Exodus 6:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 6:1
1 Then the LORD said unto Moses, Now shalt thou see what I will do to Pharaoh: for with a strong hand shall he let them go, and with a strong hand shall he drive them out of his land.
Chapter Context
Exodus 6 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, righteousness, faith. 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 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 6:1
1 Then the LORD said unto Moses, Now shalt thou see what I will do to Pharaoh: for with a strong hand shall he let them go, and with a strong hand shall he drive them out of his land.
Analysis
God's response 'Now shalt thou see what I will do to Pharaoh' marks a turning point. The phrase 'with a strong hand' (בְּיָד חֲזָקָה, beyad chazaqah) introduces the paradox: the same 'strengthening' that hardens Pharaoh's heart will also drive him to release Israel. The doubling 'thrust them out... drive them out' emphasizes Pharaoh's complete reversal.
Historical Context
The 'strong hand' motif appears throughout Exodus, referring sometimes to Pharaoh's stubbornness and sometimes to God's power. Ancient Near Eastern warfare often ended with victors 'driving out' defeated populations.
Reflection
- How does God's timing ('now') speak to your current season of waiting?
- What does this passage teach about God working through opposition rather than removing it?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 11:1, 12:31, 13:3, Psalms 12:5
- References Moses: Isaiah 63:12
- Parallel theme: Exodus 12:33, 12:39, Deuteronomy 32:39, Psalms 89:13, 136:12