Manna and Quail from Heaven
16[1-5] Then all the people of Israel left from Elim and went into the countryside of Sin, between Elim and Mount Sinai on the fifteenth day of the second month, after leaving from the land of Egypt. Then all the people of Israel complained to Moses and Aaron, saying, “If only Yahweh had killed us back in Egypt, where we sat around pots of meat and ate all the bread we wanted. But now you’ve brought us into this countryside to starve us all to death.” Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Look, I’m going to rain down bread from heaven for you. Each day the people will go out and pick up as much food as they need for that day. I’ll test them to see whether or not they’ll obey Me. On the sixth day they’ll gather twice as much as usual and get it ready.”
[6-10] So Moses and Aaron said to all the people of Israel, “By evening you’ll know it was Yahweh who brought you out of the land of Egypt. In the morning you’ll see the greatness of Yahweh, who has heard your complaints, which are against God, and not us. Who are we that you should complain about us? Yahweh will give you meat to eat in the evening and bread to fill you in the morning. Yahweh has heard all your complaints against God. Who are we? Yes, your complaints are against Yahweh, not against us.” Then Moses said to Aaron, “Say this to all the people of Israel: ‘Come to Yahweh, who has heard your complaining.’” And as Aaron spoke to all the people of Israel, they looked out toward the countryside and saw the amazing greatness of Yahweh shining in a cloud.
[11-16] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “I’ve heard the Israelites’ complaints. Now tell them, ‘In the evening you’ll have meat to eat, and in the morning you’ll have all the bread you want. Then you’ll know that I Am Yahweh your God.’” That evening great numbers of quail flew in and covered the camp. And the next morning the area around the camp was wet with dew. When the dew dried, a small round thing as fine as frost covered the ground. So when they saw it, they asked each other, “What’s it?” They didn’t what it was. And Moses told them, “It’s the bread Yahweh has given you to eat. This is what Yahweh tells you to do: Everyone should gather as much as they need, about three quarts for each person in your tent.”
[17-20] So the people of Israel did as they were told, some gathering more, some less. But when they measured it out, everyone had just enough. Those who gathered too much had nothing left over, and those who gathered a little had enough. Each family had just what it needed. Then Moses told them, “Don’t keep any of it until morning.” But some of them didn’t listen and kept some till morning anyway. But by then it was full of worms and had a very bad smell. So Moses was very angry with them.
[21-26] After this the people gathered it every morning, each family as much as they needed. And as the sun became hot, it melted. On the sixth day, they gathered twice as much as usual, about six quarts for each person instead of three. Then all the leaders of the people came and asked Moses why. He told them, “This is what Yahweh has told you to do: Tomorrow will be a day of total rest, a Seventh Day, a day set apart to worship Yahweh. So bake or boil as much as you want today, and set aside what’s left for tomorrow.” So they put some aside until morning, just as Moses had told them, and it didn’t have any worms or smell. Moses said, “Eat this food today because today is a Seventh Day, a day to worship Yahweh. There will be no food on the ground today. You may gather the food for six days, but the Seventh Day is the Day of Rest. There will be no food on the ground that day.”
[27-31] Some of the people went out anyway on the seventh day, but they found no food. So Yahweh asked Moses, “How long will these people not do what I tell them? See, I, Yahweh, have given you the Seventh Day, so I will give you enough for two days on the sixth day. On the Seventh Day you’ll each stay in your place. Don’t go out of your place on the seventh day.” So the people rested on the seventh day. The Israelites called the food manna. It was white like coriander seed, and it tasted like honey wafers.
[32-36] Then Moses said, “This is what Yahweh has told you: Fill a three-quart pot with manna to save it for your descendants, so they’ll be able to see the food I gave you in the countryside when I set you free from Egypt.” Moses said to Aaron, “Get a pot and fill it with three quarts of manna. Then put it in a sacred place before Yahweh to save it for future generations.” Aaron did just as Yahweh had told Moses. He put it up to be placed in the Ark of the Promise. So the people of Israel ate manna for forty years until they got to the land where there were other people living. They ate manna until they came to the border of the land of Canaan. The container used to measure the manna was an omer, which was one tenth of an ephah; it held about three quarts.
Water from the Rock
17[1-3] All the people of Israel left the countryside of Sin as Yahweh told them to and camped at Rephidim, but there was no water there for the people to drink. So once more the people complained to Moses, saying, “Give us water to drink!” So Moses answered, “Why are you asking me? And why are you testing Yahweh?” But because they were thirsty, they kept arguing with Moses, saying, “Why did you bring us out of Egypt, to kill us, our children, and our animals with thirst?”
[4-7] Then Moses prayed to Yahweh, “What should I do with these people? They’re almost ready to stone me!” So Yahweh said to Moses, “Go out in front of the people and call some of the leaders of Israel to go with you. Take your stick, the one you used when you struck the water of the Nile, and go. I’ll stand in front of you on the rock at Mount Sinai. Hit the rock, and water will come out of it, so the people will be able to drink.” So Moses did as he was told, and water came out as the leaders watched. So Moses named the place Massah (which means “temptation”) and Meribah (which means “arguement”) because the people of Israel argued with Moses and tempted Yahweh by saying, “Is Yahweh with us or not?” Israel Defeats the Amalekites
[8-13] While the people of Israel were at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek came to fight them. So Moses told Joshua, “Choose some men to go out and fight with Amalek. Tomorrow, I’ll stand at the top of the hill, holding the stick of God in my hand.” So Joshua did what Moses said to him and fought the army of Amalek.Then Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. As long as Moses held up the stick in his hand, the Israelites were winning. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses’ hands became so tired that he couldn’t hold them up, Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands stayed up until sunset and Joshua won the battle against the army of Amalek.
[14-16] Then Yahweh told Moses, “Write this down in the book to remember it, and read it to Joshua: and I’ll erase the memory of Amalek from under heaven.” Then Moses built an altar there and named it Yahweh-nissi (which means “Yahweh is my banner”). He said, “Yahweh has promised, so Yahweh will be at war with Amalek generation after generation.”
Jethro’s Visit to Moses
18[1-6] Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian, heard about everything God had done for Moses and his people, the Israelites, about how Yahweh had saved them from Egypt. Earlier, Moses had sent his wife, Zipporah, and his two sons back to Jethro, who had taken them in. (The first was named Gershom because Moses had said when he was born, “I’ve been a foreigner in a foreign land.” The second was named Eliezer because Moses had said, “The God of my ancestors was my helper; and saved me from being killed by the ruler of Egypt.” So Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, now came back with his wife and two sons to Moses in the countryside, where they were camped at the mountain of God. Jethro had sent word to Moses, saying, “I, Jethro, your father-in-law, am coming to see you with your wife and your two sons.”
[7-12] So Moses went out to meet his father-in-law, and bowed to him and kissed him. They asked each other about how the other was doing and then went into Moses’ tent. So Moses told his father-in-law everything Yahweh had done to the ruler and people of Egypt for Israel. He also told him about how Yahweh had saved his people from all their troubles along the way. Jethro was happy when he heard about all the good things Yahweh had done for Israel by saving them from the hand of the Egyptians. Jethro said, “Praise Yahweh, who has saved you from the Egyptians and from the ruler of Egypt, and who has saved Israel from having to work for the Egyptians! Now I know that Yahweh is greater than all other gods, because the very things that they proudly worshipped, God used to defeat them.” Then Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, brought a burnt offering and sacrifices to God. Aaron and all the leaders of Israel came out and joined him in a sacrificial meal in God’s presence.
Jethro’s Wise Advice
[13-16] The next day, Moses took his seat to judge between the people and they lined up in front of him from morning till evening. So when Moses’ father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he asked, “What are you doing for these people? Why are you doing all this alone while everyone stands around you from morning till evening?” And Moses answered, “Because the people come to me to get an answer from God. When they disagree, they come to me, and I judge between them. I tell them what God says and teach God’s laws.”
[17-23] Moses’ father-in-law said to him, “This isn’t good! Both you and those with you are going to wear yourselves out. This job is too much for you to do by yourself. Now listen to me, and let me give you a word of advice, and may God be with you. You should keep on teaching them what God says and the laws, and show them how to live right and what work they need to do. But select from all the people some men who are able to do this, who fear God, are honest and hate bribes. Make them leaders over groups of 1,000, 100, 50, and 10. Let them always judge the people in the less important things themselves, but have them bring the moor important things to you. They’ll help you carry the load, making things easier for you. If you do this, and if God tells you so, then you’ll be able to go on, and all these people will go home in peace.”
[24-27] So Moses listened to his father-in-law and did what he said. Then Moses chose men who were able to do this from all over Israel and made them leaders over the people, leaders over 1,000’s, 100’s, 50’s, and 10’s. So they always judged the people in the little things themselves and brought the more important things to Moses. Then Moses let his father-in-law go, who went back to his own land.
Yahweh is Revealed at Sinai
19[1-6] In the third month after the Israelites had left Egypt, they came to the countryside of Mount Sinai. They had left Rephidim, and came to Mount Sinai and set up camp there in the countryside. So Israel camped beside the mountain. Then Moses climbed up to God, and Yahweh called to him from the mountain, saying, “Tell this to the family of Jacob; tell it to the descendants of Israel: ‘You’ve seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself. Now if you’ll obey Me and keep My Law, you’ll be My own special treasure from among all the peoples on earth; because all the earth is Mine. And you’ll be a land of priests to me, my holy nation.’ Say this to the people of Israel.”
[7-13] So Moses came down and called the leaders of the people and told them everything Yahweh had told him. And all the people answered together, saying, “We’ll do everything Yahweh has told us to do.” So Moses brought the people’s answer back to Yahweh. Then Yahweh said to Moses, “I’ll come to you in a thick cloud, so the people will hear Me when I speak with you and always believe you.” So Moses told Yahweh what the people had said. Then Yahweh told Moses, “Go down to the people and dedicate them. Get them ready today and tomorrow, and have them wash their clothes. Make sure they’re ready on the third day because on that day Yahweh will come down on Mount Sinai as all the people watch. Set a boundary all around the mountain, warning the people, ‘Be careful that you don’t go up to the mountain or even touch its base. Anyone who touches the mountain will be put to death without a doubt. No hand will touch that person or animal, but they will be stoned or shot with an arrow. Whether human or animal, they will be put to death. But when the trumpet sounds a long blast, then they’ll come near the mountain.”
[14-20] So Moses went down to the people, and got them ready for worship, and they washed their clothes. He told them, “Get ready for the third day, and don’t have sex.” On the morning of the third day, thunder roared and lightning flashed, and a thick cloud came down on the mountain. The sound of the trumpet was very loud, so all the people in the camp were scared. But Moses led them out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain. All of Mount Sinai was covered with smoke because Yahweh had come down on it in fire. The smoke went up like smoke from an oven, and the whole mountain quaked. As the blast of the trumpet grew louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God answered him aloud. Then Yahweh came down on the top of Mount Sinai and called Moses to the top of the mountain. So Moses climbed up the mountain.
[21-25] Then Yahweh told Moses, “Go back down and warn the people not to cross the boundaries to try to see Yahweh, or they’ll die. And let the priests who minister to Yahweh purify themselves so they won’t be killed.” But Moses argued, “The people can’t come up to the mountain. You warned us, saying, ‘Set a boundary all around the mountain to set it apart as holy.’” But Yahweh said, “Go away! Go down and come back with Aaron. But don’t let the priests or the people cross the boundary to see Yahweh, or they’ll be killed.” So Moses went down to the people and told them what Yahweh had said again. The Ten Laws of God
20[1-6] Then God spoke all these words:
“I Am Yahweh your God, who saved you from the land of Egypt, the place where you had to work so hard. Don’t worship anything else but Me. “Don’t make yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens, on the earth, or in the sea. Don’t bow down to them or worship them because I, Yahweh your God, am a jealous God, who passes the parents’ sins down to the children up to the third and fourth generation of those who hate Me, but forgiving many generations of those who love and obey Me.
[7] “Don’t use the name of Yahweh your God with disrespect. Yahweh won’t let anyone go unpunished who misuses God’s name.
[8-11] “Remember the Seventh Day and keep it set aside to worship. You may do all your work in six days, but the seventh day is the Day of Rest of Yahweh your God. On that day no one may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female workers, your animals, and any foreigners living among you. For in six days Yahweh made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them and rested the seventh day. So Yahweh blessed the Seventh Day and set it apart to worship God.
[12] “Respect your father and mother, so you’ll live a long life in the land Yahweh your God is giving you. [13] “Don’t kill anyone.
[14] “Don’t be sexually unfaithful to your spouse.
[15] “Don’t steal anything.
[16] “Don’t tell lies about anyone.
[17] “Don’t want what someone else has. Don’t want their spouse, their workers, their animals, or anything else that belongs to someone else.”
[18-20] When the people heard the thunder and the loud blast of the ram’s horn, and when they saw the flashes of lightning and the smoke pouring out of the mountain, they stood trembling at a distance. And they said to Moses, “You speak to us, and we’ll listen. But don’t let God speak to us, or we will die!” So Moses answered them, saying, “Don’t be afraid; God has come to test you, so that your fear of God will keep you from sinning!”
Proper Use of Altars
[21-26] As the people stood in the distance, Moses went to the dark cloud where God was. And Yahweh said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel: You saw that I spoke to you from heaven. Remember, don’t worship anything else along with Me. Don’t make any idols of silver or gold for yourselves. “Build for me an altar made of earth, and offer your sacrifices on it, your burnt offerings and peace offerings, your sheep, and your cattle. Wherever I put My Name, I’ll come to you and bless you. If you use stones to build my altar, use only natural, uncut stones. Don’t shape the stones with a tool because that would make them unfit for use on the alter. And don’t build My altar with steps or you’ll show your nakedness on it.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Exodus (Going Out) Chapters 11-15
Death for Egypt’s Firstborn 11[1-3] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “I’ll send one more plague on the ruler of Egypt and the land of Egypt. After that, the ruler of Egypt will let you go. When he let’s you go, he’ll make you all to leave quickly. Tell all the Israelite men and women to ask their Egyptian neighbors for things of silver and gold.” Yahweh had caused the Egyptians to be kind to the people of Israel and Moses was considered a very great man in the land of Egypt, respected by the ruler of Egypt’s officials and the Egyptian people. [4-8] Then Moses said to the ruler of Egypt, “This is what Yahweh says: At midnight tonight I’ll pass through the heart of Egypt and all the firstborn will die in Egypt, from the firstborn of the ruler of Egypt, who sits on his throne, to the firstborn of his worker girl who grinds the flour. Even the firstborn of all the animals will die. Then a loud cry will sound throughout the land of Egypt, one like no one has heard before or will ever hear again. But not even a dog will bark against any of the Israelites or their animals. Then you’ll know that Yahweh makes a difference between the Egyptians and the Israelites. All of your people will run and fall to the ground before me, saying, ‘Get out! And take all your followers with you.’ After that, I’ll go out!” Then, Moses left the ruler of Egypt, being very angry. [9-10] Now Yahweh had told Moses earlier, “The ruler of Egypt won’t listen to you, so I’ll do even more amazing things in the land of Egypt.” So Moses and Aaron did these miracles in the ruler of Egypt’s presence, but Yahweh made the ruler of Egypt’s heart stubborn, and he wouldn’t let the Israelites go out of His land.
