Seminaries and Institutes
The Book of Exodus


“The Book of Exodus,” Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide (2002), 41–56

“The Book of Exodus,” Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide, 41–56

The Book of Exodus

The book of Exodus is the second of the five books of Moses. In Exodus we read about Moses’ birth, his calling as a prophet, and how he led the children of Israel out of Egypt. Exodus means “exit” or “departure.”

Why Read Exodus?

There are many reasons the book of Exodus is significant to Latter-day Saints today. The first half of Exodus tells the inspiring story of how the prophet Moses led the Israelites in a miraculous escape from slavery.

We also learn about notable events in religious history, like the Passover, the parting of the Red Sea, and the giving of the Ten Commandments. From the teachings in Exodus, we can gain faith that the Lord will lead His people to Him by raising up prophets to teach and lead them, by giving them His law, by inviting them to enter covenants to keep that law, and by giving them temples where they can receive covenants and more fully worship Him. The Lord promises that those who are true and faithful can enter His presence.

Getting Ready to Study Exodus

There is a period between the end of Genesis and the beginning of Exodus that is not written about in the Bible. During that time, the children of Israel increased in number and prospered in the land assigned to them by the pharaoh who ruled at the time of Joseph. After some years, a new line of pharaohs who did not have respect for Joseph’s family came to power and enslaved the Israelites.

The first part of Exodus tells the story of Moses and the role he played in delivering the children of Israel from bondage (see chapters 1–18). The rest of Exodus tells about how worship and religious laws and covenants were reestablished among the children of Israel. These laws and covenants were given to prepare the Israelites to enter the land God promised them as descendants of Abraham (see chapters 19–40).

Unfortunately, the Israelites often complained about God’s dealings with them, which led them to rebellion and disobedience. Their complaining and rebellion kept them from receiving all the blessings the Lord desired to give them. As you read, you may be amazed at how merciful the Lord was to the Israelites—even when they complained against Him. (For more information on the book of Exodus, see the Bible Dictionary, “Exodus, book of,” p. 668.)