Exodus 6:12
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses expresses doubt to the Lord, questioning how Pharaoh will listen to him when even Israel refuses to hear.
Context
Moses objects to his commission by raising two obstacles: Israel has rejected his message, so why would Pharaoh accept it? Additionally, Moses describes himself as having 'uncircumcised lips'—a metaphor for being a poor speaker or lacking eloquence. This self-assessment becomes a framework for understanding Moses' later reliance on Aaron as spokesperson.
What Does Exodus 6:12 Mean?
Moses objects to his commission by raising two obstacles: Israel has rejected his message, so why would Pharaoh accept it? Additionally, Moses describes himself as having 'uncircumcised lips'—a metaphor for being a poor speaker or lacking eloquence. This self-assessment becomes a framework for understanding Moses' later reliance on Aaron as spokesperson.
The phrase 'uncircumcised lips' refers to lips that are spiritually or functionally unprepared for speech. Moses' doubt is psychologically realistic—a man of eighty facing an impossible task. Yet this objection sets up the pattern where God works through human weakness, ultimately validating divine power over human limitation.
In the Original Language
uncircumcised lips (ערל שפתים, 'aral sefatayim) — a metaphor for inability to speak fluently or eloquently; used to indicate inadequacy or ritual incompleteness.