The First Passover 12[1-10] While the Israelites were still in the land of Egypt, Yahweh spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying, “From now on, this month will be the first month of the year for you. Say to all the people of Israel, ‘On the tenth day of this month each family will choose a lamb for a sacrifice, one animal for each household.’ If a family is too small to eat a whole animal, let them share with another family next door. Take the animal in keeping with the size of each family and how much they can eat. The animal you pick can’t have anything wrong with it, and will be a first-year-male, either a sheep or a goat. “Take care of it until the evening of the fourteenth day of this first month. Then all the people of Israel will kill their lamb or young goat as the sun goes down. They need to take some of the blood and smear it on the sides and top of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the animal. That same night they will roast the meat over a fire and eat it along with bread made without yeast and bitter greens. Don’t eat any of the meat raw or boiled in water. The whole animal, including the head, legs, and insides, will be roasted over a fire. Don’t leave any of it until the next morning and burn whatever is left. [11-20] “This is the way you’ll eat it: Be dressed with your belt on and your sandals on your feet, and have your walking stick in your hand. So eat it quickly, because this is Yahweh’s Passover. On that night I’ll pass through the land of Egypt and kill every firstborn in the land of Egypt, both human and animal. I’ll judge and punish all the gods of Egypt, because I Am Yahweh! But the blood on your doorposts will serve as a sign, marking the houses where you’re staying. When I see the blood, I’ll pass over you and this plague of death won’t touch you when I punish the land of Egypt. This is a day to remember. Each year, from generation to generation, you’ll celebrate it as a feast to Yahweh. Make a law to keep it forever. For seven days the bread you eat won’t be made with yeast. On the first day of the feast, take out all of the yeast from your homes. Anyone who eats bread made with yeast during the seven days of the feast will be put out from the people of Israel. On the first day and again on the seventh day of the feast, all the people will come together to worship. No work of any kind may be done on these days except for fixing the food. Celebrate this Feast of Unleavened Bread to remind you that I brought your people out of the land of Egypt on this very day. Celebrate this day from generation to generation and make it a law. The bread you eat won’t be made with yeast from the evening of the fourteenth day of the first month until the evening of the twenty-first day of that month. During those seven days, let no yeast stay in your homes. Anyone who eats anything made with yeast during this week will be put out from the people of Israel, whether they are an Israelite or a foreigner. During those days you won’t eat anything made with yeast. Wherever you live, eat only bread made without yeast.” [21-27] Then Moses called all the leaders of Israel together and said to them, “Go, pick out a lamb in keeping with the size of each of your families, and kill the Passover sacrifice. Then take a branch of hyssop and dip it into the blood in the pan and brush it across the top and sides of the doorframes of your houses. And no one may go out through the door until morning. Yahweh will pass through the land to kill the Egyptians. But when God sees the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe, Yahweh will pass over your home and won’t let the death angel come into your house to kill you. Remember to keep these things as a law for you and your descendants forever. When you come into the land Yahweh has promised to give you, you’ll keep this ceremony. Then when your children ask, ‘What does this ceremony mean?’ you’ll say, ‘It’s the Passover sacrifice to Yahweh, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt to free us and killed the Egyptians.’” So the people bowed their heads and worshiped. [28-30] So the people of Israel did just as Yahweh had told Moses and Aaron. And that night at midnight, Yahweh killed all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of the ruler of Egypt, who sat on his throne, to the firstborn of the prisoner in the jail. Even the firstborn of their animals were killed. So the ruler of Egypt and all his officials and all the people of Egypt woke up during the night, and a loud cry was heard throughout the land of Egypt. There wasn’t a house where someone wasn’t dead. Israel Leaves Egypt [31-36] Then the ruler of Egypt sent for Moses and Aaron during the night, saying, “Get up and go! Leave my people and take the rest of the Israelites with you! Go and worship Yahweh as you’ve asked. Take your flocks and herds, as you said, and be gone, and bless me also.” So all the Egyptians hurried the people of Israel out of the land quickly because they thought, “We’ll all die!” So the Israelites took their bread dough before yeast was added and wrapped their kneading bowls in their clothes, carrying them on their shoulders. And the people of Israel had done as Moses told them; they had asked the Egyptians for clothing and things of silver and gold. Yahweh caused the Egyptians to be kind to the Israelites, and they gave the Israelites whatever they asked for. So they took the riches of the Egyptians! [37-42] That night the people of Israel left Rameses and went to Succoth, with about 600,000 men on foot, plus all the women and children. A bunch of non-Israelites went with them, along with many flocks and herds. So they baked pancakes from the dough without yeast, which they had brought from Egypt. It was made without yeast because the people were driven out of Egypt in such a hurry that they had no time to make the bread or other food. The people of Israel had lived in Egypt for 430 years. On the last day of the 430th year all the people of Yahweh left Egypt. It’s a night to remember Yahweh for bringing them out of the land of Egypt. So this is the night for all the people of Israel to remember Yahweh, and it will be celebrated every year, from generation to generation. Instructions for the Passover [43-51] Then Yahweh said to Moses and Aaron, “This is what you’ll do for the feast of the Passover. No foreigners will eat it. But any worker who has been bought may eat it if he has had his foreskin cut off. Visitors and hired workers may not eat it. Each Passover lamb will be eaten in one house. Don’t carry any of its meat outside, and don’t break any of its bones. All the people of Israel will celebrate this feast. If a foreigner living among wants to celebrate Yahweh’s Passover, let all their males have their foreskins cut off. Then they may celebrate the Passover with you like a native-born Israelite. But no male who has not had his foreskin cut off may ever eat the Passover meal. This law applies to everyone, whether a native-born Israelite or a foreigner living among you.” So all the people of Israel did what Yahweh had told Moses and Aaron to do. On that very day Yahweh brought the people of Israel out of the land of Egypt by their family groups. Dedication of the Firstborn 13[1-7] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Dedicate to Me every firstborn, whatever opens the womb, among the Israelites, both humans and animals. It’s Mine” So Moses said to the people, “This is a day to remember forever, the day you left Egypt, the place where you worked so hard. Today, Yahweh has brought you out with a strong hand, so remember, eat no food containing yeast. On this day, in the month of Abib, (which means tender and green) you’re going out. After Yahweh brings you into the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Hivites, and Jebusites, which God promised to your ancestors, a land full of milk and honey, you’ll celebrate this event in this month each year. For seven days your bread won’t be made with yeast, and on the seventh day, celebrate a feast to Yahweh. Eat bread without yeast during those seven days. There will be no yeast bread or any yeast at all found in your houses during this time. [8-16] “On the seventh day you’ll explain to your children, ‘I’m doing this because of what Yahweh did for me when I left Egypt.’ This annual feast will be a visible sign to you, like a mark on your hand, to help you remember Yahweh’s Laws because with a strong hand Yahweh saved you out of Egypt.’ So keep the law of this feast at this time each year. When Yahweh gives you the land where the Canaanites now live, as was promised to your ancestors, you’ll set apart all that opens the womb, that is, every firstborn male from all your animals because they belong to Yahweh. But you’ll buy back a firstborn donkey by giving a lamb in its place. But if you don’t want to buy it back, you’ll break its neck. And every firstborn human son you’ll buy back. And in the future, when your children ask you, ‘What does all this mean?’ Then you’ll tell them, ‘With a strong hand, Yahweh brought us out of Egypt, the place where we worked so hard. The ruler of Egypt was stubborn and wouldn’t let us go, so Yahweh killed all the firstborn males throughout the land of Egypt, both people and animals. So I now sacrifice all the firstborn males to Yahweh, but the firstborn sons are always bought back.’ This ceremony will be like a mark on your hand to help you remember that with a strong hand, Yahweh brought us out of Egypt.”
Israel Wanders Through the Countryside [17-22] When the ruler of Egypt finally let the people go, God didn’t lead them by the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was closer. But God said, “The people might change their minds if they’re faced with a war, and go back to Egypt.” So God led them around through the countryside of the Red Sea. So the Israelites left Egypt in order, ranked by their family groups. Moses took the bones of Joseph with him because Joseph had made the sons of Israel promise to do this. He said, “God will certainly come to help you, so take my bones from this place with you.” The Israelites left Succoth and camped at Etham on the edge of the countryside. Yahweh went ahead of them by day with a pillar of cloud to lead the way, and by night with a pillar of fire to give them light, so they could go by day and night. And Yahweh didn’t take the pillar of cloud by day or the pillar of fire by night away from the people. The Egyptians Pursue Israel
14[1-4] Then Yahweh told Moses: “Tell the Israelites to turn and camp by Pi-hahiroth between Migdol and the sea, across from Baal-zephon. Camp there by the sea. Then the ruler of Egypt will think, ‘The Israelites are confused by the land and trapped in the countryside!’ And once again I’ll make the ruler of Egypt’s heart stubborn, and he’ll chase after you. I’ll get more respect than the ruler of Egypt and all his army and the Egyptians will know that I Am Yahweh!” So they camped there as they were told. [5-9] When word reached the ruler of Egypt that the Israelites had left, the ruler of Egypt and his officials changed their minds, saying, “What have we done, letting all those Israelite workers go?” So the ruler of Egypt got his chariot ready and took his troops with him. He took with him 600 of Egypt’s best chariots, along with the rest of the chariots of Egypt, with leaders over them all. So Yahweh made the heart of the ruler of Egypt stubborn, so he chased after the people of Israel, who had bravely left. The Egyptians chased after them with all the horses and chariots of the ruler of Egypt, his horsemen and fighters and caught up with them camping by the seashore near Pi-hahiroth, across from Baal-zephon. [10-14] As the ruler of Egypt approached, the people of Israel looked up and saw the Egyptians catching up with them. They were very scared and prayed to Yahweh. Then they said to Moses, “Why did you bring us out here to die in the countryside? Weren’t there any graves in Egypt? What have you done to us, bringing us out of Egypt? Isn’t this what we told you in Egypt when we said, ‘Leave us alone! Let us work for the Egyptians?’ It’s better to work in Egypt than to die in the countryside!’” But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just be still and watch Yahweh save you today. The Egyptians you see today you’ll never see again. Yahweh will fight for you, so be quiet!” Crossing the Red Sea [15-18] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to go on! Pick up your stick and raise your hand over the sea and divide it. The Israelites will walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground. And I’ll make the hearts of the Egyptians stubborn, and they’ll follow them in. So I’ll get more respect than the ruler of Egypt and all his troops, his chariots, and his horsemen. Then all Egypt will know that I Am Yahweh, when I get respect for Myself over the ruler of Egypt and his armies!” [19-22] Then the angel of God, who had been leading the people of Israel, moved behind the camp. The pillar of cloud moved from the front and stood behind them. The cloud came between the Egyptian and Israelite camps. So it was a cloud and darkness to the Egyptians, and it gave light by night to the Israelites, so neither went to the other all night. Then Moses raised his hand over the sea, and Yahweh held back the water with a strong east wind all that night, turning the seabed into dry land. So the waters were divided. So the people of Israel walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on each side of them! [23-25] Then the Egyptians, all of the ruler of Egypt’s horses, chariots, and horsemen, chased them into the middle of the sea. Just before morning Yahweh looked down on the Egyptian army from the pillar of fire and cloud, and troubled their forces. Their chariot wheels fell off, making their chariots hard to drive, so the Egyptians said, “Let’s run away from these Israelites! Yahweh is fighting for them against Egypt!” [26-28] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Raise your hand over the sea again, so the waters will come back and cover the Egyptian chariots and horsemen.” So as the sun began to rise, Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the sea became deep again, while the Egyptians were moving through it. So Yahweh drowned the Egyptians in the sea. When the waters went back and covered all the chariots and horsemen, all the army of the ruler of Egypt, not one lived. [29-31] But the people of Israel had walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, as the water stood up like a wall on both sides of them. So Yahweh saved Israel from the hand of the Egyptians that day and the Israelites saw the Egyptians dead on the seashore. When the people of Israel saw the great power that Yahweh had used against the Egyptians, they feared Yahweh. They put their faith in Yahweh and believed Moses, God’s servant. A Song of Deliverance 15[1-7] Then Moses and the people of Israel sang this song to Yahweh: “I’ll sing to Yahweh because You have amazingly won our freedom; You have thrown both horse and rider into the sea. Yahweh is my strength and my song; You have saved me. This is my God, and I’ll praise You, the God of my ancestors, and I’ll applaud You! Yahweh is a strong warrior; Yahweh is God’s name! The ruler of Egypt’s chariots and army You have thrown into the sea. The ruler of Egypt’s best leaders are drowned in the Red Sea. The deep waters covered them; they sank to the bottom like a stone. “Your strong hand, O Yahweh, is amazing in power. Your strong hand, O Yahweh, smashes the enemy in pieces. In the greatness of Your majesty, You overthrow those who rise against You.
You let Your anger burn; and it burns them like straw. [8-13] At the blast of Your breath, the waters rose up! The rising waters stood straight up like a wall; in the heart of the sea the deep waters became hard like glass. “The enemy bragged, ‘I’ll chase them and catch up with them. I’ll steal all their stuff and get what I want from them. I’ll pull my knife; my strong hand will kill them.’ But You blew with Your breath, and the sea covered them. They sank like lead in the great waters. “Who is like You among the gods, O Yahweh, Who is like You, amazing in goodness,
deserving our praises, doing great amazing things? You raised Your strong hand, and the earth swallowed our enemies. With Your forgiveness You lead the people you’ve saved. In Your strength, You guide them to Your place of worship. [14-18] The peoples will hear and tremble; those who live in Philistia will sorrow. The leaders of Edom are confused; the great ones of Moab will tremble. All who live in Canaan will melt away; fear and dread will fall upon them. The power of Your arm makes them stand as still as a stone
until your people pass by, O Yahweh, until the people you purchased pass by. You’ll bring them in and plant them on your own mountain,
the place where You stay, O Yahweh, the place of worship, O Yahweh, that your hands have made. Yahweh will reign forever and ever!” [19-21] When the ruler of Egypt’s horses, chariots, and horsemen went into the sea, Yahweh brought the waters down on them. But the people of Israel went through the middle of the sea on dry ground! Then Miriam, the preacher, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine and led all the women as they played their tambourines and danced. And Miriam sang this song: “I’ll sing to Yahweh because You have amazingly won our freedom; You have thrown both horse and rider into the sea.” Bitter Water at Marah [22-27] Then Moses led the people of Israel away from the Red Sea, and they moved out into the desert of Shur. They traveled in this desert for three days but found no water. When they came to the oasis of Marah, the water was too bitter to drink. So they called the place Marah (which means “bitter”). Then the people complained to Moses, saying, “What are we going to drink?” So Moses prayed to Yahweh for help, and Yahweh showed him a tree. When Moses threw it into the water, it made the water good to drink. It was there at Marah that Yahweh gave them a law to test their faithfulness. God said, “If you’ll listen carefully to the voice of Yahweh your God and do what’s right in My sight, listening to what I tell you and keeping all My laws, then I’ll not make you suffer any of the problems I sent on the Egyptians; because I Am Yahweh who heals you.” Then the Israelites traveled on to the oasis of Elim, where they found twelve springs and seventy palm trees. They camped there beside the water.
