Exodus 5:21

"May the LORD look upon you and judge you," the foremen said, "for you have made us a stench before Pharaoh and his officials; you have placed in their hand a sword to kill us!"

Study Bible

and they said to them
This phrase introduces the response of the Israelite foremen to Moses and Aaron. The foremen, who were Hebrew overseers, were caught between the oppressive demands of Pharaoh and the leadership of Moses and Aaron. Historically, this reflects the tension and desperation of the Israelites under Egyptian bondage. The Hebrew word for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often conveys not just speech but a deep expression of emotion, indicating the foremen's frustration and fear.

May the LORD look upon you and judge you
Here, the foremen invoke the name of the LORD (YHWH), expressing a plea for divine justice. The Hebrew root for "look upon" (רָאָה, ra'ah) implies a request for God to see and understand their plight. "Judge" (שָׁפַט, shaphat) suggests a call for God to discern and act righteously. This reflects a deep-seated belief in God's sovereignty and justice, even amidst suffering. Theologically, it underscores the Israelites' reliance on God as the ultimate arbiter of justice.

because you have made us a stench to Pharaoh and his officials
The phrase "made us a stench" uses vivid imagery to describe the Israelites' deteriorating reputation with the Egyptians. The Hebrew word for "stench" (בָּאַשׁ, ba'ash) conveys a sense of being loathsome or detestable. This reflects the social and political dynamics of the time, where the Israelites' position was precarious, and any disruption could lead to severe consequences. Historically, it highlights the oppressive nature of Egyptian rule and the Israelites' vulnerability.

putting a sword in their hand to kill us
This metaphorical expression indicates the increased danger the Israelites faced due to Moses and Aaron's actions. The "sword" symbolizes the power and authority of Pharaoh, which could be wielded against the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "sword" (חֶרֶב, chereb) often represents judgment or warfare. This phrase captures the existential threat perceived by the Israelites, emphasizing their fear of retribution and the harsh realities of their enslavement.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses and Aaron
Leaders chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. They are the recipients of the Israelites' complaint in this verse.

2. Israelite Foremen
These are the leaders among the Israelites who were responsible for overseeing the work of their fellow Israelites under Egyptian oppression. They confront Moses and Aaron after Pharaoh increases their burdens.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who refuses to let the Israelites go and increases their labor, making their situation more difficult.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It represents a place of bondage and oppression in the biblical account.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who has promised to deliver His people from slavery. The foremen invoke His judgment upon Moses and Aaron.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Timing
The Israelites' immediate reaction to increased hardship was to blame Moses and Aaron, forgetting God's promise of deliverance. Believers today are reminded to trust in God's timing, even when circumstances seem to worsen.

The Danger of Short-Sightedness
The foremen's focus on their immediate suffering led them to lose sight of the bigger picture of God's plan. Christians are encouraged to maintain a long-term perspective, trusting that God is working for their good.

Responding to Leadership
The Israelites' reaction to Moses and Aaron serves as a cautionary tale about how we respond to God-appointed leaders. It is important to support and pray for those in leadership, even when their decisions lead to temporary discomfort.

Faith in Adversity
This passage challenges believers to maintain faith during trials, recognizing that God often uses difficult circumstances to bring about His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the reaction of the Israelite foremen in Exodus 5:21 reflect a common human response to increased hardship?

2. In what ways can we apply the lesson of trusting in God's timing from this passage to our own lives?

3. How does the Israelites' short-sightedness in this situation compare to other instances in the Bible where God's people struggled with faith?

4. What can we learn from the Israelites' response about supporting and praying for our leaders, especially in challenging times?

5. How can James 1:2-4 help us reframe our understanding of trials and adversity in light of Exodus 5:21?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:7-10
God hears the cries of the Israelites and commissions Moses to lead them out of Egypt. This background highlights the tension between God's promise and the current suffering of the Israelites.

Numbers 14:1-4
The Israelites frequently express doubt and fear when faced with adversity, similar to their reaction in Exodus 5:21.

James 1:2-4
This passage encourages believers to consider trials as opportunities for growth, contrasting the Israelites' response to hardship.