In Exodus, does "first born" refer to children, or everyone living who happened to be born first?

by crow_hill

That's pretty much it. I realize this might not be the best subreddit, but I've tried in a number of more bible-related places and haven't had much luck.

The Bible itself doesn't say. I'm hoping for some outside source (even if that source is well-reasoned speculation).

husky54

Children, to be sure.

Pharaoh, in the narrative world of the text, was likely a first born--but he wasn't killed by the Destroyer.

Also, check out Propp's commentary on Exodus in the Anchor Bible Series for more, good information.