The First Passover 12[1-10] While the Israelites were still in the land of Egypt, Yahweh spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying, “From now on, this month will be the first month of the year for you. Say to all the people of Israel, ‘On the tenth day of this month each family will choose a lamb for a sacrifice, one animal for each household.’ If a family is too small to eat a whole animal, let them share with another family next door. Take the animal in keeping with the size of each family and how much they can eat. The animal you pick can’t have anything wrong with it, and will be a first-year-male, either a sheep or a goat. “Take care of it until the evening of the fourteenth day of this first month. Then all the people of Israel will kill their lamb or young goat as the sun goes down. They need to take some of the blood and smear it on the sides and top of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the animal. That same night they will roast the meat over a fire and eat it along with bread made without yeast and bitter greens. Don’t eat any of the meat raw or boiled in water. The whole animal, including the head, legs, and insides, will be roasted over a fire. Don’t leave any of it until the next morning and burn whatever is left. [11-20] “This is the way you’ll eat it: Be dressed with your belt on and your sandals on your feet, and have your walking stick in your hand. So eat it quickly, because this is Yahweh’s Passover. On that night I’ll pass through the land of Egypt and kill every firstborn in the land of Egypt, both human and animal. I’ll judge and punish all the gods of Egypt, because I Am Yahweh! But the blood on your doorposts will serve as a sign, marking the houses where you’re staying. When I see the blood, I’ll pass over you and this plague of death won’t touch you when I punish the land of Egypt. This is a day to remember. Each year, from generation to generation, you’ll celebrate it as a feast to Yahweh. Make a law to keep it forever. For seven days the bread you eat won’t be made with yeast. On the first day of the feast, take out all of the yeast from your homes. Anyone who eats bread made with yeast during the seven days of the feast will be put out from the people of Israel. On the first day and again on the seventh day of the feast, all the people will come together to worship. No work of any kind may be done on these days except for fixing the food. Celebrate this Feast of Unleavened Bread to remind you that I brought your people out of the land of Egypt on this very day. Celebrate this day from generation to generation and make it a law. The bread you eat won’t be made with yeast from the evening of the fourteenth day of the first month until the evening of the twenty-first day of that month. During those seven days, let no yeast stay in your homes. Anyone who eats anything made with yeast during this week will be put out from the people of Israel, whether they are an Israelite or a foreigner. During those days you won’t eat anything made with yeast. Wherever you live, eat only bread made without yeast.” [21-27] Then Moses called all the leaders of Israel together and said to them, “Go, pick out a lamb in keeping with the size of each of your families, and kill the Passover sacrifice. Then take a branch of hyssop and dip it into the blood in the pan and brush it across the top and sides of the doorframes of your houses. And no one may go out through the door until morning. Yahweh will pass through the land to kill the Egyptians. But when God sees the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe, Yahweh will pass over your home and won’t let the death angel come into your house to kill you. Remember to keep these things as a law for you and your descendants forever. When you come into the land Yahweh has promised to give you, you’ll keep this ceremony. Then when your children ask, ‘What does this ceremony mean?’ you’ll say, ‘It’s the Passover sacrifice to Yahweh, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt to free us and killed the Egyptians.’” So the people bowed their heads and worshiped. [28-30] So the people of Israel did just as Yahweh had told Moses and Aaron. And that night at midnight, Yahweh killed all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of the ruler of Egypt, who sat on his throne, to the firstborn of the prisoner in the jail. Even the firstborn of their animals were killed. So the ruler of Egypt and all his officials and all the people of Egypt woke up during the night, and a loud cry was heard throughout the land of Egypt. There wasn’t a house where someone wasn’t dead. Israel Leaves Egypt [31-36] Then the ruler of Egypt sent for Moses and Aaron during the night, saying, “Get up and go! Leave my people and take the rest of the Israelites with you! Go and worship Yahweh as you’ve asked. Take your flocks and herds, as you said, and be gone, and bless me also.” So all the Egyptians hurried the people of Israel out of the land quickly because they thought, “We’ll all die!” So the Israelites took their bread dough before yeast was added and wrapped their kneading bowls in their clothes, carrying them on their shoulders. And the people of Israel had done as Moses told them; they had asked the Egyptians for clothing and things of silver and gold. Yahweh caused the Egyptians to be kind to the Israelites, and they gave the Israelites whatever they asked for. So they took the riches of the Egyptians! [37-42] That night the people of Israel left Rameses and went to Succoth, with about 600,000 men on foot, plus all the women and children. A bunch of non-Israelites went with them, along with many flocks and herds. So they baked pancakes from the dough without yeast, which they had brought from Egypt. It was made without yeast because the people were driven out of Egypt in such a hurry that they had no time to make the bread or other food. The people of Israel had lived in Egypt for 430 years. On the last day of the 430th year all the people of Yahweh left Egypt. It’s a night to remember Yahweh for bringing them out of the land of Egypt. So this is the night for all the people of Israel to remember Yahweh, and it will be celebrated every year, from generation to generation. Instructions for the Passover [43-51] Then Yahweh said to Moses and Aaron, “This is what you’ll do for the feast of the Passover. No foreigners will eat it. But any worker who has been bought may eat it if he has had his foreskin cut off. Visitors and hired workers may not eat it. Each Passover lamb will be eaten in one house. Don’t carry any of its meat outside, and don’t break any of its bones. All the people of Israel will celebrate this feast. If a foreigner living among wants to celebrate Yahweh’s Passover, let all their males have their foreskins cut off. Then they may celebrate the Passover with you like a native-born Israelite. But no male who has not had his foreskin cut off may ever eat the Passover meal. This law applies to everyone, whether a native-born Israelite or a foreigner living among you.” So all the people of Israel did what Yahweh had told Moses and Aaron to do. On that very day Yahweh brought the people of Israel out of the land of Egypt by their family groups. Dedication of the Firstborn 13[1-7] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Dedicate to Me every firstborn, whatever opens the womb, among the Israelites, both humans and animals. It’s Mine” So Moses said to the people, “This is a day to remember forever, the day you left Egypt, the place where you worked so hard. Today, Yahweh has brought you out with a strong hand, so remember, eat no food containing yeast. On this day, in the month of Abib, (which means tender and green) you’re going out. After Yahweh brings you into the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Hivites, and Jebusites, which God promised to your ancestors, a land full of milk and honey, you’ll celebrate this event in this month each year. For seven days your bread won’t be made with yeast, and on the seventh day, celebrate a feast to Yahweh. Eat bread without yeast during those seven days. There will be no yeast bread or any yeast at all found in your houses during this time. [8-16] “On the seventh day you’ll explain to your children, ‘I’m doing this because of what Yahweh did for me when I left Egypt.’ This annual feast will be a visible sign to you, like a mark on your hand, to help you remember Yahweh’s Laws because with a strong hand Yahweh saved you out of Egypt.’ So keep the law of this feast at this time each year. When Yahweh gives you the land where the Canaanites now live, as was promised to your ancestors, you’ll set apart all that opens the womb, that is, every firstborn male from all your animals because they belong to Yahweh. But you’ll buy back a firstborn donkey by giving a lamb in its place. But if you don’t want to buy it back, you’ll break its neck. And every firstborn human son you’ll buy back. And in the future, when your children ask you, ‘What does all this mean?’ Then you’ll tell them, ‘With a strong hand, Yahweh brought us out of Egypt, the place where we worked so hard. The ruler of Egypt was stubborn and wouldn’t let us go, so Yahweh killed all the firstborn males throughout the land of Egypt, both people and animals. So I now sacrifice all the firstborn males to Yahweh, but the firstborn sons are always bought back.’ This ceremony will be like a mark on your hand to help you remember that with a strong hand, Yahweh brought us out of Egypt.”
Israel Wanders Through the Countryside [17-22] When the ruler of Egypt finally let the people go, God didn’t lead them by the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was closer. But God said, “The people might change their minds if they’re faced with a war, and go back to Egypt.” So God led them around through the countryside of the Red Sea. So the Israelites left Egypt in order, ranked by their family groups. Moses took the bones of Joseph with him because Joseph had made the sons of Israel promise to do this. He said, “God will certainly come to help you, so take my bones from this place with you.” The Israelites left Succoth and camped at Etham on the edge of the countryside. Yahweh went ahead of them by day with a pillar of cloud to lead the way, and by night with a pillar of fire to give them light, so they could go by day and night. And Yahweh didn’t take the pillar of cloud by day or the pillar of fire by night away from the people. The Egyptians Pursue Israel
14[1-4] Then Yahweh told Moses: “Tell the Israelites to turn and camp by Pi-hahiroth between Migdol and the sea, across from Baal-zephon. Camp there by the sea. Then the ruler of Egypt will think, ‘The Israelites are confused by the land and trapped in the countryside!’ And once again I’ll make the ruler of Egypt’s heart stubborn, and he’ll chase after you. I’ll get more respect than the ruler of Egypt and all his army and the Egyptians will know that I Am Yahweh!” So they camped there as they were told. [5-9] When word reached the ruler of Egypt that the Israelites had left, the ruler of Egypt and his officials changed their minds, saying, “What have we done, letting all those Israelite workers go?” So the ruler of Egypt got his chariot ready and took his troops with him. He took with him 600 of Egypt’s best chariots, along with the rest of the chariots of Egypt, with leaders over them all. So Yahweh made the heart of the ruler of Egypt stubborn, so he chased after the people of Israel, who had bravely left. The Egyptians chased after them with all the horses and chariots of the ruler of Egypt, his horsemen and fighters and caught up with them camping by the seashore near Pi-hahiroth, across from Baal-zephon. [10-14] As the ruler of Egypt approached, the people of Israel looked up and saw the Egyptians catching up with them. They were very scared and prayed to Yahweh. Then they said to Moses, “Why did you bring us out here to die in the countryside? Weren’t there any graves in Egypt? What have you done to us, bringing us out of Egypt? Isn’t this what we told you in Egypt when we said, ‘Leave us alone! Let us work for the Egyptians?’ It’s better to work in Egypt than to die in the countryside!’” But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just be still and watch Yahweh save you today. The Egyptians you see today you’ll never see again. Yahweh will fight for you, so be quiet!” Crossing the Red Sea [15-18] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to go on! Pick up your stick and raise your hand over the sea and divide it. The Israelites will walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground. And I’ll make the hearts of the Egyptians stubborn, and they’ll follow them in. So I’ll get more respect than the ruler of Egypt and all his troops, his chariots, and his horsemen. Then all Egypt will know that I Am Yahweh, when I get respect for Myself over the ruler of Egypt and his armies!” [19-22] Then the angel of God, who had been leading the people of Israel, moved behind the camp. The pillar of cloud moved from the front and stood behind them. The cloud came between the Egyptian and Israelite camps. So it was a cloud and darkness to the Egyptians, and it gave light by night to the Israelites, so neither went to the other all night. Then Moses raised his hand over the sea, and Yahweh held back the water with a strong east wind all that night, turning the seabed into dry land. So the waters were divided. So the people of Israel walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on each side of them! [23-25] Then the Egyptians, all of the ruler of Egypt’s horses, chariots, and horsemen, chased them into the middle of the sea. Just before morning Yahweh looked down on the Egyptian army from the pillar of fire and cloud, and troubled their forces. Their chariot wheels fell off, making their chariots hard to drive, so the Egyptians said, “Let’s run away from these Israelites! Yahweh is fighting for them against Egypt!” [26-28] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Raise your hand over the sea again, so the waters will come back and cover the Egyptian chariots and horsemen.” So as the sun began to rise, Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the sea became deep again, while the Egyptians were moving through it. So Yahweh drowned the Egyptians in the sea. When the waters went back and covered all the chariots and horsemen, all the army of the ruler of Egypt, not one lived. [29-31] But the people of Israel had walked through the middle of the sea on dry ground, as the water stood up like a wall on both sides of them. So Yahweh saved Israel from the hand of the Egyptians that day and the Israelites saw the Egyptians dead on the seashore. When the people of Israel saw the great power that Yahweh had used against the Egyptians, they feared Yahweh. They put their faith in Yahweh and believed Moses, God’s servant. A Song of Deliverance 15[1-7] Then Moses and the people of Israel sang this song to Yahweh: “I’ll sing to Yahweh because You have amazingly won our freedom; You have thrown both horse and rider into the sea. Yahweh is my strength and my song; You have saved me. This is my God, and I’ll praise You, the God of my ancestors, and I’ll applaud You! Yahweh is a strong warrior; Yahweh is God’s name! The ruler of Egypt’s chariots and army You have thrown into the sea. The ruler of Egypt’s best leaders are drowned in the Red Sea. The deep waters covered them; they sank to the bottom like a stone. “Your strong hand, O Yahweh, is amazing in power. Your strong hand, O Yahweh, smashes the enemy in pieces. In the greatness of Your majesty, You overthrow those who rise against You.
