Exodus 1:10

Letters to the Faithful - Exodus 1:10

Berean Standard Bible

Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, or they will increase even more; and if a war breaks out, they may join our enemies, fight against us, and leave the country.”

King James Bible

Come on, let us deal wisely with them; lest they multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there falleth out any war, they join also unto our enemies, and fight against us, and so get them up out of the land.

Hebrew Text:

הָבָה נִתְחַכְּמָה לוֹ פֶּן־יִרְבֶּה וְהָיָה כִּי־תִקְרֶאנָה מִלְחָמָה וְנֹוסַף גַּם־הוּא עַל־שֹׂנְאֵינוּ וְנִלְחַם־בָּנוּ וְעָלָה מִן־הָאָרֶץ׃

Transliteration:

Havah nitchakemah lo, pen yirbeh, ve-hayah ki tikrena milchamah, ve-nosaf gam hu al soneinu, ve-nilcham banu, ve-alah min ha-aretz.

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Come, let us deal shrewdly with them

This phrase reflects the Egyptian Pharaoh's strategic and cunning approach to the growing population of the Israelites. The use of "deal shrewdly" indicates a calculated plan to suppress the Israelites, who were seen as a threat due to their rapid multiplication. This echoes the serpent's cunning in Genesis 3:1, where deceit and manipulation are used to achieve a desired outcome. The Pharaoh's fear-driven policy contrasts with God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:2, where God promises to make Abraham's descendants a great nation.

or they will increase even more

The concern over the Israelites' increasing numbers highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). This growth is seen as a divine blessing, yet it becomes a source of fear for the Egyptians. The tension between divine blessing and human fear is a recurring theme in the Bible, illustrating how God's plans often transcend human understanding and control.

and if a war breaks out

This phrase suggests a fear of potential conflict, possibly with neighboring nations or internal uprisings. Historically, Egypt was a powerful empire, but it faced threats from surrounding regions. The Pharaoh's concern reflects a common ancient Near Eastern practice of preemptively dealing with potential threats to maintain power and stability. This fear of war underscores the political and military tensions of the time.

they may join our enemies

The possibility of the Israelites allying with Egypt's enemies reveals the Pharaoh's paranoia and distrust. This fear of betrayal is reminiscent of later biblical narratives, such as the alliances and conflicts during the reigns of the kings of Israel and Judah. It also foreshadows the Israelites' eventual role in God's plan to establish a kingdom that transcends earthly alliances.

fight against us

The fear of the Israelites turning against the Egyptians highlights the potential for internal rebellion. This concern is rooted in the Egyptians' awareness of the Israelites' growing strength and numbers. It reflects a broader biblical theme of the oppressed rising against their oppressors, as seen in the eventual Exodus from Egypt, which is a type of Christ's deliverance of humanity from sin.

and leave the country

The fear of the Israelites leaving Egypt points to the economic and labor implications for the Egyptians. The Israelites were a significant labor force, and their departure would have had a substantial impact on Egypt's economy. This foreshadows the eventual Exodus, where God delivers His people from bondage, symbolizing spiritual liberation. The departure from Egypt is a precursor to the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who frees believers from the bondage of sin.

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The text of Exodus 1:10, as presented in the New International Version, reads: “Come, we must deal shrewdly with them or they will become even more numerous and, if war breaks out, will join our enemies, fight against us and leave the country.” This verse, situated in the opening chapter of Exodus, captures the fear and oppressive strategy of a new Pharaoh who seeks to control the growing Israelite population in Egypt. As a pivotal moment in the narrative, it sets the stage for the story of Israel’s enslavement, deliverance, and covenant relationship with God. To fully explore its theological significance, we must examine its literary and historical context, its connections to the broader biblical narrative, its theological implications for God’s sovereignty and human opposition, and its practical relevance for understanding oppression and divine deliverance, while attending to the nuances of the Hebrew text and its role within the redemptive arc of Scripture.

Exodus 1:1-22 introduces the book by recounting the transition from Israel’s favored status under Joseph to their oppression under a new Pharaoh “who did not know Joseph” (1:8). Verses 1-7 describe the Israelites’ remarkable growth, fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham that his descendants would become a great nation (Genesis 12:2; 15:5). However, this growth provokes fear in the Egyptian leadership, leading to the strategic oppression outlined in verse 10. The speaker is Pharaoh, addressing his people, likely his advisors or officials, as he formulates a plan to curb the perceived threat of the Israelites. The verse is part of a broader narrative unit (1:8-14) that details the escalation of oppression, from forced labor to harsher measures, setting the stage for God’s intervention through Moses. The historical context likely reflects the period of the New Kingdom in Egypt (c. 1550-1070 BCE), possibly under the 18th or 19th Dynasty, when foreign populations like the Hyksos had previously ruled and left Egypt wary of resident aliens.

