Exodus 5:8 Meaning and Explanation
“And the tale of the bricks, which they did make heretofore, ye shall lay upon them; ye shall not diminish ought thereof: for they be idle; therefore they cry, saying, Let us go and sacrifice to our God.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Pharaoh demands the same brick quota despite removing the straw supply, accusing Israel of idleness for seeking religious freedom.
The Context of Exodus 5:8
Pharaoh maintains the production quota to exhaust the people and prevent them from seeking freedom.
What Does Exodus 5:8 Mean?
The 'tale of the bricks' is the production quota—the required number each day. Pharaoh orders that this quota remain unchanged, making the task exponentially harder. By refusing to reduce the quota, he ensures the people will fail unless they work far beyond previous effort.
Pharaoh diagnoses their request to worship as a symptom of 'idleness'—too much ease breeds religious fervor and desire for freedom. He believes that intensifying labor will eliminate such thoughts and crush any inclination toward resistance or worship outside his control.
Exodus 5:8 in the Original Language
davar (דָּבָר), 'tale' or 'word'—here used for a fixed number or quota that must be fulfilled.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 5:8
What does Exodus 5:8 mean?
Pharaoh demands the same brick quota despite removing the straw supply, accusing Israel of idleness for seeking religious freedom.
What is the context of Exodus 5:8?
Pharaoh maintains the production quota to exhaust the people and prevent them from seeking freedom.