What strategies did Pharaoh use in Exodus 1:10 to control the Israelites? Setting the Scene Exodus 1 opens after Joseph’s generation has died (vv. 6–7). Israel is “fruitful and increased greatly” inside Egypt—fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham (Genesis 15:5; 46:3). A new king “who did not know Joseph” feels threatened by this demographic boom. Pharaoh’s Words in Focus “Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, or they will increase even more. Then if war breaks out, they will join our enemies, fight against us, and depart from the land.” Pharaoh’s Underlying Fears • Military threat: Israel might “join our enemies” (cf. Psalm 105:24–25). • Internal uprising: They could “fight against us.” • Economic loss: They might “depart from the land,” stripping Egypt of a valuable labor force (cf. Acts 7:17–19). The Threefold Strategy Embedded in v. 10 1. Deal “shrewdly” (crafty political tactics) • Hebrew root carries the idea of acting with calculated cunning (cf. Genesis 3:1). • Pharaoh moves from simple suspicion to systemic oppression. 2. Suppress population growth • Fear of numbers drives him to plan population-control measures. • This seed idea blossoms into ordering midwives to kill male babies (Exodus 1:15–16) and later commanding nationwide infanticide (Exodus 1:22). 3. Preserve Egyptian control of labor and territory • “Depart from the land” signals anxiety over losing cheap manpower and letting Israel walk off with Egypt’s prosperity (cf. Exodus 12:36). • The solution: conscript them into forced labor, building store cities (Exodus 1:11). How Pharaoh’s Plan Unfolds Through the Chapter • Forced labor (vv. 11–14). • Targeted infanticide via midwives (vv. 15–16). • Nationwide decree to drown Hebrew boys (v. 22). Each step escalates the original intent of v. 10: shrewd restriction becomes overt brutality. Scripture Echoes and Contrasts • God’s blessing overrides human schemes (Exodus 1:12; Genesis 50:20). • Psalm 2:1–4 portrays rulers plotting in vain against the Lord’s people. • Isaiah 54:17 affirms no weapon formed against God’s servants will prosper. Takeaways • Human power resorts to calculated fear when God’s blessings on His people look threatening. • Oppression often starts with “shrewd” policy before turning violent. • The Lord remains faithful; attempts to thwart His promises only advance His redemptive plan (Romans 8:28). |
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