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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Exodus 1:1–7.
In these verses we have, 1. A recital of the names of the twelve patriarchs, as they are called, Act 7:8. Their names are often repeated in scripture, that they may not sound uncouth to us, as other hard names, but that, by their occurring so frequently, they may become familiar to us; and to show how precious God's spiritual Israel are to him, and how much he delights in them. The account which was kept of the number of Jacob's family, when they went down into Egypt; they were in all seventy souls (Exo 1:5). according to the computation we had, Gen 46:27. This was just the number of the nations by which the earth was peopled, according to the account given, Gen. 10. For when the Most High separated the sons of Adam, he set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel, as Moses observes, Deu 32:8. Notice is here taken of this that their increase in Egypt might appear the more wonderful. Note, It is good for those whose latter end greatly increases often to remember how small their beginning was, Job 8:7. 3. The death of Joseph, Exo 1:6. All that generation by degrees wore off. Perhaps all Jacob's sons died much about the same time; for there was not more than seven years' difference in age between the eldest and the youngest of them, except Benjamin; and, when death comes into a family, sometimes it makes a full end in a little time. When Joseph, the stay of the family, died, the rest went off apace. Note, We must look upon ourselves and our brethren, and all we converse with, as dying and hastening out of the world. This generation passeth away, as that did which went before. 4. The strange increase of Israel in Egypt, Exo 1:7. Here are four words used to express it: They were fruitful, and increased abundantly, like fishes or insects, so that they multiplied; and, being generally healthful and strong, they waxed exceedingly mighty, so that they began almost to outnumber the natives, for the land was in all places filled with them, at least Goshen, their own allotment. Observe, (1.) Though, no doubt, they increased considerably before, yet, it should seem, it was not till after the death of Joseph that it began to be taken notice of as extraordinary. Thus, when they lost the benefit of his protection, God made their numbers their defence, and they became better able than they had been to shift for themselves. If God continue our friends and relations to us while we most need them, and remove them when they can be better spared, let us own that he is wise, and not complain that he is hard upon us. After the death of Christ, our Joseph, his gospel Israel began most remarkably to increase: and his death had an influence upon it; it was like the sowing of a corn of wheat, which, if it die, bringeth forth much fruit, Joh 12:24. (2.) This wonderful increase was the fulfillment of the promise long before made unto the fathers. From the call of Abraham, when God first told him he would make of him a great nation, to the deliverance of his seed out of Egypt, it was 430 years, during the first 215 of which they were increased but to seventy, but, in the latter half, those seventy multiplied to 600,000 fighting men. Note, [1.] Sometimes God's providences may seem for a great while to thwart his promises, and to go counter to them, that his people's faith may be tried, and his own power the more magnified. [2.] Though the performance of God's promises is sometimes slow, yet it is always sure; at the end it shall speak, and not lie, Hab 2:3.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
We have heard in the lesson which was read, dearly beloved, that “when Joseph was dead, the Israelites were exceedingly fruitful and prolific, and they sprang up like grass.” What does this mean, brethren? As long as Joseph lived the children of Israel are not recorded to have increased or multiplied very much, but after he died they are said to have sprung up like the grass. Surely they should have increased and multiplied more when they were under the patronage and protection of Joseph. These words were prefigured in that Joseph, dearly beloved; but in our Joseph, that is, in Christ the Lord, they were fulfilled in truth. Before our Joseph died, that is, before he was crucified, few people believed in him, but after he died and rose again throughout the world the Israelites, that is, the Christian people, increased and multiplied. Thus even the Lord himself says in the Gospel: “Unless the grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone. But if it dies, it brings forth much fruit.” After the precious grain of wheat died and was buried through the passion, from that one grain a harvest of the church sprang up throughout the world. Not as formerly was “God renowned in Judah” alone, nor is “his great name” worshiped only “in Israel”; but “from the rising of the sun unto the going down” his name is praised.
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Summary
Exodus 1:7 powerfully describes the astounding demographic expansion of the Israelites in Egypt, transforming Jacob's small family into an immense and formidable population. This extraordinary proliferation, a direct and visible fulfillment of God's ancient covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, establishes the crucial context for the subsequent narrative of severe oppression and miraculous divine deliverance that unfolds in the book of Exodus.
