Exodus 6:12 (KJV)

What does Exodus 6:12 mean?

Exodus 6:12 shows Moses expressing his doubt to the LORD, saying that if the Israelites have not listened to him, then Pharaoh is even less likely to listen, especially since Moses sees himself as having "uncircumcised lips"—meaning he feels unqualified or unable to speak well. Moses is worried that his own limitations will prevent him from carrying out God’s command.

In this verse, Moses is speaking directly to the LORD (the personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible), after being told to confront Pharaoh again. The situation is tense: the Israelites are discouraged and have not responded to Moses’s message, and Moses feels inadequate for the task. The phrase "uncircumcised lips" is a vivid way for Moses to describe his sense of being unfit or unworthy as a spokesperson.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 6:12

• "uncircumcised" (עָרֵל, ‘arel): This word means "uncircumcised," often used for something closed off or not set apart. Here, Moses uses it about his "lips" (שָׂפָה, saphah), suggesting he feels his speech is blocked or unworthy, not just physically but in a spiritual or social sense.
• "hearkened" (שָׁמַע, shama‘): This word means "to listen" or "to obey." Moses points out that the Israelites have not listened to him, highlighting his lack of influence or authority in their eyes.
• "Pharaoh" (פַּרְעֹה, Par‘oh): The specific mention of Pharaoh emphasizes the challenge Moses faces. If his own people will not listen, he feels it is even less likely that the powerful Egyptian ruler will.

Why Exodus 6:12 matters

• This verse highlights Moses’s humility and self-doubt, showing that even great leaders in the Bible struggled with feelings of inadequacy.
• The phrase "uncircumcised lips" is unique and helps readers understand the depth of Moses’s anxiety about his ability to speak for God.
• Exodus 6:12 sets up the tension for what follows, as God responds to Moses’s concerns and continues to call him to lead, despite Moses’s fears.