Exodus 11:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 11:3
3 And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover the man Moses was very great in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh's servants, and in the sight of the people.
Chapter Context
Exodus 11 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, redemption, creation. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-10: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 11:3
3 And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover the man Moses was very great in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh's servants, and in the sight of the people.
Analysis
The phrase 'the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians' reverses their earlier hatred. Moses himself 'was very great in the land of Egypt'—even Pharaoh's servants and people respect him. God transforms Moses from hunted fugitive to honored leader.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern cultures valued reputation highly. God's granting favor demonstrates His ability to change human perception. Moses's greatness anticipates the greater prophet (Deut 18:15) whom Israel must hear.
Reflection
- How has God transformed your reputation from what you feared it would be?
- What does Moses's elevation teach about God vindicating His servants?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 12:36, Genesis 39:21, Deuteronomy 34:11, Isaiah 60:14
- References Egypt: Exodus 3:21
- References Moses: Acts 7:22
- Parallel theme: 2 Samuel 7:9, Esther 9:4, Psalms 106:46, Revelation 3:9