Context
Literary Context
Exodus 1:7 serves as a pivotal transition from the patriarchal narratives of Genesis to the national saga of Israel's liberation. Following the detailed account of Jacob's family entering Egypt in Genesis 46, this verse bridges the gap of several centuries, summarizing the silent but profound demographic shift that occurred between the death of Joseph and the rise of a new Pharaoh. It immediately precedes the introduction of the new king who "knew not Joseph" (Exodus 1:8), setting the stage for the escalating conflict between the burgeoning Israelite population and the fearful Egyptian regime. The verse's emphasis on rapid, almost miraculous growth provides the necessary background for understanding Pharaoh's subsequent oppressive measures, which are explicitly motivated by the Israelites' overwhelming numbers and strength, as articulated in Exodus 1:9-10.
Historical & Cultural Context
The historical setting is ancient Egypt, likely during the period between the Middle Kingdom and the New Kingdom, though specific pharaohs are not named. The Israelites, initially welcomed into the fertile land of Goshen during Joseph's time, would have lived as a distinct, semi-nomadic group within the larger Egyptian society. The phrase "the land was filled with them" suggests that their presence had become significant and noticeable, particularly in the delta region where Goshen was located. Egyptian culture was highly stratified and often suspicious of large, distinct foreign populations. The rise of a "new king" who "knew not Joseph" indicates a shift in dynastic power or policy, possibly reflecting a period of xenophobia or a desire to consolidate power and control resources, leading to the perception of the Israelites as a potential threat rather than an asset.
Key Themes
Exodus 1:7 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of Divine Covenant Faithfulness, as the verse directly demonstrates God's unwavering commitment to His promise to Abraham that his descendants would be numerous, as seen in passages like Genesis 12:2 and Genesis 22:17. It also highlights God's Sovereignty over History, showing that even in a foreign land and under changing political landscapes, God actively orchestrates the proliferation of His chosen people, preparing them to become a nation. Furthermore, the verse introduces the theme of Blessing as a Catalyst for Conflict, as the very success of Israel's multiplication becomes the direct cause of Egyptian fear and subsequent oppression, setting in motion the dramatic events of the Exodus.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From a primitive root meaning "to bear fruit (literally or figuratively)." This word echoes the original creation mandate to "be fruitful and multiply" given to humanity in Genesis 1:28 and specifically to Noah in Genesis 9:1. Its use here emphasizes the natural, life-giving increase, often associated with divine blessing and productivity.
A primitive root meaning "to wriggle, i.e. (by implication) swarm or abound." This verb is often used in the Old Testament to describe the teeming abundance of living creatures, such as fish in the sea or insects, as seen in Genesis 1:20. Its application to the Israelites underscores an almost overwhelming, rapid, and prolific multiplication, suggesting a vitality and quantity that is truly extraordinary and perhaps even unsettling to onlookers.
A primitive root meaning "to bind fast, i.e. close (the eyes); intransitively, to be (causatively, make) powerful or numerous." When used with "exceeding" (mᵉʼôd), it signifies not merely numerical growth but also an increase in strength, influence, and perhaps even physical robustness. This term indicates that the Israelites were not just many, but they were also becoming a formidable and significant presence, posing a perceived threat due to their sheer numbers and inherent strength.
Verse Breakdown
"And the children of Israel were fruitful,"
This opening clause establishes the initial state of the Israelite population's growth. It signifies a natural, God-given capacity for procreation and expansion, aligning with the divine blessing of fertility bestowed upon humanity and specifically upon the patriarchs. It implies a healthy and thriving community.
"and increased abundantly,"
This phrase intensifies the description of growth, using a verb (Hebrew shârats) that conveys a sense of teeming, swarming, or multiplying profusely. It suggests a rapid, almost unstoppable proliferation, emphasizing the sheer volume and speed of their population increase beyond mere natural reproduction.
"and multiplied,"
This third verb further reinforces the theme of numerical expansion. It indicates a consistent and significant increase in their numbers, building upon the previous descriptions to underscore the overwhelming nature of their demographic boom. The cumulative effect of these verbs paints a picture of exponential growth.
"and waxed exceeding mighty;"
This clause shifts the focus from mere quantity to quality and influence. The phrase "exceeding mighty" (Hebrew 'atsam me'od') indicates that the Israelites were not only numerous but also becoming powerful, strong, and perhaps even formidable. This growing strength, a direct result of their multiplication, would soon be perceived as a threat by the Egyptians.
"and the land was filled with them."
