This is an important fact, both as showing that the oppression of the Israelites had not extended to confiscation of their property, and as bearing upon the question of their maintenance in the Wilderness.
12:38 And a mixed multitude went up with them - Some perhaps willing to leave their country, because it was laid waste by the plagues. But probably the greatest part was but a rude unthinking mob, that followed they knew not why: It is likely, when they understood that the children of Israel were to continue forty years in the wilderness, they quitted them, and returned to Egypt again. And flocks and herds, even very much cattle - This is taken notice of, because it was long ere Pharaoh would give them leave to remove their effects, which were chiefly cattle.