Exodus 1:10

"Come, let’s deal wisely with them, lest they multiply, and it happen that when any war breaks out, they also join themselves to our enemies and fight against us, and escape out of the land.”"

Key Reflection

In Exodus 1:10, Pharaoh is motivated by a strategic fear for Egypt’s security. He worries that the Israelites might increase in number and, should war break out, could ally with their enemies against Egypt, thereby jeopardizing his nation's safety and stability. This verse reflects the historical context of Egypt where population growth was often seen as a threat to national resources and military preparedness. Pharaoh’s directive reveals his pragmatic approach to maintaining control over the Israelites, ensuring they remain useful yet not too powerful to pose a future risk.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Any war -The Northeastern frontier was infested by the neighboring tribes, the Shasous of Egyptian monuments, and war was waged with Egypt by the confederated nations of Western Asia under the reigns of the successors of Amosis. These incursions were repulsed with extreme difficulty. In language, features, costume, and partly also in habits, the Israelites probably resembled those enemies of Egypt. Out of the land -The Pharaohs apprehended the loss of revenue and power, which would result from the withdrawal of a peaceful and industrious race.

More from Exodus 1

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