This final clause describes the ultimate outcome of their prolific growth. It vividly portrays the extent of their population, indicating that they had spread throughout the region of Goshen, making their presence deeply felt and highly visible. This "filling" of the land serves as a powerful visual metaphor for their overwhelming numbers and sets the immediate stage for the Egyptian response.
Literary Devices
Exodus 1:7 employs several powerful literary devices to convey the extraordinary growth of the Israelite population. The most prominent is Repetition and Climax, evident in the cascade of four distinct verbs—"fruitful," "increased abundantly," "multiplied," and "waxed exceeding mighty." This cumulative effect builds a sense of overwhelming and divinely orchestrated expansion, culminating in the declaration of their formidable strength. The use of Hyperbole or strong Exaggeration in the phrase "the land was filled with them" vividly paints a picture of their vast numbers, even if it refers specifically to Goshen. This phrase also serves as Foreshadowing, subtly hinting at the future conflict, as such a numerous and strong foreign population would inevitably be perceived as a threat by the ruling powers. While not explicitly stated, the miraculous nature of this growth implies a Divine Passive, where God is the unseen agent behind this demographic explosion, fulfilling His covenant promises.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Exodus 1:7 stands as a profound testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises. The miraculous multiplication of Israel in Egypt, despite their enslaved status and the passage of centuries, demonstrates that God's word is sovereign and unstoppable. This growth proves that God actively remembers and works for His people, even when they are in dire circumstances, laying the foundation for their identity as a distinct nation chosen by Him. It underscores the truth that God's blessings can be so immense that they paradoxically trigger opposition, yet even this opposition serves His greater redemptive purposes.
Reflection and Application
Exodus 1:7 offers profound encouragement for believers today, reminding us of God's unfailing faithfulness to His promises, even when circumstances appear bleak or His people face adversity. It underscores that God's sovereign plans are unstoppable, and His word will always accomplish its intended purpose, regardless of human opposition or the passage of time. Just as the Israelites' growth led to challenges that ultimately served God's greater redemptive plan, we can trust that God's blessings in our lives, even if they lead to unexpected difficulties, are always working towards His ultimate glory and our good. This verse calls us to cultivate patience and faith, knowing that God is actively working behind the scenes, fulfilling His purposes in ways we may not immediately perceive. It also challenges us to recognize that God's blessings are not merely for our comfort but often prepare us for greater responsibilities or trials, through which His power can be more fully displayed.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is the rapid growth of Israel emphasized so strongly?
The strong emphasis on Israel's rapid growth serves multiple crucial purposes. Theologically, it highlights God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, specifically concerning their numerous descendants, as found in passages like Genesis 15:5. Historically, it provides the essential context for understanding how a small family of seventy souls could transform into a formidable nation, thereby explaining Pharaoh's subsequent fear and the ensuing enslavement. It also underscores the miraculous nature of God's blessing, demonstrating His power to transform a vulnerable group into a powerful and populous people, setting the stage for their national identity.
How does "the land was filled with them" relate to the land of Egypt?
While the phrase "the land was filled with them" might, at first glance, suggest that the Israelites had spread throughout all of Egypt, it primarily refers to the land of Goshen. Goshen was the fertile delta region specifically allocated to them by Pharaoh during Joseph's time, as detailed in Genesis 47:6. This area became densely populated by the Israelites, making their presence highly visible and significant. Their concentration in this agriculturally rich region, combined with their rapid growth, made them appear as a substantial and potentially threatening demographic force to the new Egyptian regime, leading to the policies of oppression described in Exodus 1:9-11.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Exodus 1:7, while describing the physical multiplication of Abraham's descendants, finds its ultimate and profound spiritual fulfillment in Christ. The promise of a numerous "seed" or offspring, initially realized in the nation of Israel, is vastly expanded through the person and work of Jesus Christ to encompass all believers. In the New Testament, Paul clarifies that those who have faith in Christ are considered the true spiritual offspring of Abraham, regardless of their ethnic background, as powerfully articulated in Galatians 3:29. Just as Israel supernaturally grew into a mighty nation, the Church, the body of Christ, has multiplied across the earth, demonstrating God's ongoing power to gather a vast people for Himself from "every tribe and language and people and nation" (Revelation 5:9), transcending all ethnic and national boundaries. This global spiritual expansion, centered entirely in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, is the ultimate and glorious fulfillment of God's ancient promise of a fruitful and multiplied people.