In the Hebrew text, the verse reads: HavahONU havah ne’aseh lahem chokhmah pen-yirbeh vayyigash qerav venilchamu banu ve’alu min-ha’aretz. The imperative havah (“come”) signals Pharaoh’s urgent call to action, while ne’aseh lahem chokhmah (“we must deal shrewdly with them”) reveals his intent to use cunning or wisdom (chokhmah) to control the Israelites. The verb yirbeh (“they will become numerous”) reflects Pharaoh’s fear of their population growth, echoing the language of Genesis 1:28 and 9:7, where multiplication is a divine blessing. The phrase pen-yigash qerav (“if war breaks out”) introduces a hypothetical scenario, suggesting Pharaoh’s paranoia about external threats. The verbs nilchamu banu (“fight against us”) and ve’alu min-ha’aretz (“leave the country”) highlight his dual fears of rebellion and loss of labor. The term chokhmah is ironic, as it typically denotes godly wisdom in the Old Testament (e.g., Proverbs 1:7), but here it is twisted to describe oppressive cunning, highlighting the moral corruption of human power apart from God.

Theologically, Exodus 1:10 reveals the tension between human opposition and God’s sovereign plan. Pharaoh’s fear-driven strategy to suppress Israel’s growth directly challenges God’s covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to multiply their descendants (Genesis 17:6; 28:14). His attempt to “deal shrewdly” reflects the hubris of human rulers who seek to control what God has ordained, a theme recurring throughout Scripture (e.g., Psalm 2:1-4; Acts 4:25-27). Theologically, this sets up a narrative of divine providence, as God’s plan to make Israel a great nation prevails despite Pharaoh’s efforts, demonstrated in the failure of his policies (Exodus 1:12, 20). The verse also foreshadows the futility of opposing God’s will, as the Israelites’ multiplication continues, leading to their eventual deliverance (Exodus 12:31-42). This reflects a broader biblical motif: human powers, no matter how formidable, cannot thwart God’s redemptive purposes (Isaiah 46:10; Romans 8:28).

The verse resonates with the broader biblical narrative, particularly the Joseph cycle in Genesis. Joseph’s favor in Egypt (Genesis 41:41-45) contrasts sharply with the new Pharaoh’s ignorance or rejection of that history (Exodus 1:8), illustrating the fragility of human favor and the vulnerability of God’s people in a fallen world. Pharaoh’s fear of the Israelites joining “our enemies” echoes ancient Near Eastern anxieties about internal rebellion, a concern rooted in Egypt’s historical experience with foreign rulers. However, this fear is unfounded, as the Israelites had no such intention, highlighting the irrationality of prejudice and oppression. Theologically, this points to the fallen human tendency to fear and oppress the “other,” a sin that distorts God’s design for human flourishing (Genesis 1:27-28). The verse also anticipates the exodus, where God’s power overcomes Pharaoh’s resistance (Exodus 14:13-14), prefiguring Christ’s victory over the powers of sin and death (Colossians 2:15).

The cultural context of Exodus 1:10 underscores its significance. In ancient Egypt, the pharaoh was considered a divine figure, a “son of Ra,” whose authority was absolute. His command to oppress the Israelites reflects a deified ruler’s attempt to assert control over God’s people, setting up a cosmic conflict between human and divine authority. The Israelites, as a foreign labor force, were likely seen as a threat to Egypt’s economic and political stability, especially given their growth in Goshen, a fertile region. Pharaoh’s strategy of shrewd oppression—enslavement followed by infanticide (1:15-16)—parallels other biblical examples of rulers targeting God’s people, such as Herod’s slaughter of the innocents (Matthew 2:16). Theologically, this illustrates the enmity between the seed of the serpent and the seed of the woman (Genesis 3:15), a conflict ultimately resolved in Christ’s redemptive work.

Practically, Exodus 1:10 challenges believers to recognize and resist systems of oppression that stem from fear and pride. Pharaoh’s actions reflect a mindset that dehumanizes others for self-preservation, a sin that persists in modern forms of prejudice, exploitation, and systemic injustice. The verse calls Christians to advocate for the marginalized, trusting in God’s sovereignty to overcome oppressive powers (Psalm 82:3-4; James 1:27). It also offers hope to those under oppression, as God’s faithfulness to Israel assures His presence with His people in their suffering (Isaiah 43:2; Matthew 28:20). The failure of Pharaoh’s plan underscores the biblical promise that God works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28), encouraging perseverance in faith.

Eschatologically, the verse points to the ultimate triumph of God’s kingdom. Pharaoh’s attempt to prevent Israel’s growth prefigures the resistance of worldly powers to God’s redemptive plan, from Babylon (Daniel 3:8-12) to the Roman Empire (Acts 12:1-3). Yet, Revelation 11:15 proclaims that “the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah,” assuring believers of God’s final victory. For the original Israelite audience, likely in exile or post-exilic reflection, this verse would have reinforced their identity as God’s chosen people, destined for deliverance despite human opposition. For contemporary readers, it challenges reliance on worldly power and calls for trust in God’s providence.

In conclusion, Exodus 1:10 is a theologically profound verse that reveals the futility of human opposition to God’s covenantal promises. Pharaoh’s fearful and shrewd plan to oppress the Israelites sets the stage for the exodus narrative, highlighting God’s sovereignty over human rulers and His faithfulness to His people. Rooted in the historical and cultural context of ancient Egypt, the verse resonates with the biblical themes of divine providence, the sin of oppression, and the hope of deliverance. It challenges believers to resist injustice, trust in God’s plan, and hope in the ultimate triumph of His kingdom, fulfilled in Christ, who delivers His people from the bondage of sin and death. As a cornerstone of the exodus story, Exodus 1:10 invites reflection on God’s power to overcome the schemes of the powerful and His commitment to the flourishing of His covenant people.

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Brothers and sisters in Christ,

grace and peace be with you all.

Today we gather around the living Word of God, a Word that has never lost its power to speak into our time. The Scriptures are not ancient relics; they are the voice of the Eternal breaking into our present lives. As we meditate upon a single verse — Exodus chapter 1, verse 10 — we are invited to step into the timeless drama of God’s people and to hear the Spirit’s voice calling us to vigilance, to faith, and to love.

The verse before us is a dark one. It is the whisper of fear and pride clothed in political strategy. The new Pharaoh, a king who did not know Joseph nor remember what the God of Israel had done for Egypt, looked upon the people of Israel with suspicion. Though the Israelites had multiplied and flourished by God’s blessing, the heart of Pharaoh was consumed not with wonder, but with dread. “Come, let us deal shrewdly with them,” he said, “lest they increase and join our enemies and fight against us and escape from the land.”

Here is the ancient pattern of oppression. It begins with fear — fear of the other, fear of losing power, fear of change. From fear is born suspicion, and from suspicion, ruthless policies take root. The Egyptians saw the Israelites not as neighbors, not as fellow human beings, but as a problem to be managed, a threat to be contained. What had been a blessing — their fruitfulness and growth — became, through the lens of fear, a danger to be neutralized.

And is this not still the way of the world? Throughout history and into our present day, we see it repeated: when a people or a movement grows strong, when God’s hand of blessing is upon them, the forces of darkness often arise to resist. The enemy sows fear where there ought to be joy. Pharaoh’s voice echoes in boardrooms and backrooms, in governments and in gossip: “Let us deal shrewdly with them.”

But we, the people of God, must not be naive. We must recognize that this world will not always celebrate the light. When God’s blessing rests upon His people, the enemy is stirred. The Church grows — and opposition arises. The Gospel advances — and persecution follows. The Spirit breathes life — and the world’s powers plot to suppress it. None of this should surprise us. The Lord Jesus told us plainly: “If the world hates you, know that it hated Me before it hated you” (John 15:18).

Yet though Pharaoh’s schemes were born of fear, they could not thwart the purposes of God. The more the Israelites were oppressed, the more they multiplied. The fires of affliction only refined and strengthened them. The Lord was with them in their suffering; He did not abandon His covenant people. And so too with us — we must hold fast to this truth. The schemes of this world, however cunning, cannot undo the plans of the Almighty. Though there may be seasons of hardship, the Lord remains faithful. His promises are sure.

What then is our response as the Church today? First, we must not be caught unaware. We must discern the Pharaohs of our time — those voices and forces that seek to marginalize, to silence, to oppress the people of God. We must be wise, as Jesus taught us: “Be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). Not naive, but not embittered. We are not called to match the world’s shrewdness with cynicism, but with the wisdom and purity that comes from above.

Second, we must remember that fruitfulness is our calling. The Israelites were fruitful because the blessing of God was upon them. So too, the Church must multiply — in love, in good works, in witness, in making disciples. Our calling is not to retreat in fear, but to go forth in boldness. When opposition comes, it must not cause us to shrink back, but to press on, trusting that God can turn even adversity into an instrument for His glory.

Third, and most importantly, we must respond to fear with love. Pharaoh feared the Israelites because he did not understand them. Fear breeds suspicion and hatred. But perfect love casts out fear. The Church must be a beacon of love in a fearful world. We must love our enemies. We must love those who misunderstand us. We must love those who would seek to “deal shrewdly” with us. For in doing so, we reveal the heart of our God — a God who did not deal shrewdly with us in our sin, but dealt mercifully, offering His own Son for our redemption.

Beloved, let us not grow weary in doing good. Let us remember that though Pharaoh may plot, God reigns. Though the world may oppose, Christ has overcome the world. Though there may be seasons of hardship, the Holy Spirit is our Comforter, our Strength, and our Guide.

Look to the cross — where the schemes of men met the wisdom of God. There, in apparent defeat, came eternal victory. And look to the empty tomb — where no power on earth could hold back the life of the risen Christ.

So now, we go forth in hope. We go forth as a people of love. We go forth with eyes wide open and hearts ablaze, knowing that He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world.

To God be all glory, forever and ever. Amen.

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Almighty and Everlasting God,

Maker of heaven and earth,

Ruler over all the nations,

Lord of history and the God of the future—

we come before You with reverence and awe, with trembling hearts and uplifted hands, knowing that You are the same yesterday, today, and forever. The words of Scripture echo through time, and we hear them today with fresh urgency: “Come, let us deal shrewdly with them.”

O Lord, how often the powers of this world conspire against Your people. How often fear and pride twist the hearts of rulers and authorities. How often men scheme in the darkness to silence the voices that proclaim Your truth. Yet You, O God, sit enthroned above it all. You laugh at the vain plots of the nations; You stretch forth Your mighty hand and bring forth Your purposes despite the plans of men.

Today we pray, Father, that You would open our eyes to the schemes of the enemy. Let us not walk in ignorance or naivety. Teach us to discern the times. Teach us to recognize when Pharaoh’s spirit stirs again — in boardrooms, in legislatures, in media, in the undercurrents of culture. Grant us wisdom that is not of this world, but which comes down from above — pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruit.

Yet Lord, we confess: it is easy to respond in the flesh. It is easy to return shrewdness for shrewdness, to meet fear with fear, to allow bitterness to take root. Forgive us, O God, when we have been more concerned with self-preservation than with faithful witness. Forgive us when we have sought worldly strategies instead of Kingdom wisdom. Forgive us when our hearts have grown cold toward those who oppose us.

Renew us, Holy Spirit. Fill us again with the love of Christ — a love that casts out fear, a love that overcomes evil with good, a love that seeks not revenge but reconciliation. May we be a people marked not by panic, but by peace; not by cunning, but by courage; not by resentment, but by relentless grace.

Lord Jesus, we remember that You too were conspired against. The rulers of this world sought to deal shrewdly with You. They plotted in secret, they spread lies, they nailed You to a cross. Yet through their schemes, You brought salvation. Through their cruelty, You brought life. Through apparent defeat, You secured eternal victory. And now You reign, and no plot can unseat You.

So we ask, King Jesus, strengthen Your Church in this generation. When opposition arises, give us endurance. When lies are spoken, make us steadfast in truth. When we are misunderstood or maligned, let us respond with gentleness and respect. When we are pressured to compromise, anchor us in Your Word. When we are tempted to despair, lift our eyes to Your throne.

We pray for our brothers and sisters around the world who face the sharp edge of persecution even now. For those imprisoned for their faith — sustain them. For those driven from their homes — shelter them. For those facing death — crown them with courage and hope. May their witness be a light in the darkness, and may their faithfulness bear much fruit.

And we pray for those who oppose Your people, even as Pharaoh once did. Have mercy on them, Lord. Open blind eyes. Soften hardened hearts. Let those who now resist the Gospel become its most passionate proclaimers, as once You did with Saul of Tarsus. Nothing is impossible for You.

Father, we know that the world may deal shrewdly with us, but You deal faithfully with us. The world may scheme, but You are sovereign. The enemy may rage, but You have already triumphed. Let this truth be our anchor in every storm.

Send revival, O God. Let the Church rise in this hour, not in human strength, but in the power of Your Spirit. May we be a people of unwavering truth and unquenchable love. May we bear fruit even in the midst of opposition. May the fragrance of Christ fill every place where Your people dwell.

And in all things — in times of favor or in times of trial — may we glorify Your holy name. For Yours is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever.

Amen.