You let Your anger burn; and it burns them like straw. [8-13] At the blast of Your breath, the waters rose up! The rising waters stood straight up like a wall; in the heart of the sea the deep waters became hard like glass. “The enemy bragged, ‘I’ll chase them and catch up with them. I’ll steal all their stuff and get what I want from them. I’ll pull my knife; my strong hand will kill them.’ But You blew with Your breath, and the sea covered them. They sank like lead in the great waters. “Who is like You among the gods, O Yahweh, Who is like You, amazing in goodness,
deserving our praises, doing great amazing things? You raised Your strong hand, and the earth swallowed our enemies. With Your forgiveness You lead the people you’ve saved. In Your strength, You guide them to Your place of worship. [14-18] The peoples will hear and tremble; those who live in Philistia will sorrow. The leaders of Edom are confused; the great ones of Moab will tremble. All who live in Canaan will melt away; fear and dread will fall upon them. The power of Your arm makes them stand as still as a stone
until your people pass by, O Yahweh, until the people you purchased pass by. You’ll bring them in and plant them on your own mountain,
the place where You stay, O Yahweh, the place of worship, O Yahweh, that your hands have made. Yahweh will reign forever and ever!” [19-21] When the ruler of Egypt’s horses, chariots, and horsemen went into the sea, Yahweh brought the waters down on them. But the people of Israel went through the middle of the sea on dry ground! Then Miriam, the preacher, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine and led all the women as they played their tambourines and danced. And Miriam sang this song: “I’ll sing to Yahweh because You have amazingly won our freedom; You have thrown both horse and rider into the sea.” Bitter Water at Marah [22-27] Then Moses led the people of Israel away from the Red Sea, and they moved out into the desert of Shur. They traveled in this desert for three days but found no water. When they came to the oasis of Marah, the water was too bitter to drink. So they called the place Marah (which means “bitter”). Then the people complained to Moses, saying, “What are we going to drink?” So Moses prayed to Yahweh for help, and Yahweh showed him a tree. When Moses threw it into the water, it made the water good to drink. It was there at Marah that Yahweh gave them a law to test their faithfulness. God said, “If you’ll listen carefully to the voice of Yahweh your God and do what’s right in My sight, listening to what I tell you and keeping all My laws, then I’ll not make you suffer any of the problems I sent on the Egyptians; because I Am Yahweh who heals you.” Then the Israelites traveled on to the oasis of Elim, where they found twelve springs and seventy palm trees. They camped there beside the water.
Exodus (Going Out) Chapters 6-10
The Israelites are Saved 6[1-5] Then Yahweh told Moses, “Now you’ll see what I’ll do to the ruler of Egypt. With power, he’ll let them go. With power, he’ll drive them out of his land!” And God said to Moses, “I Am Yahweh God.’ I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as El-Shaddai, ‘God Almighty’, but I wasn’t known by My Name, Yahweh, to them. And I made my promise to them to give them the land of Canaan, where they were living as foreigners. I’ve heard the groans of the people of Israel, who the Egyptians make to work so hard, and I’ve remembered my promise to them. [6-9] “So, say to the people of Israel: ‘I Am Yahweh. I’ll free you from your suffering by the Egyptians, and will save you from the hard work they make you do. I’ll save you with great power and great judgments. I’ll take you as my own people, and I’ll be your God. Then you’ll know that I Am Yahweh your God who has freed you from your suffering in Egypt. I’ll bring you into the land I promised to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I’ll give it to you as your own. I Am Yahweh!’” So Moses told the people of Israel this, but they wouldn’t listen because their spirits were made hopeless by the cruel work. [10-13] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Go back to the ruler of Egypt, and tell him to let the people of Israel go out of his land.” But Moses argued, “But God, my own people won’t listen to me, so why would the ruler of Egypt listen to me? I can’t speak well!” But Yahweh spoke to Moses and Aaron and gave them tells for the Israelites and for the ruler of Egypt, to lead the people of Israel out of the land of Egypt. The Ancestors of Moses and Aaron [14] These are the leaders of the families of Israel: The sons of Reuben, Israel’s oldest son were Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi. These are the families of Reuben. [15] The sons of Simeon were Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jakin, Zohar, and Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman. These are the families of Simeon. [16-19] These are the names of the people of Levi, as said by their families: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. (Levi lived to be 137 years old.) The descendants of Gershon were Libni and Shimei, as said by their families. The descendants of Kohath were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel. (Kohath lived to be 133 years old.) The descendants of Merari were Mahli and Mushi. These are the families of the Levites, as said by their families. [20-25] Amram married his father’s sister Jochebed, and she gave birth to his sons, Aaron and Moses. (Amram lived to be 137 years old.) The sons of Izhar were Korah, Nepheg, and Zicri. The sons of Uzziel were Mishael, Elzaphan, and Sithri. Aaron married Elisheba, the daughter of Amminadab and sister of Nahshon, and she gave birth to his sons, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. The sons of Korah were Assir, Elkanah, and Abiasaph. These are the families of Korah. Eleazar son of Aaron married one of the daughters of Putiel, and she had Phinehas. These are the leaders of the Levite families, as said by their families. [26-30] These are the same Aaron and Moses to whom Yahweh said, “Lead the people of Israel out of the land of Egypt in their armies.” These were the same Moses and Aaron who spoke to the ruler of Egypt to bring the people of Israel out of Egypt. When Yahweh spoke to Moses in the land of Egypt, Yahweh said, “I Am Yahweh! Tell the ruler of Egypt, everything I say to you.” But Moses argued with Yahweh, saying, “I can’t speak well! Why would the ruler of Egypt listen to me?” Aaron’s Stick Becomes a Snake 7[1-5] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “See, I’ve made you seem like God to the ruler of Egypt, and your brother, Aaron, will be your preacher. Say everything I tell you, and Aaron will tell the ruler of Egypt to send the people of Israel out of his land. But I’ll make the ruler of Egypt’s heart stubborn, so I can do all my great signs and amazing things in the land of Egypt. But even then the ruler of Egypt won’t listen to you, so I may show My power to Egypt, and bring my armies and my people, the Israelites, out of the land of Egypt with great judgments. And the Egyptians will know that I Am Yahweh when I show My power and bring out the Israelites from among them.” [6-9] So Moses and Aaron did just as Yahweh had told them. Moses was 80 years old, and Aaron was 83 when they spoke to the ruler of Egypt. Then Yahweh said to Moses and Aaron, “The ruler of Egypt will say, ‘Show me a sign to prove yourself.’ When he does this, say to Aaron, ‘Take your stick and throw it down in front of the ruler of Egypt, and it will become a Snake.’” [10-13] So Moses and Aaron went to the ruler of Egypt and did what Yahweh had told them. Aaron threw down his stick before the ruler of Egypt and his officials, and it became a snake! Then the ruler of Egypt called in his own wise men and sorcerers, and these magicians did the same thing with their magic. They threw down their sticks, which also became snakes, but then Aaron’s stick swallowed up their sticks. But the ruler of Egypt’s heart was still stubborn and he still wouldn’t listen, just as Yahweh had said. A Plague of Blood [14-18] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “The ruler of Egypt’s heart is stubborn, and he still won’t let the people go. So go to the ruler of Egypt in the morning as he goes down to the river. Stand on the bank of the Nile and meet him there. Take the stick that turned into a snake with you. Then say to him, ‘Yahweh, the God of the Israelites, has sent me to tell you, “Let my people go, so they can worship me in the countryside.” Until now, you’ve haven’t listened to God so this is what Yahweh says: “I’ll show you that I Am Yahweh.” Look! I’ll hit the water of the Nile with this stick in my hand, and the river will turn to blood. The fish in it will die, and the river will stink, so the Egyptians will hate to drink any water from it.’” [19-25] Then Yahweh said to Moses: “Tell Aaron, ‘Take your stick and raise your hand over the waters of Egypt, all its streams, rivers, ponds, and all their pools of water, so that the water will turn to blood. Everywhere in Egypt the water will turn to blood, even the water stored in wooden buckets and stone pitchers.’” So Moses and Aaron did just as Yahweh told them. Aaron raised his stick and struck the water of the river as the ruler of Egypt and all of his officials watched. Then the whole river turned to blood! The fish in the river died, and the water stank so that the Egyptians couldn’t drink it. So there was blood all over the land of Egypt. But again the magicians of Egypt used their magic, and they, too, turned water into blood, so the ruler of Egypt’s heart was still stubborn and he wouldn’t listen to Moses and Aaron, just as Yahweh had said. The ruler of Egypt went back to his palace and didn’t change his mind. Then all the Egyptians dug along the riverbank to find drinking water, because they couldn’t drink the water from the Nile. Seven days passed from the time Yahweh struck the Nile. A Plague of Frogs 8[1-4] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Go back to the ruler of Egypt and say to him, ‘This is what Yahweh says: Let my people go, so they can worship Me. If you won’t let them go, I’ll send frogs all over your land. Many frogs will come out of the river and come up and into your palace, even into your bedroom and onto your bed! They’ll go into the houses of your officials and your people and even jump into your ovens and your dough bowls. Frogs will jump on you, your people, and all your officials.’”
[5-7]Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Tell Aaron, ‘Raise the stick in your hand over all the streams, rivers, and ponds of Egypt, and bring up the frogs over all the land.’” So Aaron raised his hand over the waters of Egypt, and frogs came up and covered the whole land! But the magicians were able to do the same thing with their magic, and caused more frogs to come up on the land of Egypt. [8-11] Then the ruler of Egypt called Moses and Aaron and begged, “Ask Yahweh to take the frogs away from me and my people and I’ll let your people go, so they can offer sacrifices to Yahweh.” Then Moses said, “You may have the honor of telling me when you want me to pray for you, your officials, and your people that you and your houses will be rid of the frogs and they’ll only stay in the river.” Then the ruler of Egypt said, “Do it tomorrow.” And Moses answered, “Let it be as you’ve said, so you’ll know that there is no one like Yahweh our God. The frogs will leave you and your houses, your officials, and your people. They’ll only stay in the Nile River.” [12-15] So Moses and Aaron left the ruler of Egypt’s palace, and Moses prayed to Yahweh about the frogs God had sent on the ruler of Egypt. And Yahweh did just what Moses had said. The frogs in the houses, the courtyards, and the fields all died. The Egyptians piled them up, and the land stank. But when the ruler of Egypt saw that relief had come, he became stubborn again and wouldn’t listen to Moses and Aaron, just as Yahweh had said. A Plague of Lice [16-19] So Yahweh said to Moses, “Tell Aaron, ‘Raise your stick and hit the dust and it will turn into lice throughout the land of Egypt.’” So Moses and Aaron did just as Yahweh had told them. When Aaron raised his hand and struck the ground with his stick, lice covered the Egyptians and their animals. All the dust in the land of Egypt turned into lice. The ruler of Egypt’s magicians tried to do the same thing with their magic, but this time they couldn’t do it. So the lice covered everyone, both humans and animals. Then the magicians said to the ruler of Egypt “This is the power of God!” But the ruler of Egypt’s heart was still stubborn. He wouldn’t listen to them, just as Yahweh had said. A Plague of Flies [20-23] Then Yahweh told Moses, “Get up early in the morning and stand in the ruler of Egypt’s way as he goes down to the river. Say to him, ‘This is what Yahweh says: Let my people go, so they can worship me. Or else, If you won’t let them go, then I’ll send swarms of flies on you, your officials, your people, and into all the houses. The Egyptian homes will be filled with swarms of flies, and the ground will be covered with them. But this time I’ll spare the land of Goshen, where my people live and no flies will be found there. Then you’ll know that I Am Yahweh even in the heart of your land. I’ll make a difference between* my people and your people. This sign will happen tomorrow.’” [24-27] And Yahweh did just as Moses had said. A thick swarm of flies filled the ruler of Egypt’s palace and the houses of his officials. The whole land of Egypt was destroyed by the flies. So the ruler of Egypt called for Moses and Aaron, saying, “Go offer your sacrifices to God, but do it here in this land.” But Moses answered, “It’s not right to do so, because the Egyptians hate the sacrifices that we offer to Yahweh our God. If we offer the sacrifices which they hate here where the Egyptians can see us, won’t they stone us? We will take a three-day trip into the countryside to offer sacrifices to Yahweh our God, just as we are told to.” [28-32] Then the ruler of Egypt answered, saying, “I’ll let you go into the countryside to offer sacrifices to Yahweh your God, but don’t go too far away. Pray for me.” Then Moses answered, “I’m going and I’ll pray to Yahweh that tomorrow the swarms of flies will go away from you and your officials and all your people. But Don’t lie to us again and not let the people go sacrifice to Yahweh.” So Moses left the ruler of Egypt and prayed to Yahweh. And Yahweh did as Moses asked and caused the swarms of flies to leave from the ruler of Egypt, his officials, and his people. Not one fly stayed behind. But the ruler of Egypt again became stubborn and wouldn’t let the people go.
