King James Version
What Does Exodus 6:9 Mean?
“And Moses spake so unto the children of Israel: but they hearkened not unto Moses for anguish of spirit, and for cruel bondage. anguish: Heb. shortness, or, straitness”
Context
7
And I will take you to me for a people, and I will be to you a God: and ye shall know that I am the LORD your God, which bringeth you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.
8
And I will bring you in unto the land, concerning the which I did swear to give it to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob; and I will give it you for an heritage: I am the LORD. swear: Heb. lift up my hand
9
And Moses spake so unto the children of Israel: but they hearkened not unto Moses for anguish of spirit, and for cruel bondage. anguish: Heb. shortness, or, straitness
10
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
11
Go in, speak unto Pharaoh king of Egypt, that he let the children of Israel go out of his land.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(9) **They hearkened not.**—The second message was received in quite a different spirit from the first. Then “the people believed, and bowed their knees and worshipped” (Exodus 4:31). Now they could not even be induced to listen. But there is nothing strange in this. The reason is obvious. The first announcement of coming deliverance elated them with a hope to which they had been long strangers. Their spirits sprang to the message, and readily accepted it. But now they had been chilled by disappointment. The only result of their leader’s interference hitherto had been to increase their misery (Exodus 4:7-23). They had therefore lost heart, and could trust him no longer.
**Anguish of spirit.**—Heb., *shortness of breath.* (Comp. Job 21:4.) The expression points to extreme lassitude and depression.
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 6:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Exodus 6:9
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge