Who Would Resist Israel’s Release?
The story of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt, found primarily in the book of Exodus, centers on a dramatic struggle between the will of God and the stubborn resistance of Egypt’s ruler. When God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of slavery, He made it clear that the journey to freedom would not be without fierce opposition. The one who would stand in the way of Israel’s release was none other than Pharaoh, the king of Egypt.
Pharaoh: The Central Opponent
1. Pharaoh’s Political Power
Pharaoh was the most powerful human authority in Egypt—viewed almost as a god by his people. The Israelites were a large labor force, and their departure would mean:
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A major economic loss
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A disruption of Egypt’s building projects
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A weakening of Egypt’s power structure
Because of this, Pharaoh had no intention of letting them go.
2. Pharaoh’s Hardened Heart
Repeatedly in Scripture, Pharaoh is described as having a “hard heart.” This hardening is mentioned in two ways:
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Pharaoh hardened his own heart (Exodus 8:15, 32)
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God hardened Pharaoh’s heart (Exodus 9:12)
This dual emphasis shows that Pharaoh’s stubbornness was both a personal choice and a means by which God demonstrated His power over Egypt.
3. Resistance Even in the Face of Signs
Despite witnessing extraordinary signs—miracles, plagues, and wonders—Pharaoh continually resisted. Each plague exposed the weakness of Egypt’s gods and the supremacy of Yahweh. Yet Pharaoh remained defiant:
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He refused Moses’ initial request
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He tried to negotiate partial obedience
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He temporarily gave in, only to reverse his decision
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He ultimately pursued Israel even after releasing them
His resistance was not logical; it was a spiritual and moral rebellion.
Egypt as a Whole Followed Pharaoh’s Lead
While Pharaoh was the primary resistor, the Egyptian nation also became complicit:
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Egyptian officials supported the oppression of Israel
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Egyptian magicians tried to replicate God’s signs
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Many Egyptians encouraged Pharaoh to resist until the plagues became unbearable
In the end, the entire nation suffered because of Pharaoh’s refusal to submit to God’s command.
Why Pharaoh Resisted Israel’s Release
1. Economic Fear
Israel provided vast free labor. Their release threatened Egypt’s wealth and power.
2. Pride and Sovereignty
Pharaoh saw himself as divine. Obeying the God of slaves would undermine his authority and status.
3. Spiritual Conflict
The confrontation between Moses and Pharaoh represented a deeper spiritual battle:
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Yahweh vs. Egyptian gods
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True sovereignty vs. human arrogance
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Freedom vs. oppression
Pharaoh became the symbol of resistance to God’s will.
The Purpose Behind the Resistance
God revealed to Moses beforehand that Pharaoh would resist:
“But I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless compelled by a mighty hand.”
— Exodus 3:19
This resistance would:
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Display God’s power through the plagues
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Reveal God’s authority to Israel and the nations
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Show that no earthly ruler could stand against God’s plan
Pharaoh’s stubbornness became the stage upon which God’s glory was demonstrated.
Conclusion
The one who would resist Israel’s release was Pharaoh, the powerful and prideful ruler of Egypt. His refusal was driven by economic concerns, political pride, and spiritual rebellion. Yet his hardened heart ultimately became the means through which God’s power, justice, and sovereignty were unmistakably revealed. Pharaoh resisted, but God prevailed—and Israel marched toward freedom.