Exodus 5:3 Meaning and Explanation
“And they said, The God of the Hebrews hath met with us: let us go, we pray thee, three days' journey into the desert, and sacrifice unto the LORD our God; lest he fall upon us with pestilence, or with the sword.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses and Aaron appeal to Pharaoh, explaining the urgent religious obligation and the danger of not obeying.
The Context of Exodus 5:3
Moses and Aaron explain the religious need and warn of consequences for refusing.
What Does Exodus 5:3 Mean?
Moses and Aaron shift strategy, framing the request in terms Pharaoh might understand. 'The God of the Hebrews hath met with us' suggests a direct encounter—God has appeared or spoken to them. They emphasize the urgency by mentioning three days' journey and the specific purpose: sacrifice to their God.
The appeal includes a warning: refusal to allow this worship may bring divine judgment—pestilence or sword. This is not a threat from Moses but an explanation of what happens when people refuse to honor God's will and their religious obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 5:3
What does Exodus 5:3 mean?
Moses and Aaron appeal to Pharaoh, explaining the urgent religious obligation and the danger of not obeying.
What is the context of Exodus 5:3?
Moses and Aaron explain the religious need and warn of consequences for refusing.