Exodus 5:9

Make the work harder on the men so they will be occupied and pay no attention to these lies."

Study Bible

Make the work harder
This phrase reflects the oppressive tactics of Pharaoh, who sought to increase the burden on the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "harder" is "כָּבַד" (kavad), which means to make heavy or burdensome. Historically, this reflects the harsh conditions of slavery in ancient Egypt, where the Israelites were forced into laborious tasks. Theologically, it symbolizes the spiritual oppression that sin and worldly powers can impose on God's people, urging believers to seek divine strength and deliverance.

on the men
The term "men" here refers to the Israelite laborers, emphasizing the collective suffering of the community. In Hebrew, "אֲנָשִׁים" (anashim) can mean men or people, indicating that the entire nation was affected by Pharaoh's decree. This highlights the communal aspect of suffering and the importance of unity and solidarity among God's people in times of trial.

so they will be occupied
Pharaoh's strategy was to keep the Israelites so busy with their labor that they would have no time to consider Moses' message of liberation. The Hebrew root "שָׁגַע" (shagah) implies being preoccupied or distracted. Spiritually, this serves as a warning against the distractions of the world that can keep believers from focusing on God's promises and purposes.

and pay no attention
This phrase underscores Pharaoh's intent to suppress the Israelites' hope and faith. The Hebrew "שָׁמַע" (shama) means to hear or listen, suggesting that Pharaoh wanted to prevent the Israelites from heeding Moses' words. It reflects the spiritual battle for attention and belief, where worldly voices often seek to drown out divine truth.

to these lies
Pharaoh dismisses Moses' message as "lies," reflecting his hardened heart and disbelief in God's power. The Hebrew word "שֶׁקֶר" (sheker) means falsehood or deception. This highlights the conflict between divine truth and human skepticism. For believers, it is a call to discernment, to recognize and hold fast to God's truth amidst the lies and deceptions of the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who opposes Moses and the Israelites. He is a central figure in the account, representing the oppressive force against God's people.

2. Moses and Aaron
God's chosen leaders to deliver the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. They confront Pharaoh with God's command to let His people go.

3. The Israelites
The descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are enslaved in Egypt. They are the recipients of God's promise of deliverance.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It symbolizes bondage and oppression in the biblical account.

5. Taskmasters
Egyptian overseers who enforce Pharaoh's harsh labor demands on the Israelites, increasing their burdens.

Teaching Points

The Nature of Oppression
Pharaoh's strategy to increase the Israelites' workload is a tactic to suppress their hope and distract them from God's promises. In our lives, we must recognize when worldly pressures attempt to divert our focus from God's truth.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as Pharaoh sought to keep the Israelites from listening to Moses, spiritual forces today aim to keep us from hearing and believing God's Word. We must be vigilant in maintaining our spiritual focus.

God's Faithfulness Amidst Trials
Despite the increased oppression, God's plan for deliverance was still in motion. We can trust that God is working for our good, even when circumstances seem to worsen.

The Power of Lies
Pharaoh refers to Moses' message as "lies," illustrating how truth can be distorted by those in power. We must discern truth from falsehood by grounding ourselves in Scripture.

Endurance in Faith
The Israelites' experience teaches us the importance of perseverance. When faced with trials, we should hold fast to God's promises and seek His strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh's response to Moses' request reflect the nature of spiritual opposition we might face today?

2. In what ways can increased "work" or busyness in our lives distract us from God's promises and truth?

3. How can we apply Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 to find rest amidst the burdens we face?

4. What strategies can we use to discern truth from lies in a world that often distorts God's Word?

5. How can the account of the Israelites' endurance encourage us to remain faithful during our own trials and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 1:11-14
This passage describes the initial oppression of the Israelites in Egypt, setting the stage for the increased burdens in Exodus 5:9.

Exodus 6:9
The Israelites' response to Moses' message of deliverance is one of discouragement due to their harsh labor, directly linking to the increased workload in Exodus 5:9.

Matthew 11:28-30
Jesus invites those who are weary and burdened to find rest in Him, contrasting the heavy burdens imposed by Pharaoh.

Acts 7:34
Stephen recounts God's awareness of the Israelites' suffering in Egypt, affirming God's concern and plan for deliverance.