Exodus 6:30 (KJV)

What does Exodus 6:30 mean?

Exodus 6:30 records Moses’ objection to speaking to Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt. Moses sees his own speech as a barrier and asks why Pharaoh would listen to him.

Moses speaks “before the LORD,” responding to the instruction in verse 29. His phrase “uncircumcised lips” uses a bodily image to describe his difficulty as a speaker. His question puts that difficulty alongside the task of addressing a powerful ruler.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 6:30

• “uncircumcised” — עֲרַל (ʿaral): This word describes something uncircumcised. Applied to “lips,” it is a figure of speech often understood to mean that Moses regarded his speech as inadequate for the task.
• “hearken” — שָׁמַע (shamaʿ): This word can mean to hear, listen, or pay attention. Moses’ question concerns whether Pharaoh will listen to what he says, not merely whether Pharaoh will hear the sound of his voice.

Why Exodus 6:30 matters

• Moses’ objection comes after an earlier setback. In Exodus 6:9, the Israelites did not listen to Moses because of their distress and harsh labor; in verse 12, Moses asks how Pharaoh will listen if his own people have not.
• The verse leads into the LORD’s response about Moses’ role and Aaron’s help. In Exodus 7:1–2, Aaron is appointed to speak to Pharaoh what Moses tells him.