Exodus 1:9

"Look," he said to his people, "the Israelites have become too numerous and too powerful for us.

Study Bible

He said to his people
This phrase introduces Pharaoh's address to the Egyptians, highlighting the beginning of a significant shift in the narrative of the Israelites in Egypt. The Hebrew word for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is often used to denote a declaration or command. This sets the tone for the authoritative and decisive nature of Pharaoh's speech. Historically, this moment marks the transition from a period of favor under Joseph to one of oppression, as a new Pharaoh arises who does not remember Joseph's contributions to Egypt.

Look
The Hebrew word "הִנֵּה" (hinneh) is used here, which is often translated as "behold" or "see." It serves as an imperative to draw attention, indicating that Pharaoh is about to present something of great importance. This word is used throughout the Bible to emphasize the significance of what follows, urging the listener or reader to pay close attention.

the people of Israel
This phrase identifies the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel, who have grown into a significant population within Egypt. The term "people" (עַם, am) signifies a collective group with a shared identity and destiny. The Israelites are not just a family but have become a distinct nation within a nation. This sets the stage for the unfolding narrative of their eventual liberation and journey to the Promised Land.

have become far too numerous for us
The Hebrew word for "numerous" is "רַב" (rav), which conveys the idea of abundance or greatness in number. Pharaoh's observation reflects a growing concern about the Israelites' population growth, which he perceives as a potential threat to Egyptian stability and security. This fear of the Israelites' increasing numbers is a pivotal moment that leads to their subsequent enslavement. Historically, this reflects the common ancient Near Eastern practice of oppressing minority groups perceived as threats. This phrase underscores the theme of God's blessing and promise to Abraham, that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars, even in the face of adversity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who felt threatened by the growing population of the Israelites. His fear led to the oppression of the Israelites.

2. The Israelites
The descendants of Jacob (Israel) who were living in Egypt. They had grown in number and strength, which caused concern for the Egyptians.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were living as foreigners. It was a place of both refuge and eventual oppression for the Israelites.

4. The Oppression of Israel
This event marks the beginning of the Israelites' suffering in Egypt, which eventually leads to their deliverance through Moses.

5. The Fear of the Egyptians
The Egyptians' fear of the Israelites' numbers and potential power led to their decision to enslave them.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Multiplication
Despite the oppression, God was faithful to His promise to Abraham to multiply his descendants. This reminds us that God's promises are sure, even in difficult circumstances.

Fear Leads to Oppression
Pharaoh's fear of the Israelites led to their oppression. Fear can lead to sin and injustice, and we must guard against allowing fear to dictate our actions.

The Power of God's People
The Israelites' growth in number and strength was a testament to God's blessing. As believers, we should recognize the power and influence we have when we are aligned with God's will.

Trust in God's Deliverance
The oppression of the Israelites sets the stage for God's deliverance through Moses. We can trust that God will deliver us from our own "Egypts" in His perfect timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fear of Pharaoh reflect the fears we might face in our own lives, and how should we respond to such fears biblically?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness to His promises in the growth of the Israelites, and how can this encourage us in our personal walk with God?

3. How does the oppression of the Israelites in Egypt parallel the spiritual oppression believers might face today, and what scriptures can we use to combat this?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' situation about the importance of community and unity among God's people?

5. How can we apply the account of the Israelites' growth and subsequent oppression to our understanding of God's sovereignty and timing in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 46:3-4
God reassures Jacob about going to Egypt, promising to make him a great nation there. This connects to the fulfillment of that promise as seen in Exodus 1:9.

Exodus 12:37-38
The eventual exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, showing the fulfillment of God's promise to deliver them despite their oppression.

Acts 7:17-19
Stephen's speech in the New Testament recounts the growth of the Israelites in Egypt and the subsequent oppression, providing a New Testament perspective on these events.