The book Exodus relates the period of time from Jacob’s entrance into the land of Egypt (circa 1876 B.C.) to the building of the Tabernacle (circa 1445 B.C.), a total of 430 years as related in Exodus 12:41. The title, taken from the LXX, means “exit” or “departure,” referring to Israel’s departure from Egypt—though the majority of the book focuses on Israel’s experience at Mount Sinai.

The book picks up where Genesis leaves off—with the offspring of Abraham dwelling in the land of Egypt. The continuity between the two books is evident in 1:1-8. Importantly, we see an echo of the Adamic mandate in 1:7 where Moses writes, “The people of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly; they multiplied and grew exceedingly strong.” Abraham’s offspring are growing numerous as God promised, but they are in the wrong place: Egypt, instead of the Promised Land. Exodus and the rest of the Pentateuch narrate Israel’s movement from slavery in Egypt to the borders of Canaan.