Conditions Change in Egypt

Click here to read Exodus 1.

Chapter 1 brings some interesting facts about the 12 sons of Jacob.

1. They all, with the exception of Benjamin and Joseph, were within 7 years of one another.
2. They all died about the same time.
3. They all were over 100 years when they died. (Joseph was 110 when he died.)

Seventy souls went into Egypt and verse 7 sums up their legacy, "They were fruitful and increased abundantly."

With the death of Joseph, there arose in Egypt a new king that did not know Joseph. Their rapid growth became a threat to the Egyptians and they suggested to their new king that the Israelites be put in bondage less they soon out number and overcome us. Notice how they did this. They taxed the Israelites so high that they could not pay and thus became debtors to the state. Gradually they all became workers for the government, engaged in building. Taxes continued to increase, work hours increased, working conditions became unbearable and wages were cut. Soon all were in bondage to the state.

It was hoped by the Egyptians that the rough working conditions and lack of food would cause the Israelite birth rate to drop, but it did not, actually, it increased. The midwives were then commanded to murder the babies as they were born, but these women feared God more than Pharaoh. Their excuse to Pharaoh, "We get there to late, the baby is already born." When this method does not work, Pharaoh gives orders that all male Hebrew children be drowned at birth.

Previous Chapter

Return to Outline

Ask Questions

Next Chapter