Exodus 5:21 (KJV)

What does Exodus 5:21 mean?

Exodus 5:21 shows the Israelite foremen blaming Moses and Aaron for making their situation worse with Pharaoh, saying that their actions have caused the Egyptians to hate them and given Pharaoh an excuse to harm them. The foremen ask God to judge Moses and Aaron for this outcome.

In this verse, the Israelite leaders are speaking directly to Moses and Aaron after Pharaoh increased their workload. The foremen feel betrayed and endangered, believing that Moses and Aaron’s request for freedom has only brought more suffering. Their words reveal fear, anger, and a sense of being trapped between Pharaoh’s cruelty and Moses’ leadership.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 5:21

• "savour" (רֵיחַ, rêach): This word literally means "smell" or "odor." Here, it is used figuratively to describe reputation or how someone is regarded. The foremen feel that Moses and Aaron have made them "stink" in Pharaoh’s eyes, meaning they have become detestable or despised.
• "abhorred" (בָּאַשׁ, ba’ash): This verb means "to stink" or "to be offensive." The foremen are saying their presence or reputation has become offensive to Pharaoh and his officials, not just disliked but actively repulsive.
• "put a sword in their hand" (נָתַן, nathan + חֶרֶב, cherev + יָד, yad): This phrase is vivid, meaning to give someone the means or excuse to do harm. The foremen accuse Moses and Aaron of giving Pharaoh a reason or opportunity to kill them.

Why Exodus 5:21 matters

• This verse clears up the misunderstanding that all Israelites immediately supported Moses; in reality, his actions first led to greater hardship and distrust among his own people.
• The language about "savour" and "abhorred" highlights how reputation and perception played a crucial role in their suffering, not just physical oppression.
• Exodus 5:21 connects to the wider passage by showing the tension and fear among the Israelites, setting the stage for Moses’ own doubts and God’s further intervention.