Overview
Exodus records the deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt through Moses and the journey to Mount Sinai. At Sinai, God establishes a covenant with Israel and gives the Ten Commandments and the covenant statutes. The latter part of the book concerns the regulations for the tabernacle and its construction, and it closes with the glory of YHWH filling the tabernacle.
Theme Deliverance from Egypt, the Sinai covenant, and God dwelling among His people
Historical background
The two principal views on the date of the Exodus are the 15th century BC, based on 1 Kings 6:1, and the 13th century BC, based on evidence such as the building of the city of Rameses. Egypt in this period was in its New Kingdom era and exercised strong influence over Canaan. The form of the Sinai covenant is frequently compared with ancient Near Eastern suzerainty treaties.