What is the meaning of Exodus 8:26? But Moses replied • Moses’ answer shows a humble but firm refusal to accept Pharaoh’s compromise (Exodus 8:25). • Earlier God had told Moses, “You must bring My people out of Egypt” (Exodus 3:10), so his loyalty is already settled. • Moses models respectful boldness—he speaks plainly, yet honors God above the king (compare Acts 5:29). • His reply shifts the conversation from Pharaoh’s convenience to God’s command (Exodus 5:1; Hebrews 11:27). It would not be right to do that • “Right” here means morally correct before God, not merely expedient. • True worship is never negotiable (Deuteronomy 12:32; Romans 12:1–2). • Obeying half of God’s instruction is disobedience (1 Samuel 15:22). • Moses teaches that fidelity to God’s revealed will outweighs political pressure or immediate comfort. Because the sacrifices we offer to the LORD our God would be detestable to the Egyptians • Egyptians revered certain animals, especially cattle; Israel sacrificed those same animals to the LORD (Exodus 12:5; Leviticus 1:3). • Joseph had earlier warned that “every shepherd is detestable to the Egyptians” (Genesis 46:34). • By calling the sacrifices “detestable,” Moses underscores the deep conflict between biblical worship and pagan culture (Exodus 20:3–5; 2 Corinthians 6:17). • The statement also highlights God’s demand for separation—His people cannot blend true worship with idolatry (Joshua 24:15). If we offer sacrifices that are detestable before the Egyptians, will they not stone us? • Moses points out the real danger of violent backlash from a populace offended by Israel’s worship (Exodus 17:4; John 8:59). • Stoning was a common form of mob justice; Egyptians might see Israel’s sacrifices as sacrilege deserving death (Acts 7:58). • The remark exposes the impossibility of serving both God and appeasing a hostile culture—safety lies in full obedience, not compromise (Psalm 121:1–2). • Moses presses Pharaoh: if he truly wants the plagues to stop, he must allow God’s people the freedom to worship as commanded (Exodus 8:27). summary Moses refuses Pharaoh’s partial offer because worship must align with God’s revealed pattern, not human convenience. The Hebrews’ sacrifices, sacred to them, would outrage Egyptian society, leading to persecution. By standing firm, Moses teaches that God’s people must obey fully, trust His protection, and accept that faithful worship often clashes with surrounding culture. |
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