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Catholic Public Domain Version

Exodus 5:2

“But he responded: "Who is the Lord, that I should listen to his voice and release Israel? I do not know the Lord, and I will not release Israel."”

Verse Explanation

A saved explanation for Exodus 5:2.

Plain-language explanation

Pharaoh answers Moses and Aaron by mocking the request. He asks, in effect, “Who is the Lord?” and claims he doesn’t know Him. Because of that, he refuses to let Israel go.

Catholic context

Many Catholics read this moment as showing how resistance to God can begin with misunderstanding or dismissing Him. Pharaoh’s refusal isn’t just political—it’s spiritual: he will not listen to God’s voice and therefore will not release God’s people. The text also highlights that God’s demand is not negotiable: “listen… and release,” not “listen… perhaps.”

Historical background

At this point in Exodus, Moses and Aaron have confronted Pharaoh with God’s command to free the Israelites. Pharaoh, viewing himself as the top authority in Egypt, rejects the claim that a different Lord has authority over Egypt. Egypt’s religious and political power was deeply tied to Pharaoh’s rule, so acknowledging “the Lord” as sovereign threatened that order.

Reflection

This verse challenges us to notice when we respond to God with “Who is the Lord?”—not necessarily with open rebellion, but with indifference, denial, or stubbornness. God’s voice invites freedom; refusing it can lead to deeper captivity. The verse also reminds us that God’s people are not released by human power, but by obedience to God.

Practical takeaway

This week, practice a small, concrete act of listening: pause before a decision and ask, “What is God asking me?” Then take one step of obedience (a repair you need to make, a change in speech, a disciplined choice, a prayer offered even when you don’t feel like it).

Prayer

Lord, help me not to dismiss Your voice. Give me a humble heart that listens and obeys. Free me from whatever keeps me from living as Your child, and let my choices reflect trust in You. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.