Book of Exodus - Chapter 5 - Verse 17

In this verse, Pharaoh accuses the Israelites of being idle and using the excuse of worshiping the Lord as a way to avoid work. The Pharaoh's statement reflects his suspicion and skepticism towards the Israelites' intentions. The Israelites' desire to go and do sacrifice to the Lord was seen as a ploy to shirk their duties and responsibilities. This accusation highlights the tension between the Israelites and the Egyptians, as the Israelites sought to fulfill their religious obligations amidst their enslavement. The verse serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their faith and seeking to worship God in the midst of difficult circumstances. It also sheds light on the oppressive nature of the Egyptians towards the Israelites, as they were discouraged from practicing their religious beliefs freely. Overall, this verse captures the struggle of the Israelites to uphold their faith in the face of adversity and highlights the importance of perseverance and dedication to worshiping the Lord.

In this verse from Exodus 5:17, Pharaoh accuses the Israelites of being idle and using sacrifice as an excuse to avoid work. The term "idle" in this context is significant as it implies laziness or a lack of productivity. The theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the importance of diligence and dedication to one's work. The Israelites' desire to worship and sacrifice to the LORD should not be seen as an excuse for avoiding responsibilities but rather as a way to honor and worship God in all aspects of their lives. This verse serves as a reminder that our actions should reflect our faith, and that worship should be integrated into our daily lives rather than used as a means to shirk responsibilities. The word study of "idle" emphasizes the negative connotations of the term and highlights the importance of being active and hardworking in our service to God.