Exodus 5:21
And they said unto them, The LORD look upon you, and judge; because ye have made our savour to be abhorred in the eyes of Pharaoh, and in the eyes of his servants, to put a sword in their hand to slay us.
Exodus 5:21 · King James Version
Meaning
Within this verse, the Israelites express their frustration to Moses and Aaron, blaming them for making their situation worse in the eyes of Pharaoh and his servants. The Israelites are afraid that because of their actions, Pharaoh and his servants now see them in a negative light, which may cause them harm. By saying, "The LORD look upon you, and judge," they are essentially asking for God to intervene and hold Moses and Aaron accountable for what they perceive as a mistake in handling their situation. The Israelites feel vulnerable and at risk of being attacked, as Pharaoh's anger towards them intensifies due to the change in their circumstances. This verse highlights the tension and fear the Israelites are experiencing as they navigate the challenges of their enslavement and strive for freedom.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the Israelites are complaining to Moses and Aaron about the consequences of their actions. The phrase "The LORD look upon you, and judge" is a request for God to see the injustice the Israelites are facing at the hands of Pharaoh and his servants. It reveals the Israelites' frustration and their belief that God will intervene on their behalf. The word 'savour' in this context refers to their reputation or how they are perceived by others. The Israelites are expressing that their behavior has caused Pharaoh and his servants to have a negative opinion of them, leading to further oppression. By putting a sword in the hands of their enemies, the Israelites fear for their lives. This verse highlights the Israelites' desperation and shows their dependence on God for deliverance from their enemies.
Exodus 5:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
and they said unto them, Jehovah look upon you, and judge; because ye have made our savor to be abhorred in the eyes of Pharaoh, and in the eyes of his servants, to put a sword in their hand to slay us.
World English Bible
and they said to them, “May Yahweh look at you, and judge, because you have made us a stench to be abhorred in the eyes of Pharaoh, and in the eyes of his servants, to put a sword in their hand to kill us.”
Douay-Rheims
And they said to them: The Lord see and judge, because you have, made our savour to stink before Pharao and his servants, and you have given him a sword, to kill us.
Geneva Bible (1599)
To whom they said, The Lord looke vpon you and iudge: for yee haue made our sauour to stinke before Pharaoh and before his seruants, in that ye haue put a sword in their hand to slay vs.