1. Exode 5:2 (NEG79)
  2. Explication du texte

Why does Pharaoh refuse Moses' request?

Exode 5:2 (NEG79)

2 Pharaon répondit: Qui est l'Eternel, pour que j'obéisse à sa voix, en laissant aller Israël? Je ne connais point l'Eternel, et je ne laisserai point aller Israël.

Pharaoh asks, Who is the Lord? This is not a request for more information about God, but a remark of contempt: why should I listen to the God of these slaves? The people are powerless, so their God must be too. Pharaoh reacts like a dictator who has all the power and listens to no one. The Pharaoh in Egypt was considered a god. He does not accept that people command him, much less a people of slaves!