Exodus 14:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 14:11
11 And they said unto Moses, Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness? wherefore hast thou dealt thus with us, to carry us forth out of Egypt?
Chapter Context
Exodus 14 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, holiness, covenant. 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 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
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 14:11
11 And they said unto Moses, Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness? wherefore hast thou dealt thus with us, to carry us forth out of Egypt?
Analysis
Israel's complaint 'Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness?' uses bitter sarcasm—Egypt had plenty of graves (pyramids!). The accusation against Moses challenges his leadership and questions God's purposes. The phrase 'wherefore hast thou dealt thus with us, to carry us forth out of Egypt?' shows how quickly gratitude for deliverance turns to accusation under pressure. Fear produces irrational blame.
Historical Context
Egypt was famous for elaborate tombs and burial practices. The sarcastic reference to graves emphasizes how fear made slavery seem preferable to current danger—a tragic memory lapse about bondage's reality.
Reflection
- How quickly do you forget bondage to sin when sanctification's path seems difficult?
- What does irrational preference for familiar slavery over uncertain freedom teach about fear's power?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Numbers 11:1, 11:15