Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'The Lord God of the Hebrews' mean in this verse?
A: The phrase 'The Lord God of the Hebrews' (ה' אֱלֹהֵי הָעִבְרִים) identifies Hashem as the God of the Israelite people, who were also called 'Hebrews' (Ivrim). Rashi explains that this emphasizes that Hashem is the protector and liberator of the Israelites, and it serves as a reminder to Pharaoh of their unique relationship with G-d.
Q: Why did Hashem command Moshe to tell Pharaoh to let the people serve Him in the wilderness?
A: According to the Midrash (Shemot Rabbah), serving Hashem in the wilderness symbolizes complete devotion, free from the distractions and influences of Egypt. The Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim) explains that this was also a test of Pharaoh's willingness to acknowledge Hashem's authority, as the wilderness was neutral ground, not under Egyptian control.
Q: What is the significance of the phrase 'and, behold, till now thou wouldst not hear'?
A: This phrase highlights Pharaoh's stubbornness and refusal to heed Hashem's command despite the previous plagues. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 106a) teaches that this demonstrates how hardening one's heart leads to further punishment, as Pharaoh's refusal brought additional suffering upon Egypt.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: This verse reminds us of the importance of listening to Hashem's commandments and not hardening our hearts. The Sforno explains that just as Pharaoh's stubbornness led to consequences, we must be open to spiritual growth and avoid resisting divine guidance in our lives.
Q: Why did Hashem specify that the Israelites should serve Him in the wilderness rather than in Egypt?
A: The Kli Yakar explains that the wilderness represents a place of purity and separation from the corrupt influences of Egypt. Serving Hashem there symbolized a fresh start, free from idolatry and oppression. Additionally, the Midrash (Mechilta) teaches that this was the first step toward receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai, which also took place in the wilderness.
The Divine Message to Pharaoh
The verse (Shemot 7:16) records Moshe's instruction to deliver a stern message to Pharaoh in the name of Hashem Elokei Ha'Ivrim ("The Lord, God of the Hebrews"). Rashi explains that this title emphasizes God's relationship with the Avot (Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov), who were called Ivrim ("Hebrews") due to their origin from Ever HaNahar (the other side of the river). This connects the current redemption to the covenant made with the forefathers.
Demand for Worship in the Wilderness
The demand to "let My people go so they may serve Me in the wilderness" carries deeper significance. Ramban notes that the wilderness symbolizes a place of purity and detachment from Egyptian corruption, where Bnei Yisrael could properly accept the Torah. The Midrash Tanchuma (Va'eira 14) adds that Pharaoh initially assumed they sought a brief three-day journey for sacrifices, but the true intent was permanent liberation for divine service.
Pharaoh's Persistent Refusal
The concluding phrase "and behold, until now you have not listened" reflects escalating severity. The Malbim explains this as establishing Pharaoh's willful disobedience despite witnessing earlier signs (like the staff turning into a snake). This pattern of refusal sets the stage for the subsequent plagues, demonstrating that Pharaoh's hardened heart warranted increasingly severe divine judgments.
Key Themes in Orthodox Interpretation