The answer is: Jewels

Exo 3:21-22 / Exo 11:2-3 / Exo 12:35 - God had promised Abraham that when the Israelites left Egypt they would come out with great possessions.

In the grand story of Exodus, the Israelites asking their Egyptian neighbors for jewelry might at first seem a bit bewildering, like someone saying “Can I borrow your gold chain?” during a bitter breakup. Yet, this act was part of a divine plan articulated long before the actual borrowing happened. God had arranged a thrilling escape filled with the prospect of not just relief but also abundant fortune as the Israelites ventured toward the Promised Land.

Another fascinating detail about the jewelry taken speaks to the cultural backdrop of Egypt. The Egyptians were known for their opulence and mastery of both metallurgy and craftsmanship, evidenced in their iconic golden masks and detailed jewelry adorned with precious stones. These riches likely represented much more than mere accessories—they reflected the artistry and wealth of an advanced ancient civilization.

What's more, this moment echoing through the Exodus signifies a shift in power dynamics. Just as God promised that the oppressed would take what their oppressors once regarded as theirs, this moment acts as a foreshadowing of divine justice. It highlights how, at critical times, everything can be turned upside down, rewriting history according to hope and promise.

In the wider scope, this narrative functions as a compelling reminder that liberation often comes hand-in-hand with the bounty of new beginnings, transforming challenging circumstances into pathways filled with divine respect and eventual prosperity. Each sparkling piece of jewelry wasn’t just material; it held the collective story of deliverance, legacy, and hope for a brighter future.