A Plague against Animals 9[1-7] Then Yahweh told Moses, “Go back to the ruler of Egypt and tell him, ‘This is what Yahweh, the God of the Israelites, says: Let my people go, so they can worship me. If you won’t let them go, and still hold them, Yahweh will send a deadly disease on all your animals, all your horses, donkeys, camels, cattle, and sheep. But Yahweh won’t hurt the animals of the Israelites, only that of the Egyptians. Not one of the people of Israel’s animals will die! Then Yahweh set the time for the plague to begin, saying, “Tomorrow, Yahweh will do this in the land.” So Yahweh did it the next day and all the animals of the Egyptians died, but the Israelites didn’t lose one animal. The ruler of Egypt sent his officials to see, and the Israelites had not lost one animal! But even so, the ruler of Egypt’s heart was still stubborn, and he wouldn’t let the people go. A Plague of Festering Boils [8-12] Then Yahweh said to Moses and Aaron, “Take handfuls of ashes from an oven, and have Moses toss it into the air while the ruler of Egypt watches. The ashes will spread like fine dust over the whole land of Egypt, causing boils to break out in sores on the people and the animals throughout the land.” So they took ashes from an oven and went and stood before the ruler of Egypt and Moses threw the ashes into the air, and boils broke out in sores on all the people and the animals. Even the magicians couldn’t stand before Moses, because the boils had broken out on them and all the Egyptians. But Yahweh made the ruler of Egypt’s heart stubborn, and just as Yahweh had said to Moses, the ruler of Egypt wouldn’t listen. A Plague of Hail [13-21] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Get up early in the morning and stand before the ruler of Egypt and tell him, ‘This is what Yahweh, the God of the Israelites, says: Let my people go, so they can worship Me. If you don’t, I’ll send all My plagues on you yourself, and your officials and your people, that you’ll know that there is no one like Me in all the earth. By now if I had used My power to strike you and your people with a disease, then you would have been wiped off the face of the earth. But I’ve spared you for the purpose of showing you My power and spreading My Name throughout the earth. But you still control my people and won’t to let them go. So tomorrow at this time I’ll send very heavy hail to rain down, worse than any in all the history of Egypt until now. So bring in your animals and tell your workers to come in from the fields. Any person or animal that’s left outside and not brought home will die when the hail falls.’” Some of the ruler of Egypt’s officials who believed Yahweh quickly brought their workers and animals in from the fields. But those who paid no attention to the word of Yahweh left theirs out in the open. [22-26] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Lift your hand toward the sky so hail may fall on the people, the animals, and all the plants throughout the land of Egypt.” So Moses lifted his stick toward the sky, and Yahweh sent thunder and hail, and lightning struck on the ground. So Yahweh rained hail on all the land of Egypt. So there was hail mixed with lightning so heavy that never in all the history of Egypt had there been a storm like that. The hail struck down everything in Egypt, everything left in the fields, all the people, the animals, and the plants. Even the trees were broken. The only place without hail was the land of Goshen, where the people of Israel lived. [27-32] Then the ruler of Egypt quickly called Moses and Aaron, saying, “I’ve sinned this time. Yahweh is right, and my people and I are wrong. Ask Yahweh to end this heavy thunder and hail. We’ve had enough. I’ll let you go; don’t stay any longer!” So Moses answered, “As soon as I leave the city, I’ll lift my hands and pray to Yahweh and the thunder and hail will stop, and you’ll know that the earth belongs to Yahweh. But I know that you and your officials still don’t respect Yahweh God.” (All the flax and barley were ruined by the hail, because the barley had heads and the flax was just budding. But all the wheat was spared, because they’re late crops.) [33-35] So Moses left the ruler of Egypt’s court and went out of the city. When he lifted his hands to Yahweh, the thunder and hail stopped, and the rain stopped pouring. But when the ruler of Egypt saw that the rain, hail, and thunder had stopped, he and his officials sinned again, and the ruler of Egypt again became stubborn. Because he was stubborn in his heart, the ruler of Egypt wouldn’t let the people go, just as Yahweh had said through Moses. A Plague of Locusts 10[1-2] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Go back to the ruler of Egypt. I’ve made him and his officials’ heat’s stubborn so I can show my signs among them. I’ve also done it so you can tell your children and grandchildren about the great things I’ve done in Egypt and about the signs I did among them, and so you’ll know that I Am Yahweh.” [3-6] So Moses and Aaron went to the ruler of Egypt and said, “This is what Yahweh, the God of the Israelites, says: How long will you not obey Me? Let My people go, so they can worship Me. Or else, if you won’t, tomorrow I’ll bring a swarm of locusts on your country. They’ll cover the land so that you won’t be able to see the ground. They’ll eat what little is left of your crops after the hailstorm, including all the trees growing in the fields. They’ll fill your palace, and the homes of your officials and all the houses in Egypt. Your ancestors have never seen a plague like this one in all the history of Egypt!” And Moses turned and left the ruler of Egypt. [7-11] Then the officials came to the ruler of Egypt and begged him. “How long will you let this man do these things to us? Let the men go to worship Yahweh their God! Don’t you know that Egypt in ruined?” So Moses and Aaron were brought back to the ruler of Egypt. He told them, “Go and worship Yahweh your God. But who will be going with you?” So Moses answered, “We’ll all go, young and old, our sons and daughters, and our flocks and herds. We will all join together in celebrating a feast to Yahweh.” Then the ruler of Egypt said, “Yahweh will without a doubt be with you if I let you take your little ones! I know you have evil plans. Never! Only the men may go and worship Yahweh, since that is what you asked.” And the ruler of Egypt threw them out of the palace. [12-15] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Raise your hand over the land of Egypt to bring on the locusts. Let them cover the land and eat every plant left from the hailstorm.” So Moses raised his stick over Egypt, and Yahweh caused an east wind to blow over the land all that day and through the night. When morning came, the east wind had brought the locusts. And the locusts swarmed over the whole land of Egypt, resting on all their land. It was the worst locust plague in Egyptian history, and there has never been another one like it. The locusts covered the whole country and darkened the land. They ate every plant in the fields and all the fruit on the trees that the hailstorm had left. Not one leaf was left on the trees and plants throughout the land of Egypt. [16-20] The ruler of Egypt quickly called Moses and Aaron, saying, “I’ve sinned against Yahweh your God and against you.” “Please becausegive my sin, just this once, and ask Yahweh your God to take away this death from me.” So Moses left the ruler of Egypt and prayed to Yahweh. So Yahweh shifted the wind, and the strong west wind blew the locusts into the Red Sea. Not one locust was left in all the land of Egypt. But Yahweh made the ruler of Egypt’s heart stubborn again, so he wouldn’t let the people go. A Plague of Darkness [21-23] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Lift your hand toward heaven, and the land of Egypt will be covered with darkness, a darkness you can feel.” So Moses lifted his hand to the sky, and a deep darkness covered all the land of Egypt for three days. During all that time the people couldn’t see each other, and no one got up. But the people of Israel had light where they lived. [24-29] Finally, the ruler of Egypt called for Moses, saying, “Go and worship Yahweh, but leave your flocks and herds here. You may take your little ones with you.” But Moses said, “No, you’ll let us take our animals for sacrifices and burnt offerings to Yahweh our God. All our animals will go with us; not one hoof can be left behind. We will choose our sacrifices for Yahweh our God from among these animals and we won’t know which ones to use until we get there.” But Yahweh made the ruler of Egypt’s heart stubborn once more, and he would not let them go. The ruler of Egypt shouted at Moses, “Get out of here! Be careful not to ever come back to see me again! The day you see my face, you’ll die!” So Moses answered, “What you said is good. I’ll never see your face again.”
[5-7]Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Tell Aaron, ‘Raise the stick in your hand over all the streams, rivers, and ponds of Egypt, and bring up the frogs over all the land.’” So Aaron raised his hand over the waters of Egypt, and frogs came up and covered the whole land! But the magicians were able to do the same thing with their magic, and caused more frogs to come up on the land of Egypt. [8-11] Then the ruler of Egypt called Moses and Aaron and begged, “Ask Yahweh to take the frogs away from me and my people and I’ll let your people go, so they can offer sacrifices to Yahweh.” Then Moses said, “You may have the honor of telling me when you want me to pray for you, your officials, and your people that you and your houses will be rid of the frogs and they’ll only stay in the river.” Then the ruler of Egypt said, “Do it tomorrow.” And Moses answered, “Let it be as you’ve said, so you’ll know that there is no one like Yahweh our God. The frogs will leave you and your houses, your officials, and your people. They’ll only stay in the Nile River.” [12-15] So Moses and Aaron left the ruler of Egypt’s palace, and Moses prayed to Yahweh about the frogs God had sent on the ruler of Egypt. And Yahweh did just what Moses had said. The frogs in the houses, the courtyards, and the fields all died. The Egyptians piled them up, and the land stank. But when the ruler of Egypt saw that relief had come, he became stubborn again and wouldn’t listen to Moses and Aaron, just as Yahweh had said. A Plague of Lice [16-19] So Yahweh said to Moses, “Tell Aaron, ‘Raise your stick and hit the dust and it will turn into lice throughout the land of Egypt.’” So Moses and Aaron did just as Yahweh had told them. When Aaron raised his hand and struck the ground with his stick, lice covered the Egyptians and their animals. All the dust in the land of Egypt turned into lice. The ruler of Egypt’s magicians tried to do the same thing with their magic, but this time they couldn’t do it. So the lice covered everyone, both humans and animals. Then the magicians said to the ruler of Egypt “This is the power of God!” But the ruler of Egypt’s heart was still stubborn. He wouldn’t listen to them, just as Yahweh had said. A Plague of Flies [20-23] Then Yahweh told Moses, “Get up early in the morning and stand in the ruler of Egypt’s way as he goes down to the river. Say to him, ‘This is what Yahweh says: Let my people go, so they can worship me. Or else, If you won’t let them go, then I’ll send swarms of flies on you, your officials, your people, and into all the houses. The Egyptian homes will be filled with swarms of flies, and the ground will be covered with them. But this time I’ll spare the land of Goshen, where my people live and no flies will be found there. Then you’ll know that I Am Yahweh even in the heart of your land. I’ll make a difference between* my people and your people. This sign will happen tomorrow.’” [24-27] And Yahweh did just as Moses had said. A thick swarm of flies filled the ruler of Egypt’s palace and the houses of his officials. The whole land of Egypt was destroyed by the flies. So the ruler of Egypt called for Moses and Aaron, saying, “Go offer your sacrifices to God, but do it here in this land.” But Moses answered, “It’s not right to do so, because the Egyptians hate the sacrifices that we offer to Yahweh our God. If we offer the sacrifices which they hate here where the Egyptians can see us, won’t they stone us? We will take a three-day trip into the countryside to offer sacrifices to Yahweh our God, just as we are told to.” [28-32] Then the ruler of Egypt answered, saying, “I’ll let you go into the countryside to offer sacrifices to Yahweh your God, but don’t go too far away. Pray for me.” Then Moses answered, “I’m going and I’ll pray to Yahweh that tomorrow the swarms of flies will go away from you and your officials and all your people. But Don’t lie to us again and not let the people go sacrifice to Yahweh.” So Moses left the ruler of Egypt and prayed to Yahweh. And Yahweh did as Moses asked and caused the swarms of flies to leave from the ruler of Egypt, his officials, and his people. Not one fly stayed behind. But the ruler of Egypt again became stubborn and wouldn’t let the people go.
A Plague against Animals 9[1-7] Then Yahweh told Moses, “Go back to the ruler of Egypt and tell him, ‘This is what Yahweh, the God of the Israelites, says: Let my people go, so they can worship me. If you won’t let them go, and still hold them, Yahweh will send a deadly disease on all your animals, all your horses, donkeys, camels, cattle, and sheep. But Yahweh won’t hurt the animals of the Israelites, only that of the Egyptians. Not one of the people of Israel’s animals will die! Then Yahweh set the time for the plague to begin, saying, “Tomorrow, Yahweh will do this in the land.” So Yahweh did it the next day and all the animals of the Egyptians died, but the Israelites didn’t lose one animal. The ruler of Egypt sent his officials to see, and the Israelites had not lost one animal! But even so, the ruler of Egypt’s heart was still stubborn, and he wouldn’t let the people go. A Plague of Festering Boils [8-12] Then Yahweh said to Moses and Aaron, “Take handfuls of ashes from an oven, and have Moses toss it into the air while the ruler of Egypt watches. The ashes will spread like fine dust over the whole land of Egypt, causing boils to break out in sores on the people and the animals throughout the land.” So they took ashes from an oven and went and stood before the ruler of Egypt and Moses threw the ashes into the air, and boils broke out in sores on all the people and the animals. Even the magicians couldn’t stand before Moses, because the boils had broken out on them and all the Egyptians. But Yahweh made the ruler of Egypt’s heart stubborn, and just as Yahweh had said to Moses, the ruler of Egypt wouldn’t listen. A Plague of Hail [13-21] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Get up early in the morning and stand before the ruler of Egypt and tell him, ‘This is what Yahweh, the God of the Israelites, says: Let my people go, so they can worship Me. If you don’t, I’ll send all My plagues on you yourself, and your officials and your people, that you’ll know that there is no one like Me in all the earth. By now if I had used My power to strike you and your people with a disease, then you would have been wiped off the face of the earth. But I’ve spared you for the purpose of showing you My power and spreading My Name throughout the earth. But you still control my people and won’t to let them go. So tomorrow at this time I’ll send very heavy hail to rain down, worse than any in all the history of Egypt until now. So bring in your animals and tell your workers to come in from the fields. Any person or animal that’s left outside and not brought home will die when the hail falls.’” Some of the ruler of Egypt’s officials who believed Yahweh quickly brought their workers and animals in from the fields. But those who paid no attention to the word of Yahweh left theirs out in the open. [22-26] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Lift your hand toward the sky so hail may fall on the people, the animals, and all the plants throughout the land of Egypt.” So Moses lifted his stick toward the sky, and Yahweh sent thunder and hail, and lightning struck on the ground. So Yahweh rained hail on all the land of Egypt. So there was hail mixed with lightning so heavy that never in all the history of Egypt had there been a storm like that. The hail struck down everything in Egypt, everything left in the fields, all the people, the animals, and the plants. Even the trees were broken. The only place without hail was the land of Goshen, where the people of Israel lived. [27-32] Then the ruler of Egypt quickly called Moses and Aaron, saying, “I’ve sinned this time. Yahweh is right, and my people and I are wrong. Ask Yahweh to end this heavy thunder and hail. We’ve had enough. I’ll let you go; don’t stay any longer!” So Moses answered, “As soon as I leave the city, I’ll lift my hands and pray to Yahweh and the thunder and hail will stop, and you’ll know that the earth belongs to Yahweh. But I know that you and your officials still don’t respect Yahweh God.” (All the flax and barley were ruined by the hail, because the barley had heads and the flax was just budding. But all the wheat was spared, because they’re late crops.) [33-35] So Moses left the ruler of Egypt’s court and went out of the city. When he lifted his hands to Yahweh, the thunder and hail stopped, and the rain stopped pouring. But when the ruler of Egypt saw that the rain, hail, and thunder had stopped, he and his officials sinned again, and the ruler of Egypt again became stubborn. Because he was stubborn in his heart, the ruler of Egypt wouldn’t let the people go, just as Yahweh had said through Moses. A Plague of Locusts 10[1-2] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Go back to the ruler of Egypt. I’ve made him and his officials’ heat’s stubborn so I can show my signs among them. I’ve also done it so you can tell your children and grandchildren about the great things I’ve done in Egypt and about the signs I did among them, and so you’ll know that I Am Yahweh.” [3-6] So Moses and Aaron went to the ruler of Egypt and said, “This is what Yahweh, the God of the Israelites, says: How long will you not obey Me? Let My people go, so they can worship Me. Or else, if you won’t, tomorrow I’ll bring a swarm of locusts on your country. They’ll cover the land so that you won’t be able to see the ground. They’ll eat what little is left of your crops after the hailstorm, including all the trees growing in the fields. They’ll fill your palace, and the homes of your officials and all the houses in Egypt. Your ancestors have never seen a plague like this one in all the history of Egypt!” And Moses turned and left the ruler of Egypt. [7-11] Then the officials came to the ruler of Egypt and begged him. “How long will you let this man do these things to us? Let the men go to worship Yahweh their God! Don’t you know that Egypt in ruined?” So Moses and Aaron were brought back to the ruler of Egypt. He told them, “Go and worship Yahweh your God. But who will be going with you?” So Moses answered, “We’ll all go, young and old, our sons and daughters, and our flocks and herds. We will all join together in celebrating a feast to Yahweh.” Then the ruler of Egypt said, “Yahweh will without a doubt be with you if I let you take your little ones! I know you have evil plans. Never! Only the men may go and worship Yahweh, since that is what you asked.” And the ruler of Egypt threw them out of the palace. [12-15] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Raise your hand over the land of Egypt to bring on the locusts. Let them cover the land and eat every plant left from the hailstorm.” So Moses raised his stick over Egypt, and Yahweh caused an east wind to blow over the land all that day and through the night. When morning came, the east wind had brought the locusts. And the locusts swarmed over the whole land of Egypt, resting on all their land. It was the worst locust plague in Egyptian history, and there has never been another one like it. The locusts covered the whole country and darkened the land. They ate every plant in the fields and all the fruit on the trees that the hailstorm had left. Not one leaf was left on the trees and plants throughout the land of Egypt. [16-20] The ruler of Egypt quickly called Moses and Aaron, saying, “I’ve sinned against Yahweh your God and against you.” “Please becausegive my sin, just this once, and ask Yahweh your God to take away this death from me.” So Moses left the ruler of Egypt and prayed to Yahweh. So Yahweh shifted the wind, and the strong west wind blew the locusts into the Red Sea. Not one locust was left in all the land of Egypt. But Yahweh made the ruler of Egypt’s heart stubborn again, so he wouldn’t let the people go. A Plague of Darkness [21-23] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Lift your hand toward heaven, and the land of Egypt will be covered with darkness, a darkness you can feel.” So Moses lifted his hand to the sky, and a deep darkness covered all the land of Egypt for three days. During all that time the people couldn’t see each other, and no one got up. But the people of Israel had light where they lived. [24-29] Finally, the ruler of Egypt called for Moses, saying, “Go and worship Yahweh, but leave your flocks and herds here. You may take your little ones with you.” But Moses said, “No, you’ll let us take our animals for sacrifices and burnt offerings to Yahweh our God. All our animals will go with us; not one hoof can be left behind. We will choose our sacrifices for Yahweh our God from among these animals and we won’t know which ones to use until we get there.” But Yahweh made the ruler of Egypt’s heart stubborn once more, and he would not let them go. The ruler of Egypt shouted at Moses, “Get out of here! Be careful not to ever come back to see me again! The day you see my face, you’ll die!” So Moses answered, “What you said is good. I’ll never see your face again.”
