TRV
Translation
King James Version
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.
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.
World English Bible Messianic
The LORD spoke to Moses and to Aaron, and gave them a command to the children of Israel, and to Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then the Lord spake vnto Moses and vnto Aaron, and charged them to goe to the children of Israel and to Pharaoh King of Egypt, to bring the children of Israel out of the lande of Egypt.
Young's Literal Translation
And Jehovah speaketh unto Moses, and unto Aaron, and chargeth them for the sons of Israel, and for Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring out the sons of Israel from the land of Egypt.
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Study This Verse
Commentary on Exodus 6 verses 10–13
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.
12 And Moses spake before the LORD, saying, Behold, the children of Israel have not hearkened unto me; how then shall Pharaoh hear me, who am of uncircumcised lips?
13 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.
Here, I. God sends Moses the second time to Pharaoh (Exo 6:11) upon the same errand as before, to command him, at his peril, that he let the children of Israel go. Note, God repeats his precepts before he begins his punishments. Those that have often been called in vain to leave their sins must yet be called again and again, whether they will hear or whether they will forbear, Eze 3:11. God is said to hew sinners by his prophets (Hos 6:5), which denotes the repetition of the strokes. How often would I have gathered you?
II. Moses makes objections, as one discouraged, and willing to give up the cause, Exo 6:12. He pleads, 1. The unlikelihood of Pharaoh's hearing: "Behold the children of Israel have not hearkened unto me; they give no heed, no credit, to what I have said; how then can I expect that Pharaoh should hear me? If the anguish of their spirit makes them deaf to that which would compose and comfort them, much more will the anger of his spirit, his pride and insolence, make him deaf to that which will but exasperate and provoke him." If God's professing people hear not his messengers, how can it be thought that his professed enemy should? Note, The frowardness and untractableness of those that are called Christians greatly discourage ministers, and make them ready to despair of success in dealing with those that are atheistical and profane. We would be instrumental to unite Israelites, to refine and purify them, to comfort and pacify them; but, if they hearken not to us, how shall we prevail with those in whom we cannot pretend to such an interest? But with God all things are possible. 2. He pleads the unreadiness and infirmity of his own speaking: I am of uncircumcised lips; it is repeated, Exo 6:30. He was conscious to himself that he had not the gift of utterance, had no command of language; his talent did not lie that way. To this objection God had given a sufficient answer before, and therefore he ought not to have insisted upon it, for the sufficiency of grace can supply the defects of nature at any time. Note, Though our infirmities ought to humble us, yet they ought not to discourage us from doing our best in any service we have to do for God. His strength is made perfect in our weakness.
III. God again joins Aaron in commission with Moses, and puts an end to the dispute by interposing his own authority, and giving them both a solemn charge, upon their allegiance to their great Lord, to execute it with all possible expedition and fidelity. When Moses repeats his baffled arguments, he shall be argued with no longer, but God gives him a charge, and Aaron with him, both to the children of Israel and to Pharaoh, Exo 6:13. Note, God's authority is sufficient to answer all objections, and binds us to obedience, without murmuring or disputing, Phi 2:14. Moses himself has need to be charged, and so has Timothy, Ti1 6:13; Ti2 4:1.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 10–13. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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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), and reiterates His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 6:3-5). Earlier attempts by Moses and Aaron to confront Pharaoh had only intensified Israel's suffering (Exodus 5:6-9), leading to deep despair among the Israelites and even Moses himself (Exodus 5:22-23). 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 6:13 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). 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). 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).
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
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.
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
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), 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). 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). He is indeed the "greater Moses" (Hebrews 3:1-6), 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). 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).