Exodus 14:12 - Isn’t this the word that we spoke to you in Egypt, saying, ‘Leave us alone, that we may serve the Egyptians?’ For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness.”

Generated Verse: Exodus 14:12

What does "Exodus 14:12" mean?


This verse, Exodus 14:12, captures the fear and despair of the Israelites as they are pursued by the Egyptian army after their exodus from Egypt. Let's break down its meaning:

"Isn’t this the word that we spoke to you in Egypt, saying, ‘Leave us alone, that we may serve the Egyptians?’" This is a reminder from the Israelites to Moses that they had warned him about this situation. They are saying, "Didn't we tell you this would happen? Didn't we tell you we didn't want to leave Egypt?" The word or prediction may refer to many instances where they have shown fear or doubt, even during the plagues that have befallen Egypt.

"For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness.” This expresses their current fear and perceived hopelessness. They would rather continue in slavery, which was a known quantity and at least provided sustenance, than face the unknown dangers and potential death in the wilderness.

In essence, the verse means:

The Israelites are rebuking Moses, accusing him of leading them into a worse situation than they were in before. They're saying they would rather be slaves in Egypt than face the possibility of dying in the desert while trying to escape. This verse highlights:

Lack of faith: They lack faith in God's ability to protect them and provide for them in the wilderness.
Fear of the unknown: The unknown dangers of the wilderness are more frightening to them than the familiar oppression of slavery.
Short-sightedness: They are focused on the immediate danger and have forgotten the suffering they endured as slaves and the promises God made to deliver them.
Discontentment: They are discontent with the freedom they have been granted, wishing for the perceived safety of their former bondage.