Understanding Exodus 2:23

Verse: “And it came to pass in process of time, that the king of Egypt died: and the children of Israel sighed by reason of the bondage, and they cried, and their cry came up unto God by reason of the bondage.” (Exodus 2:23)

Summary of Meaning

This verse marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of Israel's suffering in Egypt. The death of the Egyptian king signifies a potential shift in the political landscape, yet the affliction of the Israelites continues. Their cry reflects a deep desperation and a call for divine intervention. This plea reaches God, indicating that He is aware of their suffering and is poised to act on their behalf.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry comments on the faithfulness of God to hear the prayers of the distressed. He emphasizes that the cries of Israel were not in vain, for God is attuned to the plight of His people.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes highlights the importance of the king’s death, positing that it may open the door for liberation. He notes the emphasis on the children of Israel crying out, which was a significant act of prayer and recognition of their need for divine help.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke reflects on the human condition and suffering, pointing out that God listens to the cries of those in bondage. He suggests a theological interpretation of this moment as foreshadowing God’s forthcoming deliverance through Moses.

Bible Cross-References

• Psalm 34:17: "The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles." This verse reinforces the promise that God hears the cries of the righteous.
• Matthew 15:22: "And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord..." This illustrates the persistent plea for mercy that resonates with Exodus 2:23.
• Exodus 3:7: "And the Lord said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people..." Here, God acknowledges the suffering of the Israelites, aligning with the cry mentioned in Exodus 2:23.
• Isaiah 19:20: "And it shall be for a sign and for a witness unto the Lord of hosts in the land of Egypt..." This verse connects to the themes of oppression and divine intervention for Israel.
• Romans 8:26: "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought..." Reflecting the concept that even in times of despair, God is helping his people.
• James 5:4: "Behold, the hire of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth..." This echoes the idea of suffering laborers whose cries reach God.
• Psalm 106:44: "Nevertheless he regarded their affliction, when he heard their cry..." This verse captures God's attentiveness to Israel's suffering.

Thematic Connections

The theme of crying out to God in times of oppression runs throughout the Scriptures. Exodus 2:23 not only reflects the historical plight of Israel but also serves as a parallel to the New Testament understanding of deliverance through Christ. The motif of God responding to the cries of His people underlines a theological thread woven through both Testaments.

Conclusion

Exodus 2:23 serves as a significant juncture in the narrative of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, encapsulating themes of suffering, divine attention, and forthcoming deliverance. By exploring this verse through the lens of public domain commentaries and connecting it with various cross-references, we can deepen our understanding of the Bible's interconnectedness.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

For those seeking to explore connections between Bible verses, consider utilizing resources such as a Bible concordance or a cross-reference Bible study guide. These tools facilitate a comprehensive understanding of scriptural themes and enhance the study of how different passages correlate.

Exploration Activities

• Engage in a comparative study of Pauline epistles to identify similar themes of suffering and cries for help.
• Conduct a cross-referenced study on themes of deliverance found in both the Old and New Testament.
• Utilize a bible reference resource to locate verses that relate to bondage and divine liberation.

Through studying Exodus 2:23 and its related scriptures, we gain not merely historical insight but also profound truth regarding God's nature and His responsiveness to human suffering.