Exodus 6:13

KJV

And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, and gave them a charge unto the children of Israel, and unto Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the LORD {H3068} spake {H1696} unto Moses {H4872} and unto Aaron {H175}, and gave them a charge {H6680} unto the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}, and unto Pharaoh {H6547} king {H4428} of Egypt {H4714}, to bring {H3318} the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} out of the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But ADONAI spoke to Moshe and Aharon and gave them orders concerning both the people of Isra'el and Pharaoh, king of Egypt, to bring the people of Isra'el out of the land of Egypt.

Berean Standard Bible

Then the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron and gave them a charge concerning both the Israelites and Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring the Israelites out of the land of Egypt.

American Standard Version

And Jehovah spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, and gave them a charge unto the children of Israel, and unto Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 6:13 details the LORD's renewed and explicit commission to Moses and Aaron, charging them with the formidable task of leading the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage and confronting Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. This divine mandate reaffirms God's unwavering purpose to fulfill His covenant promises, despite previous setbacks and the discouragement of both the people and their leaders.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a profound divine encounter where the LORD reveals His name, "I am the LORD" ([Exodus 6:2](/exodus/6-2 "Exodus 6:2 - The LORD Reveals His Name")), and reiterates His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob ([Exodus 6:3-5](/exodus/6-3-5 "Exodus 6:3-5 - God's Covenant Reaffirmed")). Earlier attempts by Moses and Aaron to confront Pharaoh had only intensified Israel's suffering ([Exodus 5:6-9](/exodus/5-6-9 "Exodus 5:6-9 - Pharaoh Increases Israel's Burdens")), leading to deep despair among the Israelites and even Moses himself ([Exodus 5:22-23](/exodus/5-22-23 "Exodus 5:22-23 - Moses' Complaint to God")). In response to this discouragement, God provides a powerful assurance of His plan to deliver Israel "with a stretched out arm" ([Exodus 6:6](/exodus/6-6 "Exodus 6:6 - God's Promise of Deliverance")). Exodus 6:13 thus serves as the practical re-commissioning, re-empowering Moses and Aaron for the daunting task ahead, reinforcing their divine authority despite the challenging circumstances.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time of Exodus, Egypt was a dominant world power, and its Pharaoh was considered a divine or semi-divine figure, making a direct challenge to his authority a profound theological and political act. The Israelites were enslaved, a common practice in the ancient Near East, but their unique status as God's chosen people adds a distinct layer of significance to their liberation. The cultural understanding of "gods" and their perceived power would be directly challenged by YHWH's demonstration of supremacy over the Egyptian deities and Pharaoh himself, culminating in the plagues. This context highlights the immense spiritual and political stakes of the divine "charge" given to Moses and Aaron.

* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme of God's **Divine Sovereignty** is paramount in this passage, as YHWH asserts His authority over Pharaoh and the most powerful empire of the day, demonstrating His ability to fulfill His purposes despite all opposition (e.g., [Exodus 7:5](/exodus/7-5 "Exodus 7:5 - Egypt Shall Know I Am the LORD")). This ties directly into God's **Covenant Faithfulness**, where He remembers His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to bring their descendants into the promised land ([Exodus 6:4-5](/exodus/6-4-5 "Exodus 6:4-5 - God Remembers His Covenant")). The theme of **Deliverance and Redemption** is central, with the "bringing out" of Israel from Egypt foreshadowing greater spiritual liberation. Finally, the verse highlights the **Divine Commission of Leaders**, showing God's choice and empowerment of Moses and Aaron as His instruments for this monumental task, even when they feel inadequate ([Exodus 3:10](/exodus/3-10 "Exodus 3:10 - Moses' Initial Call")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** From H3068 (Yᵉhôvâh), meaning "the self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God." This refers to the covenant God of Israel, YHWH, emphasizing His eternal, self-sufficient nature and His specific relationship with His people. His speaking here is not merely a suggestion but an authoritative declaration from the ultimate sovereign.
* **spake (Hebrew, _dâbar'_):** From H1696 (dâbar), a primitive root meaning "to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak." This word implies a deliberate, orderly, and authoritative utterance. It's not a casual conversation but a formal declaration, underlining the weight and intentionality of God's communication to Moses and Aaron.
* **charge (Hebrew, _tsâvâh'_):** From H6680 (tsâvâh), meaning "to constitute, enjoin; appoint, (for-) bid, (give a) charge, (give in, send with) command(-er, -ment), send a messenger, put, (set) in order." This term signifies a binding, authoritative command or instruction from a superior. It transforms Moses and Aaron's mission from a suggestion into a divine mandate, empowering them with God's own authority and ensuring the seriousness of their task.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron":** This opening clause establishes the divine origin and authority of the commission. The mention of "the LORD" (YHWH, the covenant God) underscores the faithfulness and power behind the command. The direct address to both Moses and Aaron signifies their joint appointment and shared responsibility as God's chosen instruments, emphasizing the authenticity and weight of the message they are to convey.
* **"and gave them a charge":** The Hebrew term for "charge" (_tsâvâh_, H6680) denotes a powerful, non-negotiable command or directive from a superior authority. This is not a mere suggestion but a divine mandate, imbuing Moses and Aaron's mission with ultimate authority and purpose. It highlights God's active involvement in initiating and directing the deliverance, reassuring His servants of His backing.
* **"unto the children of Israel, and unto Pharaoh king of Egypt":** This phrase delineates the dual recipients and scope of the divine charge. Moses and Aaron are commissioned to communicate God's will both to their own people, the "children of Israel" (H1121, H3478), to encourage and prepare them for liberation, and to the oppressive "Pharaoh king of Egypt" (H6547, H4428, H4714), to demand their release. This dual focus underscores the comprehensive nature of their mission, encompassing both pastoral care for God's people and confrontational engagement with the world's powers.
* **"to bring the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt":** This concluding clause articulates the ultimate objective and unwavering divine purpose of the entire commission. Despite the initial resistance from Pharaoh and the despair of the Israelites following previous attempts, God's plan for their complete physical and spiritual deliverance from Egyptian bondage remains firm. This phrase emphasizes God's sovereignty and His unwavering faithfulness to His promises, demonstrating that He will accomplish His redemptive purposes through His chosen instruments, regardless of the obstacles.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 6:13 effectively employs several literary techniques to underscore its significance. The **Repetition** of "the children of Israel" twice within the verse serves to emphasize God's unwavering focus and commitment to His chosen people, highlighting that their liberation is the central aim of this divine mandate. The very act of God giving a "charge" (_tsâvâh_, H6680) functions as a powerful narrative device of **Divine Commission**, establishing Moses and Aaron's authority as divinely appointed agents and legitimizing their formidable task. This command also creates an implicit **Contrast** between the earthly power of "Pharaoh king of Egypt" and the supreme, unchallenged authority of "the LORD" (YHWH), who is capable of overriding any human opposition. Furthermore, the phrase "to bring the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt" serves as **Foreshadowing**, pointing not only to the imminent physical exodus but also to the broader biblical theme of God's redemptive work in liberating His people from bondage, a motif that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 6:13 stands as a powerful testament to God's **Divine Sovereignty** and His unwavering commitment to His redemptive purposes. Despite the formidable opposition of Pharaoh and the deep despair of the Israelites and their leaders, the LORD's "charge" unequivocally declares His ultimate control and His fixed plan to deliver His people. This divine mandate is a direct reaffirmation of God's **Covenant Faithfulness**, recalling His solemn promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to bring their descendants out of bondage and into the promised land. The commissioning of Moses and Aaron highlights the principle of **Divine Authority in Leadership**, emphasizing that their mission is not self-initiated but a direct, binding directive from the Almighty, thereby imbuing their task with ultimate legitimacy and divine backing. This dual responsibility—to minister to Israel and confront Pharaoh—also illuminates the multifaceted nature of God-ordained leadership, which often involves both nurturing the community of faith and boldly engaging with the world for truth and justice.