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Go Fish Ministries, Inc. News Letter May.1, 2010
Go Fish Ministries, Inc. News Letter May.1, 2010
Jesus said: Follow me and I will make you fishers for the souls of others. Matthew 4:19
Sis. Kimberly Hartfield, B.S. M.S. Christian Community Consultant/Spiritual Peer Counselor Contact: gofishbooks@gmail.com
Counselors’ Corner
May is here, and with it the last few weeks of homeschooling. I’m finishing up Science and History with Selah, but it looks like we will be doing Grammar through the summer. I hate Grammar! Oh well! We’ll eventually get it all done. I love homeschooling for the most part, and the kids learn so quickly. I have to brag a little, cause my kids are really smart! I’m so proud of them all! And I’m about to get a new daughter-in-law, Amanda, who is Tommy’s fiancé! I really like her, too. She’s a good kid! I needed one more! And just in time for Mother’s Day! Well to all you other Mother’s out there, have a very happy Mother’s Day! It’s a good time to remember our awesome responsibility that God has given us, and pray for all our children, even those who may have strayed from the fold. God’s word says the angels rejoice over that one little lost lamb more than the ninety-nine who didn’t stray! I’m with them on that one all the way! I trust that God will bring those who’ve strayed back to the fold someday, and I’ll be jumping up and down and shoutin’ with the angels when it happens!
I have something else to rejoice over right now, though. My oldest brother, who I have been estranged from since my father’s death, told me he loves me recently!!! I’m not sure that we’ll ever agree on what was done at Daddy’s death, but I know I love him and he loves me, so I believe there has been forgiveness where it was due. This is an answer to prayer, which I’ve been seeking since Daddy died two years ago. God is awesome! I have one other brother, who is still not speaking to me, but I trust he will eventually come around as well. I have asked forgiveness when daddy was in the hospital, but so far, he has not extended that grace. When they pulled daddy’s food, water, and antibiotics, I was furious and told them they’d burn in hell. I wish I’d never had said those words, but I did out of anger. I still believe it’s wrong to take anyone’s food and water, especially when they’re dying, but I know that they did what they believed was right at the time. I know that they did it out of love. Please pray with me that there will be family reconciliation and forgiveness in this matter.
Well my garden is doing pretty good, though I’m having some problems with cut worms. I’ve put plant collars around most everything, but they still seem to be getting one or two plants every now and then. I just hope to minimize the damage. My asparagus is doing pretty good, but I think I need to dig it and divide it after the harvest is over. My greens are doing very well for the most part and we’ve gotten several serving of turnips and other greens so far. My corn is up to about a foot high, so maybe we might get some this year, but we’ll see. I tried it a couple of years ago and a storm killed it all. I have cabbage growing for the first time and broccoli and cauliflower. It’s small, but still growing. Tomato plants are growing well and cucumber are just about big enough to start climbing the fence. My baby lettuces are finally getting big enough to eat a few in salads now. I’ve got some Egyptain tree onions that won’t die no matter what you do to them, and they’re making lots of baby onions to plant. These are great green onions as the bulbs don’t get very big. Some of my cantaloupes are coming up now, finally, but still no eggplant. The seeds just don’t seem to be germinating.
I just read something in Selah’s history book today that I think I’ll try. It said that the people out west plant their seeds deeper than we do here, so the seeds will germinate better and the plant roots will get established without drying out so quickly. Since it’s been so hot lately, I think I’ll try to plant a little deeper next time and see if that makes a difference. Overall I think my garden is a success this year, and I have learned a lot from the research and study I’ve done. I do hope all of you out there will consider planting a small garden and don’t forget to save seed for the year to come. With the food seed of the world mainly being controlled by one company, I believe it may be a life or death situation for us all. In any case, it’s better to be safe than sorry. So I’m digging in and getting my hands dirty a little!
I have also been fervently working on a new website for my Go Fish Christian Books. I’ve had a little trouble and had to start over twice but it’s now online and I would really appreciate any purchases so I can see if everything works right. Please take a look at it. The categories are located at the bottom right of the page and featured books are on the bottom left. I have no other income at this time so please help me out if you can. My electricity is days away from being cut off (May 5). Please pray that this is successful. Our livelyhood depends on it. I have no other options at this time as I still have not found employment. Please forward this link to any and all who may be interested, as well. Please let me know if you have any problems with the website. God bless to all and go fish for Jesus!
Web site address
http://stores.intuitwebsites.com/gofishchristianbooks/StoreFront.bok
News Briefs
www.OneNewsNow.com
Notes and Prayer Requests
• Several people that I have met as of late have had to leave their husbands because they found out their husbands were molesting their children. This is in epidemic proportions. Please pray for these unnamed families. And pray that I can minister to these broken hearted ladies.
• I am a Christian Counselor and would be willing to provide services to those in need. I have a master’s degree in Psychological Counseling and am an ordained Minister as well. Please pray that I may be useful to God’s kingdom. I can also mow yards, clean houses or anything else that needs doing. I charge $50 for a yard or 3 BR house. You provide the equipment.
• I have published all of my paraphrases on the Triond website. The links are listed below in several Daily Bible Reading Plans, if anyone wants to check them out. I have now published all of the New Testament, the Proverbs, and the Psalms online. You can see all of my writings by going to my main Triond link at https://www.triond.com/users/Mama+Heartfilled
• I would appreciate if you’d let me know of grammar, punctuation, and other mistakes I may have made. My goal is to make the paraphrase as simple and clear as possible. I know they still need much work, as they are drafts of a work in progress. I don’t know of any other Bible that uses the Name of Yahweh (I am in Hebrew), so I have worked hard to get it right. Please pray that God helps me in this work, and let me know of any mistakes you find. Thank all of you who are praying for me on this.
Daily Bible Reading Plans for the New Word, The Old Sayings, and The Old Hymns
The New Word, The Old Sayings and The Old Hymns is a unique feminist approach to a gender-neutral paraphrase of the Holy Bible, which uses the true name of Yahweh God and of Yeshua, the Christ, rather than the traditional man made form of Jehovah. I attempted this several year project out of a strong desire to make known the true name of Yahweh God and to help complete the great commission of Jesus Christ. It is the first Bible to my knowledge that uses the Name of God in its proper form, which had fallen out of use because of the Hebraic tradition to not say it at all by replacing it with Lord (Adoni) or God (Elohim), for fear of using it in vain. Yahweh, in the Hebrew, simply means I AM. Yahweh God is the great I AM!
This paraphrase is a working draft, and these are the published excerpts in the completed series. This version is particularly intended to reach an audience on the internet, that may not just go pick up a Bible and read it. I would like to encourage Christians and non-Christians alike to read through them using one of the suggested reading plans below and comment on them, whether you have a critique, editing correction, or praise. I am particularly looking for clarity of ideas, and simplicity for a younger or less educated audiences, which may have trouble reading and understanding some of the other more traditional versions. Archaic language, has been replaced by more modern readings of the ideas presented in the KJV. If you find a section that is still somewhat difficult to read, or understand, please let me know your thoughts on it. I would like to make all the corrections necessary before attempting further publication and dissemination. I am asking for the Triond community and other readers to help me find any significant errors, and check for readability.
Sincerely Yours,
Sis. Kimberly M. Hartfield
B.S., M.S. - Christian Counselor, Ordained Minister
For a faster pace use this plan:
21 Days through the Psalms and Proverbs
40 Days Through the New Word
For a slower pace use this plan:
21 Days through the Gospels and Acts of the Followers
30 Days Through the Letters and Revelation
21 Days through the Psalms and Proverbs
21 Days through the Psalms and Proverbs
The Psalms
Day 1 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapters-1-10/
Day 2 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapters-11-20/
Day 3 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-21-30/
Day 4 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-31-35/
Day 5 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-36-41/
Day 6 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-42-45/
Day 7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-46-50/
Day 8 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-51-60/
Day 9 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-61-72/
Day 10 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-73-80/
Day 11 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-81-89/
Day 12 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-90-100/
Day 13 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-101-106/
Day 14 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-107-118/
Day 15 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-119-120/
Day 16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-121-140/
Day 17 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-141-150/
The Proverbs
Day 18 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-sayings-proverbs-chapter-1-7/
Day 19 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-sayings-proverbs-8-14/
Day 20 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-sayings-proverbs-chapters-15-21/
Day 21 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-sayings-proverbs-chapters-22-31/
40 Days Through the New Word
Day 1 Mathew 1-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapters-1-7/
Day 2 Mathew 8-14 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-8-14/
Day 3 Mathew 15-21 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-15-21/
Day 4 Mathew 22-28 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-22-28/
Day 5 Mark 1-4 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapter-1-4/
Mark 4-8 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapter-4-8/
Day 6 Mark 9-12 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapters-9-12/
Mark 13-16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapters-13-16/
Day 7 Luke 1-4 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-1-4/
Luke 5-8 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-5-8/
Day 8 Luke 9-12 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-9-12/
Luke 13-16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-13-16/
Day 9 Luke 17-20 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-17-20/
Luke 21-24 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-21-24/
Day 10 John 1-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-1-7/
Day 11 John 8-14 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-8-14/
Day 12 John 15-21 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-15-21/
Day 13 Acts 1-7 http://www.relijournal.com/Christianity/The-Acts-of-the-Followers-Chapters-1-7.672465
Day 14 Acts 8-14 http://relijournal.com/christianity/acts-of-the-followers-chapter-8-14/
Day 15 Acts 15-21 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-acts-of-the-followers-chapters-15-21/
Day 16 Acts 22-28 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-acts-of-the-followers-chapters-22-28/
Day 17 Romans 1-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-romans-chapters-1-7/
Day 18 Romans 8-16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-romans-ch-8-16/
Day 19 I Corinthians 1-4 http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-1-4/
I Corinthians 5-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-5-7/
Day 20 I Corinthians 8-11 http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-8-11-paul%e2%80%99s-first-letter-to-the-corinthians/
I Corinthians 12-16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-12-16/
Day 21 II Corinthians 1-3 http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-1-3/
II Corinthians 4-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-4-7/
Day 22 II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-8-10/
II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-11-13/
Day 23 Galatians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-galatians/
Day 24 Ephesians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-ephesians/
Day 25 Philippians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-philippians/
Day 26 Colossians http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-letter-to-the-collossians/
Day 27 I Thessalonians http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-first-letter-to-the-thessalonians/
II Thessalonians http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-second-letter-to-the-thesalonians-the-holy-bible/
Day 28 I Timothy http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-first-letter-to-timothy/
II Timothy http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-timothy/
Day 29 Titus http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-letter-to-titus/
Philemon http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-philemon/
Day 30 Hebrews http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-to-the-hebrews/
Day 31 James http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-from-james/
I Peter http://relijournal.com/christianity/peter-i/
II Peter http://relijournal.com/christianity/peter-ii/
Day 32 I John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-first-letter-from-john/
II John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-second-letter-from-john/
III John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-third-letter-from-john/
Jude http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-from-jude/
Day 33 Revelation 1-3 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-1-3/
Day 34 Revelation 4-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-revelation-of-john-chapters-4-7/
Day 35 Revelation 8-11 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-revelation-of-john-chapters-8-11/
Day 36 Revelation 12-13 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapter-12-13/
Day 37 Revelation 14-15 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-14-15/
Day 38 Revelation 16-18 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-16-18/
Day 39 Revelation 19-20 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-19-20/
Day 40 Revelation 21-22 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-21-22/
21 Days through the Gospels and Acts of the Followers
Mathew
Day 1 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapters-1-7/
Day 2 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-8-14/
Day 3 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-15-21/
Day 4 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-22-28/
Mark
Day 5 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapter-1-4/
Day 6 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapter-4-8/
Day 7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapters-9-12/
Day 8 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapters-13-16/
Luke
Day 9 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-1-4/
Day 10 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-5-8/
Day 11 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-9-12/
Day 12 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-13-16/
Day 13 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-17-20/
Day 14 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-21-24/
John
Day 15 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-1-7/
Day 16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-8-14/
Day 17 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-15-21/
Acts
Day 18 http://www.relijournal.com/Christianity/The-Acts-of-the-Followers-Chapters-1-7.672465
Day 19 http://relijournal.com/christianity/acts-of-the-followers-chapter-8-14/
Day 20 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-acts-of-the-followers-chapters-15-21/
Day 21 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-acts-of-the-followers-chapters-22-28/
30 Days Through the Letters and Revelation
Day 1 Romans http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-romans-chapters-1-7/
Day 2 Romans http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-romans-ch-8-16/
Day 3 I Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-1-4/
Day 4 I Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-5-7/
Day 5 I Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-8-11-paul%e2%80%99s-first-letter-to-the-corinthians/
Day 6 I Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-12-16/
Day 7 II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-1-3/
Day 8 II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-4-7/
Day 9 II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-8-10/
Day 10 II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-11-13/
Day 11 Galatians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-galatians/
Day 12 Ephesians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-ephesians/
Day 13 Philippians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-philippians/
Day 14 Colossians http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-letter-to-the-collossians/
Day 15 I Thessalonians http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-first-letter-to-the-thessalonians/
Day 16 II Thessalonians http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-second-letter-to-the-thesalonians-the-holy-bible/
Day 17 I Timothy http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-first-letter-to-timothy/
Day 18 II Timothy http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-timothy/
Day 19 Titus http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-letter-to-titus/
Day 20 Philemon http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-philemon/
Day 21 Hebrews http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-to-the-hebrews/
Day 22 James http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-from-james/
Day 23 I Peter http://relijournal.com/christianity/peter-i/
Day 24 II Peter http://relijournal.com/christianity/peter-ii/
Day 25 I John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-first-letter-from-john/
Day 26 II John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-second-letter-from-john/
III John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-third-letter-from-john/
Jude http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-from-jude/
Day 27 Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-1-3/
Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-revelation-of-john-chapters-4-7/
Day 28 Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-revelation-of-john-chapters-8-11/
Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapter-12-13/
Day 29 Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-14-15/
Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-16-18/
Day 30 Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-19-20/
Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-21-22/
Jesus said: Follow me and I will make you fishers for the souls of others. Matthew 4:19
Sis. Kimberly Hartfield, B.S. M.S. Christian Community Consultant/Spiritual Peer Counselor Contact: gofishbooks@gmail.com
Counselors’ Corner
May is here, and with it the last few weeks of homeschooling. I’m finishing up Science and History with Selah, but it looks like we will be doing Grammar through the summer. I hate Grammar! Oh well! We’ll eventually get it all done. I love homeschooling for the most part, and the kids learn so quickly. I have to brag a little, cause my kids are really smart! I’m so proud of them all! And I’m about to get a new daughter-in-law, Amanda, who is Tommy’s fiancé! I really like her, too. She’s a good kid! I needed one more! And just in time for Mother’s Day! Well to all you other Mother’s out there, have a very happy Mother’s Day! It’s a good time to remember our awesome responsibility that God has given us, and pray for all our children, even those who may have strayed from the fold. God’s word says the angels rejoice over that one little lost lamb more than the ninety-nine who didn’t stray! I’m with them on that one all the way! I trust that God will bring those who’ve strayed back to the fold someday, and I’ll be jumping up and down and shoutin’ with the angels when it happens!
