And Moses returned unto the LORD, and said, Lord, wherefore hast thou so evil entreated this people? why is it that thou hast sent me?

EXODUS 5:22KJV
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Exodus 5:22 (KJV)

What does Exodus 5:22 mean?

Exodus 5:22 shows Moses turning to the LORD and asking why the people of Israel are being treated so harshly and why he was sent if things have only gotten worse. Moses openly questions God about the suffering of the Israelites and his own role in their troubles.

In this verse, Moses is speaking directly to the LORD after Pharaoh has increased the burdens on the Israelites instead of letting them go. Moses’ words reveal his confusion and distress, as he cannot understand why God’s command to confront Pharaoh has led to more suffering for his people. This moment highlights Moses’ honesty with God and the real struggle of faith when things do not go as expected.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 5:22

  • LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the special covenant name for God, often rendered as "the LORD" in English Bibles. Moses is addressing God personally and directly, not just a generic deity.
  • Lord (אֲדֹנָי, Adonai): Moses uses a respectful title for God, showing both reverence and a sense of pleading. This word emphasizes Moses’ humility and dependence as he questions God.
  • entreated (הֵרַע, hera‘): This word means to do evil or bring harm. Moses is not accusing God of evil but is expressing how things appear from his perspective—the people are suffering more, and he cannot see the good in it.
  • sent (שָׁלַח, shalach): This word means to send out or commission. Moses is questioning the purpose of his mission, since it seems to have made things worse rather than better.

Why Exodus 5:22 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that biblical leaders always have unwavering faith; Moses’ honest questioning shows that even those closest to God can struggle with doubt and confusion.
  • Exodus 5:22 highlights the tension between God’s promises and present reality, helping readers understand the emotional and spiritual challenges faced by the Israelites and their leader.
  • The verse connects to the wider story by setting up God’s response in the following chapters, where God reassures Moses and explains His plan, showing that questioning can be a step toward deeper understanding.