Come on, let us deal wisely with them; lest they multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there falleth out any war, they join also unto our enemies, and fight against us, and so get them up out of the land.
Come on, let's deal cleverly with them so they don't multiply and grow stronger. If war breaks out, they might join our enemies and fight against us, then leave our land.
The Egyptian Pharaoh is plotting to suppress the Israelites because he fears they'll become too numerous and powerful, potentially becoming a threat during wartime.
📚 Historical Context
This verse records Pharaoh's words to his advisors around 1500-1400 BC, expressing fear about the growing population of Israelites in Egypt. The Israelites had been in Egypt for several generations since Joseph's time, and their numbers had increased dramatically. Egypt's new leadership, who 'knew not Joseph,' viewed this population growth as a potential security threat rather than a blessing.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.