Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Moses mean when he says 'he has done evil to this people' in Exodus 5:23?
A: Moses is expressing his frustration to Hashem because after he spoke to Pharaoh in Hashem's name, Pharaoh made the Israelites' slavery even harsher by refusing to provide straw for bricks while demanding the same quota (Rashi on Exodus 5:23). This seemed like the opposite of what Moses expected would happen when following Hashem's command.
Q: Why does Moses say 'neither hast thou delivered thy people at all' in Exodus 5:23?
A: Moses is questioning why Hashem hasn't yet fulfilled the promise of redemption after he obeyed Hashem's command to approach Pharaoh. The Midrash explains this as Moses' momentary lapse in perfect faith during this difficult moment, though his intentions were pure - he was distressed over Israel's suffering (Shemot Rabbah 5:22).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Moses' words in Exodus 5:23?
A: The verse teaches that even great leaders like Moses can experience moments of doubt when facing adversity. However, the Talmud (Berachot 32b) notes that Hashem accepts sincere prayers and questions from those who are truly devoted, as Moses was. This shows that honest communication with Hashem is part of a relationship with Him.
Q: How does Exodus 5:23 relate to dealing with hardships today?
A: This verse reminds us that sometimes situations may appear to worsen before they improve, even when following Hashem's will. The Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 10:4) teaches that we must maintain faith during trials, understanding that Hashem's plan may not be immediately apparent. Like Moses, we can pour out our hearts to Hashem in prayer during difficult times.
Q: Why is this verse important in the Exodus story?
A: This moment marks a critical point where Moses expresses his confusion about Hashem's plan, setting the stage for Hashem to reveal more about the redemption process. As the Sforno explains, this leads to Hashem's powerful response in the next chapter (Exodus 6:1-8), where He reaffirms His covenant and outlines the stages of redemption, showing that divine salvation often comes step by step.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Exodus 5:23) is part of Moshe Rabbeinu's plea to Hashem after Pharaoh increases the suffering of Bnei Yisrael following Moshe's initial demand to let them go. Moshe expresses his distress that his mission appears to have backfired, causing more harm rather than redemption.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that Moshe's words reflect his confusion and pain. He notes that Moshe had faithfully delivered Hashem's message to Pharaoh, yet instead of liberation, the people faced harsher oppression. Rashi emphasizes that Moshe's complaint was not out of defiance but from a place of deep concern for Klal Yisrael's suffering.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:32) discusses how Moshe's reaction demonstrates the human struggle to understand divine providence. Even a leader as great as Moshe initially grappled with why righteous efforts sometimes seem to yield opposite results. This teaches that Hashem's plans unfold in ways beyond human comprehension.
Midrashic Insights
Chassidic Interpretation
The Sefas Emes teaches that Moshe's words reveal a profound truth about geulah (redemption) - sometimes darkness intensifies just before the dawn. What appears as regression is actually part of the process leading to ultimate liberation.
Halachic Perspective
The Rambam (Hilchos Teshuvah 1:4) derives from this episode that one should never despair when facing obstacles in serving Hashem. Just as Moshe persisted despite the apparent setback, we must maintain faith during challenges.