This verse in Exodus 10:8 is a pivotal point in the negotiations between Moses and Aaron (representing God) and Pharaoh. It reveals a shift in Pharaoh's resistance, and a subtle strategy on his part. Let's break down the meaning:
"Moses and Aaron were brought again to Pharaoh...": This highlights the repeated encounters and increasing pressure on Pharaoh. The plagues are escalating, and the Egyptian court is in disarray. Pharaoh is desperate to find a solution.
"...and he said to them, 'Go, serve Yahweh your God;'": This is a partial concession from Pharaoh. He's finally allowing the Israelites to worship their God. This is a significant shift from his initial absolute refusal. However, it's not a complete acceptance of God's demands.
"...but who are those who will go?'": This is the key to understanding the verse. By asking this question, Pharaoh is attempting to:
Limit the Exodus: He doesn't want everyone to leave. He's hoping to allow only the men to go for a short period of worship, perhaps leaving the women, children, and livestock behind as collateral to ensure their return.
Maintain Control: He's trying to dictate the terms of worship. By specifying who can go, he's asserting his authority and control over the Israelites.
Divide and Conquer: He might be hoping to create dissent among the Israelites. Some might be willing to accept this limited offer, while others might insist on the full exodus that God commanded.
In summary, this verse represents a stage in Pharaoh's resistance where he is willing to compromise to some extent, but is still attempting to maintain control and limit the scope of the Israelites' departure. He doesn't fully acknowledge God's authority and is trying to dictate the terms of worship.
The Israelites, as revealed in the following verses, will not accept this limited offer. They are determined to leave with everyone and everything, as commanded by God.
This verse in Exodus 10:8 is a pivotal point in the negotiations between Moses and Aaron (representing God) and Pharaoh. It reveals a shift in Pharaoh's resistance, and a subtle strategy on his part. Let's break down the meaning:
"Moses and Aaron were brought again to Pharaoh...": This highlights the repeated encounters and increasing pressure on Pharaoh. The plagues are escalating, and the Egyptian court is in disarray. Pharaoh is desperate to find a solution.
"...and he said to them, 'Go, serve Yahweh your God;'": This is a partial concession from Pharaoh. He's finally allowing the Israelites to worship their God. This is a significant shift from his initial absolute refusal. However, it's not a complete acceptance of God's demands.
"...but who are those who will go?'": This is the key to understanding the verse. By asking this question, Pharaoh is attempting to:
Limit the Exodus: He doesn't want everyone to leave. He's hoping to allow only the men to go for a short period of worship, perhaps leaving the women, children, and livestock behind as collateral to ensure their return.
Maintain Control: He's trying to dictate the terms of worship. By specifying who can go, he's asserting his authority and control over the Israelites.
Divide and Conquer: He might be hoping to create dissent among the Israelites. Some might be willing to accept this limited offer, while others might insist on the full exodus that God commanded.
In summary, this verse represents a stage in Pharaoh's resistance where he is willing to compromise to some extent, but is still attempting to maintain control and limit the scope of the Israelites' departure. He doesn't fully acknowledge God's authority and is trying to dictate the terms of worship.
The Israelites, as revealed in the following verses, will not accept this limited offer. They are determined to leave with everyone and everything, as commanded by God.