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.

When the Israelites were on the brink of departure from Egypt, they weren’t just leaving behind hardship; they were also being prepared for a prosperous journey ahead—as cemented by God's promise to Abraham. The "jewels" referred to in Exodus, like gold and silver, didn't just serve as a flash of extravagance; they played a practical role in establishing the Israelites as a new community that needed resources for survival and worship upon settling in the Promised Land. Interestingly, this borrowing, or more aptly termed "asking," showcased God's orchestration in a seemingly chaotic escape.

Did you know this wasn’t merely an act of plundering? The actions of the Israelites reflected the custom of the time when individuals would request resources before significant transitions. This helped transform the Israelites' dire situation into one that would kickstart their new identity and covenant with God. An echo of this gathering of riches appears in other biblical narratives, such as the dedication of the Tabernacle, where these jewels would later contribute to the worship of Yahweh.

Furthermore, Exodus highlights a broader relationship between freedom and wealth, showing that the journey to self-determination can be fraught with struggles, but also that stepping into a new destiny often involves taking what is needed to flourish. Just as the Israelites were promised great possessions to declare their new purpose, all journeys of liberation require preparation and resources to ensure success.