* [Exodus 6:6-8](/exodus/6-6-8 "God's Detailed Promises of Deliverance")
* [Exodus 3:10](/exodus/3-10 "Moses' Initial Divine Commission")
* [Psalm 105:26-27](/psalms/105-26-27 "God's Sending of Moses and Aaron")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 6:13 offers profound lessons for believers today. Just as Moses and Aaron received a renewed charge after facing significant discouragement, God often reaffirms His call and purpose for us even when we encounter obstacles or setbacks; our initial failures do not negate God's ultimate plan. This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God's authoritative commands, reminding us that when God gives a "charge," it is not optional but a sacred duty for those He has called. Furthermore, it encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that He is ultimately in control and will accomplish His purposes, even when the path seems impossible or overwhelming, and that He will equip those He calls to fulfill their divine assignments.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's re-commissioning of Moses and Aaron after their discouragement speak to your own experiences of setbacks in faith or ministry?**
* **What "charge" might God be giving you today, and how does the authority and purpose behind His command empower you to obey?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to trust more fully in God's sovereignty, knowing He will accomplish His purposes even when circumstances seem overwhelming?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the LORD giving a "charge" rather than a mere instruction?**

Answer: The Hebrew word _tsâvâh_ (צוה) for "charge" (H6680) denotes a strong, authoritative command or binding directive from a superior. It implies a non-negotiable mandate, emphasizing the divine authority behind Moses and Aaron's mission and the serious, divinely appointed nature of their task. It assures them that their mission is God's will, not merely their own initiative.

**Why are both Moses and Aaron specifically mentioned in this commission?**

Answer: The mention of both Moses and Aaron signifies their joint leadership and shared responsibility in the deliverance. Moses is the primary prophet and leader, while Aaron serves as his spokesman and priestly associate. This dual mention underscores that the divine commission is comprehensive, involving both prophetic word and priestly representation, and highlights the collaborative nature of God's work through His chosen instruments.

**How does Exodus 6:13 demonstrate God's unwavering faithfulness despite human doubt and initial failures?**

Answer: Following Moses' and Israel's despair after Pharaoh intensified their burdens ([Exodus 5:22-23](/exodus/5-22-23 "Exodus 5:22-23 - Moses' Complaint to God")), this verse shows God's steadfast commitment to His promises. The LORD's re-commissioning of Moses and Aaron, even after their initial setbacks, underscores that His plans are not contingent on human strength or immediate success, but on His own sovereign will and covenant faithfulness ([Exodus 6:4-5](/exodus/6-4-5 "Exodus 6:4-5 - God Remembers His Covenant")). It teaches that God remains true to His word, even when His servants are discouraged or circumstances seem bleak.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 6:13, with its profound emphasis on a divine "charge" to deliver God's people from bondage, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Moses and Aaron, divinely appointed as mediators and deliverers, serve as powerful types and shadows of Christ, who is the supreme and perfect Deliverer. Just as they were commissioned to bring Israel out of physical slavery in Egypt, Christ was given a supreme and authoritative "charge" by the Father to deliver humanity from the far greater spiritual bondage of sin and death, a mission He perfectly accomplished through His atoning sacrifice ([John 10:18](/john/10-18 "John 10:18 - Jesus' Authority from the Father")). He is indeed the "greater Moses" ([Hebrews 3:1-6](/hebrews/3-1-6 "Hebrews 3:1-6 - Christ Greater Than Moses")), leading His people out of spiritual Egypt into the promised land of eternal life, and the perfect High Priest, like Aaron, who continually intercedes on their behalf ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Intercession")). His entire mission, unlike any human endeavor, was not of His own accord but a direct, authoritative mandate from God the Father, ensuring the complete, eternal, and irreversible liberation of all who believe and trust in Him ([Matthew 1:21](/matthew/1-21 "Matthew 1:21 - Jesus Saves His People from Sins")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Timothy 4:1

¶ I charge [thee] therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

Deuteronomy 31:14

¶ And the LORD said unto Moses, Behold, thy days approach that thou must die: call Joshua, and present yourselves in the tabernacle of the congregation, that I may give him a charge. And Moses and Joshua went, and presented themselves in the tabernacle of the congregation.

1 Timothy 1:18

¶ This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;

1 Timothy 6:13

¶ I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and [before] Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;

1 Timothy 5:21

I charge [thee] before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.

Psalms 91:11

For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

Numbers 27:23

And he laid his hands upon him, and gave him a charge, as the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses.