Exodus 5:2

But Pharaoh replied, "Who is the LORD that I should obey His voice and let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and I will not let Israel go."

Study Bible

But Pharaoh replied,
Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, is a central figure in the Exodus narrative. His response sets the stage for the ensuing conflict between God and the Egyptian deities. In ancient Egypt, Pharaoh was considered a god-king, embodying divine authority. His reply reflects his perceived supremacy and the challenge to his authority posed by Moses and Aaron.

“Who is the LORD
Pharaoh's question reveals his ignorance of Yahweh, the God of Israel. In the polytheistic culture of Egypt, where numerous gods were worshiped, the LORD was unknown to Pharaoh. This question underscores the spiritual blindness and arrogance of Pharaoh, who does not recognize the sovereignty of the God of Israel. It also foreshadows the revelation of God's power through the plagues.

that I should obey His voice
Pharaoh's refusal to obey highlights the theme of rebellion against divine authority. In the ancient Near Eastern context, kings were expected to heed the commands of their gods. Pharaoh's defiance is not just against Moses and Aaron but against the LORD Himself. This sets up a narrative of divine judgment and deliverance.

and let Israel go?
The demand to release the Israelites is central to the Exodus story. Israel's bondage in Egypt is symbolic of sin and oppression, and their liberation is a type of salvation. The request for freedom is not merely a political or social issue but a theological one, as it involves God's covenant with Abraham and His promise to make Israel a great nation.

I do not know the LORD,
Pharaoh's ignorance of the LORD is both literal and spiritual. In the biblical narrative, knowing God implies a relationship and acknowledgment of His authority. Pharaoh's statement reflects his spiritual state and sets the stage for God to demonstrate His power and make His name known through the plagues and the eventual Exodus.

and I will not let Israel go.”
Pharaoh's refusal is a direct challenge to God's command. This obstinacy is a recurring theme in the narrative, leading to the hardening of Pharaoh's heart and the subsequent plagues. It illustrates the conflict between human will and divine purpose, and the lengths to which God will go to fulfill His promises to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, representing the epitome of earthly power and authority. His heart is hardened against God, and he refuses to acknowledge the LORD's sovereignty.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, signifying His eternal, self-existent nature. He is the God of Israel, demanding obedience and worship.

3. Moses and Aaron
God's chosen leaders to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. They are the messengers of God's command to Pharaoh.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It symbolizes oppression and the worldly system opposed to God's will.

5. Israelites
God's chosen people, enslaved in Egypt, representing those who are called to freedom and worship of the true God.

Teaching Points

Acknowledging God's Sovereignty
Pharaoh's question, "Who is the LORD?" reflects a heart that refuses to recognize God's authority. As believers, we must acknowledge God's sovereignty in every aspect of our lives.

The Danger of Hard-heartedness
Pharaoh's refusal to obey God serves as a warning against hardening our hearts. We should remain open and responsive to God's voice.

God's Patience and Justice
Despite Pharaoh's defiance, God is patient, giving him multiple opportunities to repent. However, God's justice will ultimately prevail.

The Call to Obedience
Just as Moses and Aaron were obedient to God's command, we are called to faithfully follow God's directives, even in the face of opposition.

Witnessing to the World
Pharaoh's ignorance of the LORD challenges us to be witnesses of God's truth to those who do not know Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh's response to Moses and Aaron reflect a common attitude towards God in today's world?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our hearts remain soft and responsive to God's voice?

3. How does the account of Pharaoh and the plagues demonstrate both God's patience and His justice?

4. What are some practical ways we can acknowledge God's sovereignty in our daily lives?

5. How can we effectively witness to those who, like Pharaoh, do not know the LORD?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 9
Discusses God's sovereignty and mercy, using Pharaoh as an example of God's power over human rulers.

Psalm 95
Calls for worship and obedience to God, contrasting the hard-heartedness of those who refuse to acknowledge Him.

Acts 17
Paul speaks to the Athenians about the "unknown god," paralleling Pharaoh's ignorance of the LORD.