Slavery in Egypt

The narrative of Israel's slavery in Egypt is a foundational element of the biblical account, marking the beginning of the nation's journey from bondage to freedom. The Israelites' descent into slavery is recorded in the Book of Exodus. Initially, the Israelites settled in Egypt during a time of famine, as recounted in Genesis 47:11-12, when Joseph, a son of Jacob, was a high-ranking official in Pharaoh's court. Over time, the Israelites multiplied and prospered in the land of Goshen.

However, a new Pharaoh arose who did not know Joseph and perceived the growing Israelite population as a threat. Exodus 1:8-10 states, "Then a new king, who did not know Joseph, came to power in Egypt. 'Look,' he said to his people, 'the Israelites have become far too numerous for us. Come, we must deal shrewdly with them, or they will become even more numerous, and if war breaks out, they will join our enemies, fight against us, and leave the country.'"

In response, the Egyptians enslaved the Israelites, subjecting them to harsh labor and oppression. Exodus 1:13-14 describes their plight: "They worked the Israelites ruthlessly and made their lives bitter with hard labor in brick and mortar and with all kinds of work in the fields; in all their hard labor, the Egyptians used them