Exodus 5:2

But Pharaoh replied, "Who is the LORD that I should obey His voice and let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and I will not let Israel go."

Study Bible

But Pharaoh replied
The phrase introduces Pharaoh's response, setting the stage for a confrontation between divine authority and human arrogance. In the Hebrew text, the word for "replied" (וַיֹּאמֶר, vayomer) is a common term for speaking, but here it signifies a dismissive and defiant tone. Pharaoh, as the ruler of Egypt, represents the epitome of earthly power and authority, yet his response reveals a heart hardened against the divine will. This sets a precedent for the ensuing narrative where God's power will be demonstrated over human obstinacy.

Who is the LORD
Pharaoh's question is rhetorical, reflecting his ignorance and disdain for the God of Israel. The Hebrew term for "LORD" here is יְהוָה (YHWH), the sacred and personal name of God, which signifies His eternal and self-existent nature. Pharaoh's question underscores a spiritual blindness and a lack of recognition of the true God, contrasting with the Israelites' understanding of YHWH as their covenant God. This question becomes a central theme in Exodus, as God will reveal His identity and power through the plagues and the eventual liberation of His people.

that I should obey His voice
The concept of obedience is central to the biblical narrative. The Hebrew word for "obey" (אֶשְׁמַע, eshma) implies listening with the intent to act. Pharaoh's refusal to obey highlights a fundamental conflict between human will and divine command. In the broader scriptural context, obedience to God's voice is a recurring theme, emphasizing the importance of submission to divine authority as a mark of true faith and devotion.

and let Israel go?
This phrase encapsulates the demand made by Moses and Aaron on behalf of God. "Israel" refers to the descendants of Jacob, God's chosen people, who are enslaved in Egypt. The demand to "let go" (שַׁלַּח, shalach) is not merely a request for freedom but a call for Pharaoh to recognize God's sovereignty over His people. Historically, this reflects the socio-political reality of the time, where the liberation of a slave nation would challenge the economic and political structures of Egypt.

I do not know the LORD
Pharaoh's admission of not knowing YHWH is both a statement of ignorance and a declaration of defiance. In the ancient Near Eastern context, to "know" a deity often implied acknowledgment and reverence. Pharaoh's lack of knowledge is not just intellectual but relational, indicating a refusal to acknowledge YHWH's authority. This ignorance sets the stage for God to make Himself known through mighty acts, demonstrating His supremacy over the gods of Egypt.

and I will not let Israel go
Pharaoh's final declaration is a direct challenge to God's command. The Hebrew construction here emphasizes his resolute refusal. This sets up the narrative tension that will drive the subsequent events in Exodus. Pharaoh's obstinacy becomes a backdrop against which God's power and faithfulness to His promises are vividly displayed. Theologically, this highlights the futility of resisting God's will and the certainty of His purposes being fulfilled despite human opposition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, representing the epitome of earthly power and authority. His heart is hardened against God, and he refuses to acknowledge the LORD's sovereignty.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, signifying His eternal, self-existent nature. He is the God of Israel, demanding obedience and worship.

3. Moses and Aaron
God's chosen leaders to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. They are the messengers of God's command to Pharaoh.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It symbolizes oppression and the worldly system opposed to God's will.

5. Israelites
God's chosen people, enslaved in Egypt, representing those who are called to freedom and worship of the true God.

Teaching Points

Acknowledging God's Sovereignty
Pharaoh's question, "Who is the LORD?" reflects a heart that refuses to recognize God's authority. As believers, we must acknowledge God's sovereignty in every aspect of our lives.

The Danger of Hard-heartedness
Pharaoh's refusal to obey God serves as a warning against hardening our hearts. We should remain open and responsive to God's voice.

God's Patience and Justice
Despite Pharaoh's defiance, God is patient, giving him multiple opportunities to repent. However, God's justice will ultimately prevail.

The Call to Obedience
Just as Moses and Aaron were obedient to God's command, we are called to faithfully follow God's directives, even in the face of opposition.

Witnessing to the World
Pharaoh's ignorance of the LORD challenges us to be witnesses of God's truth to those who do not know Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Pharaoh's response to Moses and Aaron reflect a common attitude towards God in today's world?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our hearts remain soft and responsive to God's voice?

3. How does the account of Pharaoh and the plagues demonstrate both God's patience and His justice?

4. What are some practical ways we can acknowledge God's sovereignty in our daily lives?

5. How can we effectively witness to those who, like Pharaoh, do not know the LORD?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 9
Discusses God's sovereignty and mercy, using Pharaoh as an example of God's power over human rulers.

Psalm 95
Calls for worship and obedience to God, contrasting the hard-heartedness of those who refuse to acknowledge Him.

Acts 17
Paul speaks to the Athenians about the "unknown god," paralleling Pharaoh's ignorance of the LORD.