The narrative of Moses and Aaron approaching Pharaoh is a pivotal event in the biblical account of the Exodus, as recorded in the Book of Exodus. This encounter marks the beginning of God's direct intervention to liberate the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, demonstrating His power and faithfulness to His covenant people.

Background

The Israelites had been living in Egypt for several centuries, initially as honored guests due to Joseph's position in Pharaoh's court. However, over time, they became enslaved by a new Pharaoh who did not remember Joseph (Exodus 1:8). The Israelites' cries for deliverance reached God, who remembered His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 2:24).

The Call of Moses

God called Moses from the burning bush on Mount Horeb, commissioning him to lead His people out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10). Despite Moses' initial reluctance and self-doubt, God assured him of His presence and provided signs to confirm his divine mission (Exodus 3:12, 4:1-9). God also appointed Aaron, Moses' brother, as his spokesperson due to Moses' concerns about his speaking abilities (Exodus 4:14-16).

The First Encounter with Pharaoh

Moses and Aaron's first encounter with Pharaoh is recorded in Exodus 5. They approached Pharaoh with the message from the LORD, the God of Israel: "Let My people go, so that they may hold a feast to Me in the wilderness" (Exodus 5:1). Pharaoh's response was dismissive and defiant: "Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, nor will I let Israel go" (Exodus 5:2).

Pharaoh's refusal led to increased oppression of the Israelites, as he commanded that they gather their own straw for brick-making while maintaining their production quota (Exodus 5:6-9). This harsh treatment caused the Israelites to blame Moses and Aaron for their worsening situation (Exodus 5:20-21).

God's Assurance and the Plagues

Despite the initial setback, God reassured Moses of His plan to deliver Israel with a mighty hand (Exodus 6:1). God reiterated His covenant promises, emphasizing His identity as Yahweh and His commitment to bring the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 6:6-8).

The subsequent encounters between Moses, Aaron, and Pharaoh involved a series of divine judgments known as the Ten Plagues. These plagues demonstrated God's supremacy over the Egyptian gods and Pharaoh's impotence. Each plague was a direct challenge to the Egyptian deities and a sign of God's power and authority.

The Role of Aaron

Aaron played a crucial role as Moses' spokesman and partner in confronting Pharaoh. He performed miraculous signs, such as turning his staff into a serpent (Exodus 7:10) and initiating the first three plagues by stretching out his hand with the staff (Exodus 7:19, 8:5, 8:16). Aaron's involvement underscored the collaborative nature of their mission and the importance of obedience to God's commands.

Theological Significance

The encounters between Moses, Aaron, and Pharaoh highlight several key theological themes. First, they underscore God's sovereignty and power over earthly rulers and false gods. Second, they reveal God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, as He acts to redeem His people. Third, they demonstrate the importance of obedience and faith in God's plan, even in the face of opposition and hardship.

The narrative of Moses and Aaron approaching Pharaoh serves as a foundational account of deliverance and divine intervention, setting the stage for the eventual Exodus and the establishment of Israel as a nation under God's covenant.