A common misinterpretation portrays the Israelites as deceitfully 'borrowing' items they never intended to return, thus stealing from the Egyptians, but the Hebrew term sha'al means 'to ask' rather than implying a loan, and the context of God's favor and the subsequent spoiling of Egypt shows this as rightful compensation for unpaid labor amid divine judgment via the plagues, not theft; another error views it as endorsing modern trickery or plunder, ignoring its specific historical and covenantal role in Israel's redemption.
Exodus 12:35
King James Version (1769)
35 And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they borrowed of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment:
Exodus 12:35 recounts how the Israelites obeyed Moses by requesting valuable items like silver, gold jewels, and clothing from the Egyptians, fulfilling God's earlier promise that they would leave Egypt enriched after their long labor without compensation; this act demonstrates divine provision and favor, as the Lord inclined the Egyptians' hearts to grant these possessions willingly, enabling Israel to depart not as slaves but with spoils that would support their wilderness journey and future tabernacle construction, underscoring God's faithfulness in both judgment on oppressors and blessing on His people.