And Moses said unto the LORD, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.

EXODUS 4:10KJV
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Exodus 4:10 (KJV)

What does Exodus 4:10 mean?

Exodus 4:10 shows Moses telling the LORD that he does not feel capable of speaking well, saying he is not eloquent and is slow of speech and tongue. Moses is expressing his insecurity and reluctance to take on the task God is giving him, feeling unqualified to speak as a leader.

In this verse, Moses is speaking directly to the LORD (God), responding to God's call for him to confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses points out his own weakness in speaking, emphasizing that he has never been good with words, even after God has spoken to him. This moment highlights Moses’ human hesitation and the real fear he feels about stepping into a public role.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 4:10

  • "LORD" (יְהוָה, Yahweh) and "Lord" (אֲדֹנָי, Adonai): Moses addresses God first with the divine name Yahweh, then with the respectful title Adonai, showing both reverence and a personal plea.
  • "Eloquent" (דָּבָר, davar): This word usually means "word" or "thing," but here it refers to being skillful or fluent in speech. Moses is saying he does not have the right words or the ability to speak them well.
  • "Slow" (כָּבֵד, kaved): This word means "heavy." Moses describes his speech and tongue as "heavy," a Hebrew way of saying he finds speaking difficult or burdensome, not just slow.
  • "Speech" (פֶּה, peh) and "tongue" (לָשׁוֹן, lashon): Moses uses both terms to stress his struggle with speaking, possibly hinting at a speech impediment or simply a lack of confidence in public speaking.

Why Exodus 4:10 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that biblical leaders were always confident or naturally gifted; Moses himself felt deeply inadequate for the task God gave him.
  • The emphasis on Moses’ "slow speech" shows that God’s choices do not depend on human ability, setting up the theme that God equips those He calls.
  • This verse connects to the wider passage by showing the beginning of Moses’ dialogue with God about his calling, leading to God’s reassurance and provision for Moses’ weakness.