I have something else to rejoice over right now, though. My oldest brother, who I have been estranged from since my father’s death, told me he loves me recently!!! I’m not sure that we’ll ever agree on what was done at Daddy’s death, but I know I love him and he loves me, so I believe there has been forgiveness where it was due. This is an answer to prayer, which I’ve been seeking since Daddy died two years ago. God is awesome! I have one other brother, who is still not speaking to me, but I trust he will eventually come around as well. I have asked forgiveness when daddy was in the hospital, but so far, he has not extended that grace. When they pulled daddy’s food, water, and antibiotics, I was furious and told them they’d burn in hell. I wish I’d never had said those words, but I did out of anger. I still believe it’s wrong to take anyone’s food and water, especially when they’re dying, but I know that they did what they believed was right at the time. I know that they did it out of love. Please pray with me that there will be family reconciliation and forgiveness in this matter.
Well my garden is doing pretty good, though I’m having some problems with cut worms. I’ve put plant collars around most everything, but they still seem to be getting one or two plants every now and then. I just hope to minimize the damage. My asparagus is doing pretty good, but I think I need to dig it and divide it after the harvest is over. My greens are doing very well for the most part and we’ve gotten several serving of turnips and other greens so far. My corn is up to about a foot high, so maybe we might get some this year, but we’ll see. I tried it a couple of years ago and a storm killed it all. I have cabbage growing for the first time and broccoli and cauliflower. It’s small, but still growing. Tomato plants are growing well and cucumber are just about big enough to start climbing the fence. My baby lettuces are finally getting big enough to eat a few in salads now. I’ve got some Egyptain tree onions that won’t die no matter what you do to them, and they’re making lots of baby onions to plant. These are great green onions as the bulbs don’t get very big. Some of my cantaloupes are coming up now, finally, but still no eggplant. The seeds just don’t seem to be germinating.
I just read something in Selah’s history book today that I think I’ll try. It said that the people out west plant their seeds deeper than we do here, so the seeds will germinate better and the plant roots will get established without drying out so quickly. Since it’s been so hot lately, I think I’ll try to plant a little deeper next time and see if that makes a difference. Overall I think my garden is a success this year, and I have learned a lot from the research and study I’ve done. I do hope all of you out there will consider planting a small garden and don’t forget to save seed for the year to come. With the food seed of the world mainly being controlled by one company, I believe it may be a life or death situation for us all. In any case, it’s better to be safe than sorry. So I’m digging in and getting my hands dirty a little!
I have also been fervently working on a new website for my Go Fish Christian Books. I’ve had a little trouble and had to start over twice but it’s now online and I would really appreciate any purchases so I can see if everything works right. Please take a look at it. The categories are located at the bottom right of the page and featured books are on the bottom left. I have no other income at this time so please help me out if you can. My electricity is days away from being cut off (May 5). Please pray that this is successful. Our livelyhood depends on it. I have no other options at this time as I still have not found employment. Please forward this link to any and all who may be interested, as well. Please let me know if you have any problems with the website. God bless to all and go fish for Jesus!
Web site address
http://stores.intuitwebsites.com/gofishchristianbooks/StoreFront.bok
News Briefs
www.OneNewsNow.com
Notes and Prayer Requests
• Several people that I have met as of late have had to leave their husbands because they found out their husbands were molesting their children. This is in epidemic proportions. Please pray for these unnamed families. And pray that I can minister to these broken hearted ladies.
• I am a Christian Counselor and would be willing to provide services to those in need. I have a master’s degree in Psychological Counseling and am an ordained Minister as well. Please pray that I may be useful to God’s kingdom. I can also mow yards, clean houses or anything else that needs doing. I charge $50 for a yard or 3 BR house. You provide the equipment.
• I have published all of my paraphrases on the Triond website. The links are listed below in several Daily Bible Reading Plans, if anyone wants to check them out. I have now published all of the New Testament, the Proverbs, and the Psalms online. You can see all of my writings by going to my main Triond link at https://www.triond.com/users/Mama+Heartfilled
• I would appreciate if you’d let me know of grammar, punctuation, and other mistakes I may have made. My goal is to make the paraphrase as simple and clear as possible. I know they still need much work, as they are drafts of a work in progress. I don’t know of any other Bible that uses the Name of Yahweh (I am in Hebrew), so I have worked hard to get it right. Please pray that God helps me in this work, and let me know of any mistakes you find. Thank all of you who are praying for me on this.
Daily Bible Reading Plans for the New Word, The Old Sayings, and The Old Hymns
The New Word, The Old Sayings and The Old Hymns is a unique feminist approach to a gender-neutral paraphrase of the Holy Bible, which uses the true name of Yahweh God and of Yeshua, the Christ, rather than the traditional man made form of Jehovah. I attempted this several year project out of a strong desire to make known the true name of Yahweh God and to help complete the great commission of Jesus Christ. It is the first Bible to my knowledge that uses the Name of God in its proper form, which had fallen out of use because of the Hebraic tradition to not say it at all by replacing it with Lord (Adoni) or God (Elohim), for fear of using it in vain. Yahweh, in the Hebrew, simply means I AM. Yahweh God is the great I AM!
This paraphrase is a working draft, and these are the published excerpts in the completed series. This version is particularly intended to reach an audience on the internet, that may not just go pick up a Bible and read it. I would like to encourage Christians and non-Christians alike to read through them using one of the suggested reading plans below and comment on them, whether you have a critique, editing correction, or praise. I am particularly looking for clarity of ideas, and simplicity for a younger or less educated audiences, which may have trouble reading and understanding some of the other more traditional versions. Archaic language, has been replaced by more modern readings of the ideas presented in the KJV. If you find a section that is still somewhat difficult to read, or understand, please let me know your thoughts on it. I would like to make all the corrections necessary before attempting further publication and dissemination. I am asking for the Triond community and other readers to help me find any significant errors, and check for readability.
Sincerely Yours,
Sis. Kimberly M. Hartfield
B.S., M.S. - Christian Counselor, Ordained Minister
For a faster pace use this plan:
21 Days through the Psalms and Proverbs
40 Days Through the New Word
For a slower pace use this plan:
21 Days through the Gospels and Acts of the Followers
30 Days Through the Letters and Revelation
21 Days through the Psalms and Proverbs
21 Days through the Psalms and Proverbs
The Psalms
Day 1 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapters-1-10/
Day 2 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapters-11-20/
Day 3 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-21-30/
Day 4 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-31-35/
Day 5 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-36-41/
Day 6 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-42-45/
Day 7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-46-50/
Day 8 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-51-60/
Day 9 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-61-72/
Day 10 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-73-80/
Day 11 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-81-89/
Day 12 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-90-100/
Day 13 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-101-106/
Day 14 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-107-118/
Day 15 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-119-120/
Day 16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-121-140/
Day 17 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-hymns-psalms-chapter-141-150/
The Proverbs
Day 18 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-sayings-proverbs-chapter-1-7/
Day 19 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-sayings-proverbs-8-14/
Day 20 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-sayings-proverbs-chapters-15-21/
Day 21 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-old-sayings-proverbs-chapters-22-31/
40 Days Through the New Word
Day 1 Mathew 1-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapters-1-7/
Day 2 Mathew 8-14 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-8-14/
Day 3 Mathew 15-21 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-15-21/
Day 4 Mathew 22-28 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-22-28/
Day 5 Mark 1-4 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapter-1-4/
Mark 4-8 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapter-4-8/
Day 6 Mark 9-12 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapters-9-12/
Mark 13-16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapters-13-16/
Day 7 Luke 1-4 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-1-4/
Luke 5-8 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-5-8/
Day 8 Luke 9-12 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-9-12/
Luke 13-16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-13-16/
Day 9 Luke 17-20 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-17-20/
Luke 21-24 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-21-24/
Day 10 John 1-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-1-7/
Day 11 John 8-14 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-8-14/
Day 12 John 15-21 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-15-21/
Day 13 Acts 1-7 http://www.relijournal.com/Christianity/The-Acts-of-the-Followers-Chapters-1-7.672465
Day 14 Acts 8-14 http://relijournal.com/christianity/acts-of-the-followers-chapter-8-14/
Day 15 Acts 15-21 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-acts-of-the-followers-chapters-15-21/
Day 16 Acts 22-28 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-acts-of-the-followers-chapters-22-28/
Day 17 Romans 1-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-romans-chapters-1-7/
Day 18 Romans 8-16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-romans-ch-8-16/
Day 19 I Corinthians 1-4 http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-1-4/
I Corinthians 5-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-5-7/
Day 20 I Corinthians 8-11 http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-8-11-paul%e2%80%99s-first-letter-to-the-corinthians/
I Corinthians 12-16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-12-16/
Day 21 II Corinthians 1-3 http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-1-3/
II Corinthians 4-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-4-7/
Day 22 II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-8-10/
II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-11-13/
Day 23 Galatians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-galatians/
Day 24 Ephesians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-ephesians/
Day 25 Philippians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-philippians/
Day 26 Colossians http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-letter-to-the-collossians/
Day 27 I Thessalonians http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-first-letter-to-the-thessalonians/
II Thessalonians http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-second-letter-to-the-thesalonians-the-holy-bible/
Day 28 I Timothy http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-first-letter-to-timothy/
II Timothy http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-timothy/
Day 29 Titus http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-letter-to-titus/
Philemon http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-philemon/
Day 30 Hebrews http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-to-the-hebrews/
Day 31 James http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-from-james/
I Peter http://relijournal.com/christianity/peter-i/
II Peter http://relijournal.com/christianity/peter-ii/
Day 32 I John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-first-letter-from-john/
II John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-second-letter-from-john/
III John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-third-letter-from-john/
Jude http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-from-jude/
Day 33 Revelation 1-3 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-1-3/
Day 34 Revelation 4-7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-revelation-of-john-chapters-4-7/
Day 35 Revelation 8-11 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-revelation-of-john-chapters-8-11/
Day 36 Revelation 12-13 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapter-12-13/
Day 37 Revelation 14-15 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-14-15/
Day 38 Revelation 16-18 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-16-18/
Day 39 Revelation 19-20 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-19-20/
Day 40 Revelation 21-22 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-21-22/
21 Days through the Gospels and Acts of the Followers
Mathew
Day 1 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapters-1-7/
Day 2 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-8-14/
Day 3 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-15-21/
Day 4 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-matthew-chapter-22-28/
Mark
Day 5 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapter-1-4/
Day 6 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapter-4-8/
Day 7 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapters-9-12/
Day 8 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-mark-chapters-13-16/
Luke
Day 9 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-1-4/
Day 10 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-5-8/
Day 11 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-9-12/
Day 12 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-13-16/
Day 13 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-17-20/
Day 14 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-luke-chapters-21-24/
John
Day 15 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-1-7/
Day 16 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-8-14/
Day 17 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-new-word-according-to-john-chapters-15-21/
Acts
Day 18 http://www.relijournal.com/Christianity/The-Acts-of-the-Followers-Chapters-1-7.672465
Day 19 http://relijournal.com/christianity/acts-of-the-followers-chapter-8-14/
Day 20 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-acts-of-the-followers-chapters-15-21/
Day 21 http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-acts-of-the-followers-chapters-22-28/
30 Days Through the Letters and Revelation
Day 1 Romans http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-romans-chapters-1-7/
Day 2 Romans http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-romans-ch-8-16/
Day 3 I Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-1-4/
Day 4 I Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-5-7/
Day 5 I Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-8-11-paul%e2%80%99s-first-letter-to-the-corinthians/
Day 6 I Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/i-corinthians-12-16/
Day 7 II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-1-3/
Day 8 II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-4-7/
Day 9 II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-8-10/
Day 10 II Corinthians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-the-corinthians-ch-11-13/
Day 11 Galatians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-galatians/
Day 12 Ephesians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-ephesians/
Day 13 Philippians http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-the-philippians/
Day 14 Colossians http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-letter-to-the-collossians/
Day 15 I Thessalonians http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-first-letter-to-the-thessalonians/
Day 16 II Thessalonians http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-second-letter-to-the-thesalonians-the-holy-bible/
Day 17 I Timothy http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-first-letter-to-timothy/
Day 18 II Timothy http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-second-letter-to-timothy/
Day 19 Titus http://relijournal.com/christianity/pauls-letter-to-titus/
Day 20 Philemon http://relijournal.com/christianity/paul%e2%80%99s-letter-to-philemon/
Day 21 Hebrews http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-to-the-hebrews/
Day 22 James http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-from-james/
Day 23 I Peter http://relijournal.com/christianity/peter-i/
Day 24 II Peter http://relijournal.com/christianity/peter-ii/
Day 25 I John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-first-letter-from-john/
Day 26 II John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-second-letter-from-john/
III John http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-third-letter-from-john/
Jude http://relijournal.com/christianity/a-letter-from-jude/
Day 27 Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-1-3/
Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-revelation-of-john-chapters-4-7/
Day 28 Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-revelation-of-john-chapters-8-11/
Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapter-12-13/
Day 29 Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-14-15/
Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-16-18/
Day 30 Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-chapters-19-20/
Revelation http://relijournal.com/christianity/the-holy-bible-the-revelation-of-john-21-22/
Exodus Chapters 1-5
The Exodus
Chapters 1-5
The Israelites in Egypt 1[1-6] These are the names of the children of Israel who came to Egypt, each with his family: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Benjamin, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher. So Jacob had 70 descendants in all in Egypt, counting Joseph, who was already there. Later, Joseph, all of his brothers, and that generation all died.
