This verse from Exodus 7:15 is a specific instruction from God to Moses and Aaron about how to approach Pharaoh to demand the release of the Israelites from slavery. Let's break down the meaning:
"Go to Pharaoh in the morning.": This specifies the time of day Moses and Aaron should approach Pharaoh. The morning was likely a time when Pharaoh would be more accessible before the day's official duties began.
"Behold, he goes out to the water": This indicates Pharaoh's routine. He regularly went to the Nile River in the morning. This could have been for religious reasons (worshiping the Nile as a god), for hygiene, or simply for a walk by the water. This detail provides Moses and Aaron with a predictable location to find him.
"and you shall stand by the river’s bank to meet him": Moses and Aaron are instructed to position themselves specifically by the riverbank to intercept Pharaoh. They are to be there, waiting for him when he arrives.
"and the rod which was turned to a serpent you shall take in your hand": This is a crucial instruction. The rod that had previously been transformed into a serpent (Exodus 4:2-5) is to be taken as a symbol of God's power. This serves multiple purposes:
Authority: The rod is a symbol of God's authority and power given to Moses.
Reminder: It serves as a reminder to both Moses and Pharaoh of the divine power that backs Moses' demands. The serpent transformation was a sign meant to convince the Israelites and Pharaoh of Moses' divine commission.
Warning: It's a subtle, yet potent, threat. The rod represents the potential for further displays of God's power if Pharaoh refuses to listen.
In essence, this verse outlines a carefully planned encounter:
Strategic timing: Catching Pharaoh in his routine, when he might be more receptive (or at least less guarded).
Predictable location: Knowing where to find him.
Symbolic presentation: Bringing a tangible reminder of God's power.
This sets the stage for Moses to deliver God's message to Pharaoh, demanding the release of the Israelites and warning of the consequences if he refuses. It shows that God is not just demanding, but also orchestrating the encounter to maximize its impact. It emphasizes that this is not just a political negotiation, but a confrontation between God's will and Pharaoh's defiance.
This verse from Exodus 7:15 is a specific instruction from God to Moses and Aaron about how to approach Pharaoh to demand the release of the Israelites from slavery. Let's break down the meaning:
"Go to Pharaoh in the morning.": This specifies the time of day Moses and Aaron should approach Pharaoh. The morning was likely a time when Pharaoh would be more accessible before the day's official duties began.
"Behold, he goes out to the water": This indicates Pharaoh's routine. He regularly went to the Nile River in the morning. This could have been for religious reasons (worshiping the Nile as a god), for hygiene, or simply for a walk by the water. This detail provides Moses and Aaron with a predictable location to find him.
"and you shall stand by the river’s bank to meet him": Moses and Aaron are instructed to position themselves specifically by the riverbank to intercept Pharaoh. They are to be there, waiting for him when he arrives.
"and the rod which was turned to a serpent you shall take in your hand": This is a crucial instruction. The rod that had previously been transformed into a serpent (Exodus 4:2-5) is to be taken as a symbol of God's power. This serves multiple purposes:
Authority: The rod is a symbol of God's authority and power given to Moses.
Reminder: It serves as a reminder to both Moses and Pharaoh of the divine power that backs Moses' demands. The serpent transformation was a sign meant to convince the Israelites and Pharaoh of Moses' divine commission.
Warning: It's a subtle, yet potent, threat. The rod represents the potential for further displays of God's power if Pharaoh refuses to listen.
In essence, this verse outlines a carefully planned encounter:
Strategic timing: Catching Pharaoh in his routine, when he might be more receptive (or at least less guarded).
Predictable location: Knowing where to find him.
Symbolic presentation: Bringing a tangible reminder of God's power.
This sets the stage for Moses to deliver God's message to Pharaoh, demanding the release of the Israelites and warning of the consequences if he refuses. It shows that God is not just demanding, but also orchestrating the encounter to maximize its impact. It emphasizes that this is not just a political negotiation, but a confrontation between God's will and Pharaoh's defiance.