King James Version

What Does Exodus 5:6 Mean?

“And Pharaoh commanded the same day the taskmasters of the people, and their officers, saying,”

Context

And the king of Egypt said unto them, Wherefore do ye, Moses and Aaron, let the people from their works? get you unto your burdens.

And Pharaoh said, Behold, the people of the land now are many, and ye make them rest from their burdens.

And Pharaoh commanded the same day the taskmasters of the people, and their officers, saying,

Ye shall no more give the people straw to make brick, as heretofore : let them go and gather straw for themselves.

And the tale of the bricks, which they did make heretofore , ye shall lay upon them; ye shall not diminish ought thereof: for they be idle; therefore they cry, saying, Let us go and sacrifice to our God.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(6) **Taskmasters . . . officers.**—Three grades of officials are mentioned as employed in superintending the forced labours of the Hebrews—(1) “lords of service” (*sarey massim*)*,* in Exodus 1:11; (2) “taskmasters” (*nogeshim*)*,* here and in Exodus 5:10; Exodus 5:13-14; and (3) “officers”—literally, *scribes *(*shoterim*)*,* here and in Exodus 5:11-21. The “lords of service” were probably a small body who exercised a general superintendence, and determined the works in which the Hebrews should be employed. They were, no doubt, native Egyptians. The *nogeshim,* or “taskmasters,” were their subordinates—Egyptians like themselves—comparatively numerous, and serving as intermediaries between the “lords” and the “officers.” These last were Hebrews, and engaged mainly in keeping the tale of the bricks, and seeing that the proper number was reached. Such an organisation is consonant with all that we know of the Egyptian governmental system, which was bureaucratic and complex, involving in every department the employment of several grades of officials.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 5:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.