[7-10] But the children of Israel had many descendants, becoming so great that they became very powerful and filled the land. Then a new ruler came to power in Egypt who didn’t know Joseph. And he said to his people, “Look, the people of the children of Israel are more than us and are stronger than we are. Let us deal with them quickly before they grow more. If war breaks out, they may join our enemies and fight against us, and leave the country.” [11-14] So the Egyptians put bosses over them to make them be their workers. They forced them to build for the ruler of Egypt the supply cities of Pithom and Rameses. But the more the Egyptians made them work, the more children the Israelites had, and the Egyptians worried about them becoming too strong. So the Egyptians made the people of Israel work very hard. They made their lives very hard with all the work, making them mix mortar and make bricks and do all kinds of work in the fields. They made them work very hard.
[15-17] Then the ruler of Egypt told the Israelite midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, “When you help the Israelite women and see them having their babies, if it’s a boy, kill him; but if it’s a girl, let her live.” But the midwives loved God, so they didn’t do what he told them to, and let the boys live, too. [18-22] So the ruler of Egypt called the midwives, asking, “Why did you do this and let the boys live?” So they said, “The Israelite women aren’t like the Egyptian women. They’re stronger and have their babies before we get there.” So God was good to the midwives, and the Israelites kept growing more and more powerful. And because the midwives loved God, they were given families of their own. Then the ruler of Egypt told all his people, “Throw every Israelite baby boy into the Nile River, but let the girls live.” The Birth of Moses 2[1-4] Then a man and woman from the family of Levi got married. Later, the woman became pregnant and gave birth to a son. When she saw how beautiful he was, she kept him hidden for three months. But when she couldn’t hide him any more, she got a basket made of reeds and coated it with tar to waterproof it. Then she put the baby in the basket and put it in the reeds on the bank of the Nile River. The baby’s older sister stood a little way off, watching to see what would happen to him. [5-10] Soon the ruler of Egypt’s daughter came down to bathe in the river. Her helpers were walking along the riverbank, and when the princess saw the basket among the reeds, she sent one of them to get it for her. When she opened it, she saw the baby was crying and felt sorry for him, saying, “This is one of the Israelite children.” Then the baby’s sister came to the princess and asked, “Should I go and find one of the Israelite women to nurse the baby for you?” So the princess said, “Yes, go.” So the girl went and called the baby’s mother. So the princess told the baby’s mother, “Take this baby and nurse him for me and I’ll pay you.” So the woman took her baby home and nursed him. Then later, when the boy was weaned, his mother brought him back to the ruler of Egypt’s daughter, who adopted him as her own son. The princess named him Moses, saying, “Because I took him out of the water.” Moses Kills a Man [11-15] When Moses was grown he went out to visit his own people, the Israelites, and he saw how hard they had to work. Then he saw an Egyptian beating one of the Israelites. After looking around and seeing that no one was watching, Moses killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand. The next day, when Moses went out again, he saw two Israelite men fighting with each other. So Moses said to the one who had done the wrong, “Why are you hitting your friend?” Then the man said, “Who made you our ruler and judge? Are you going to kill me as you killed that Egyptian yesterday?” Then Moses was scared and said, “What I did is known for sure.” Then when the ruler of Egypt heard what had happened, he tried to kill Moses. But Moses ran away from him and went to live in the land of Midian. And when Moses arrived in Midian, he sat down beside a well.
[16-20] Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters who came to draw water and fill the water troughs for their father’s flocks. But some shepherds came and tried to chase them away, so Moses stood up and helped the girls and watered their flocks. When the girls went home to Reuel, their father, he asked, “Why are you back so soon today?” And they said, “An Egyptian saved us from the shepherds, and then drew water for us and watered our flocks.” So he asked his daughters, “Where is he? Why did you leave him there? Go tell him to come and eat with us.” [21-25] Then Moses decided to settle there and live with him. Then he gave Moses his daughter Zipporah to be his wife. Later she gave birth to a son, and Moses named him Gershom, saying, “I’ve been a stranger in a foreign land.” As time passed, the ruler of Egypt died. But the Israelites groaned because of their hard work. They cried out for help, and their cry came up to God because of their work. God heard their groaning, and remembered the promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. So God looked down on the people of Israel and paid attention to them. Moses and the Burning Bush 3[1-3] One day Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian, and led the flock far into the desert and came to Sinai, the mountain of God. Then the Angel of Yahweh appeared to him in a flaming fire from the middle of a bush. Moses looked, and the bush was burning with fire, but it wasn’t burnt up. So Moses said, “I’ve got to go see this amazing thing, and see why the bush isn’t burnt up.”
[4-6] When Yahweh saw that Moses came to take a look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, saying, “Moses! Moses!” Then Moses said, “Here I am!” Then Yahweh warned, “Don’t come any closer. Take your sandals off from your feet. You’re standing on holy ground. I Am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Then Moses covered his face because he was afraid to look at God. [7-10] Then Yahweh told him, “I’ve seen the suffering of My people in Egypt. I’ve heard their cries because of those who make them work so hard. I know their sorrows. So I’ve come down to save them from the power of the Egyptians and lead them out of Egypt into a good and large land. It’s a land full of milk and honey, the land where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live. Look! The cry of the people of Israel has come to Me, and I’ve seen how badly the Egyptians abuse them. So come, I’m sending you to the ruler of Egypt so that you may bring My people Israel out of Egypt.” [11-15] But Moses argued with God, asking, “Who am I that I should go to the ruler of Egypt, and that I should bring the people of Israel out of Egypt?” Then God answered, “I’ll be with you, with a doubt. And this will be the sign that I’ve sent you: When you’ve brought the people out of Egypt, you’ll worship God on this very mountain.” But Moses argued, “If I go to the people of Israel and tell them, ‘The God of your ancestors has sent me to you,’ they’ll ask me, ‘What’s God’s name?’ Then what should I tell them?” So God told Moses, “I Am Who I Am. Say this to the people of Israel: I Am has sent me to you.” Then God said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel: Yahweh, God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is My Name forever, and My Name is to be remembered by all generations. [16-18] “Now go and call together all the leaders of Israel and tell them, ‘Yahweh, God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, has appeared to me and told me, “I’ve visited you, without a doubt, and seen what’s been done to you in Egypt. And I’ve said that I’d bring you out of the suffering of Egypt to the land, where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live, to a land full of milk and honey. Then the leaders of Israel will listen to you, and you and the leaders must go to the ruler of Egypt and tell him, ‘Yahweh, God of the Israelites, has met with us. So please let us take a three-day journey into the countryside to offer sacrifices to Yahweh, our God.’ [19-22] “But I know that the ruler of Egypt won’t let you go, no, not even by great strength. So I’ll raise My hand and hit Egypt with all the amazing things I will do. Then, after that, he’ll let you go. And I’ll cause the Egyptians to show kindness toward you. Then when you go, you won’t go empty-handed. Tell every Israelite woman to ask her Egyptian neighbors, namely, the women near their houses, for things of silver and gold and fine clothing. You’ll put them on your sons and daughters, taking the Egyptians riches.” Signs of God’s Power 4[1-5] But Moses argued again, “What if they won’t believe me or listen to me? What if they say, ‘Yahweh hasn’t appeared to you’?” So Yahweh asked him, “What’s that in your hand?” And Moses said, “A walking stick.” Then Yahweh told him, “Throw it down on the ground.” So Moses threw it down, and it turned into a snake and Moses ran from it. Then Yahweh told Moses, “Reach out and take it by the tail.” So Moses reached out and caught it, and it became a walking stick in his hand again. Do this so they’ll believe that Yahweh, the God of their ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, really has appeared to you.” [6-9] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Now put your hand in your coat.” So Moses put his hand in his coat, and when he took it out again, his hand had a severe skin disease and was as white as snow. Then Yahweh said, “Now put your hand back in your coat.” So Moses put his hand back in his coat, and when he took it out again, it was healed just like the rest of his body. Then Yahweh said to Moses, “If they don’t believe you and won’t pay attention to the first sign, they may believe the second sign. And if they don’t believe you or listen to you even after these two signs, then take some water from the Nile River and pour it on the dry land. The water which you take from the river will turn to blood on the dry land.” [10-13] But Moses begged Yahweh, “But God, I’m not very good with words, neither before, nor since You spoke to me. I’m slow with words, and my tongue gets tied.” Then Yahweh asked Moses, “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who makes people not speak, not hear, see or not see? Is it not I, Yahweh? Now go! I’ll be with you when you speak, and I’ll tell you what to say.” But Moses begged again, “But God, please, can’t You send someone else, anyone but me.” [14-17] Then Yahweh became angry with Moses and God said, “Isn’t Aaron, the Levite, your brother? I know he speaks well. He’ll come out to meet you. When he sees you, he’ll be vey happy. Talk to him, and tell him what to say. I’ll be with both of you when you speak, and I’ll tell you what to do. Aaron will speak to the people for you. He’ll speak for you, and you’ll be like God to him. And take your walking stick with you, which you’ll use to do the signs.” Moses Goes back to Egypt [18-20] So Moses went back home to Jethro, his father-in-law and said to him, “Please let me go back to my relatives in Egypt, and see if they’re still alive.” So Jethro said, “Go in peace.” Then Yahweh said to Moses in Midian, “Go back to Egypt, for all those who wanted to kill you are dead.” So Moses took his wife and sons, and put them on a donkey, and went back to the land of Egypt. And Moses took the walking stick of God in his hand. [21-23] And Yahweh told Moses, “When you get to Egypt, make sure to do all the amazing things I’ve given you power to do in front of the ruler of Egypt. But I’ll harden his heart so he won’t let the people go. Then you’ll tell him, ‘Yahweh says: Israel is like My firstborn. So I tell you, “Let My people go, so they can worship Me.” But if you don’t let them go, I’ll kill your child, your firstborn!’” [24-26] On the way to Egypt, at a place where Moses and his family had stopped for the night, Yahweh met him and tried to kill him. But Moses’ wife, Zipporah, took a sharp stone and cut off the foreskin of her son and threw it at Moses feet and said, “Now, you’re a husband with blood on your hands!” So Yahweh let him go. Then Zipporah said, “You’re a husband with blood on your hands!” because she had to cut the foreskin off her son.
[27-31] Now Yahweh said to Aaron, “Go out into the countryside to meet Moses.” So Aaron went and met Moses at the mountain of God, and kissed him. So Moses told Aaron all the words of Yahweh who had sent him, and all the signs Yahweh had told him. Then Moses and Aaron went and called all the leaders of the people of Israel together. And Aaron told them everything Yahweh had told Moses, and Moses did the signs as they watched. So the people of Israel believed and when they heard that Yahweh had visited them and had seen their suffering, they bowed their heads and worshiped. Moses and Aaron Speak to the Ruler of Egypt 5[1-5] After this, Moses and Aaron went and told the ruler of Egypt, “This is what Yahweh, God of Israel, says: ‘Let My people go so they may hold a feast to Me in the countryside.” And the ruler of Egypt said, “And who is Yahweh that I should do this and let Israel go? I don’t know Yahweh, and I won’t let Israel go.” But they said, “The God of the Israelites has met with us, so please let us take a three-day journey into the countryside so we can offer sacrifices to Yahweh our God or we’ll be killed with a disease or murdered.” But the ruler of Egypt said, “Moses and Aaron, why are you taking the people from their work? Get back to your work! Look, there are many people in the land now, and you’re making them rest from their work.” Making Bricks Without Straw [6-9] That same day the ruler of Egypt told the Egyptian bosses and the Israelite bosses: “Don’t give them any more straw for making bricks. Let them go and get it for themselves! But make them bring the same number of bricks as before. Don’t take anything less. They’re lazy, so they cry out, saying, ‘Let us go and offer sacrifices to our God.’ Give them more work and make them work harder so they won’t listen to these lies!” [10-14] So the Egyptian bosses and the Israelite bosses went out and told the people: “This is what the ruler of Egypt says: I won’t give you any more straw. Go and get the straw wherever you can find it, but you must make as many bricks as before!” So the people went all over the land of Egypt in search of stubble for straw. And the bosses made them hurry, saying, “Get your work done, just as you did when there was straw!” Then the Israelite bosses that they had put in charge of the workers, were beaten and were asked, “Why haven’t you gotten your work done either yesterday or today?” [15-18] So the Israelite bosses went to the ruler of Egypt and begged him, saying, “Why are you doing this to us? We’re given no straw, but the bosses still tell us, ‘Make bricks!’ We’re being beaten, but it’s your own people’s fault!” But the ruler of Egypt shouted, “You people are lazy! Lazy! So you say, ‘Let us go and offer sacrifices to Yahweh.’ Now go to work! No straw will be given to you, but you must still make the full number of bricks.” [19-23] The Israelite bosses saw that they were in trouble when they were told, “You must still make the full number of bricks each day.” Then as they left the ruler of Egypt, they met Moses and Aaron, who were waiting for them. They said to them, “May Yahweh judge you for making the ruler of Egypt and our Egyptian bosses hate us. You’ve given them a reason to kill us!” Then Moses went back to Yahweh and argued, “God, why have You brought all this trouble on Your people? Why did You send me? Ever since I came to the ruler of Egypt to speak in Your Name, he’s been worse to Your people, and You haven’t saved Your people at all!”
Chapters 1-5
The Israelites in Egypt 1[1-6] These are the names of the children of Israel who came to Egypt, each with his family: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Benjamin, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher. So Jacob had 70 descendants in all in Egypt, counting Joseph, who was already there. Later, Joseph, all of his brothers, and that generation all died.
[7-10] But the children of Israel had many descendants, becoming so great that they became very powerful and filled the land. Then a new ruler came to power in Egypt who didn’t know Joseph. And he said to his people, “Look, the people of the children of Israel are more than us and are stronger than we are. Let us deal with them quickly before they grow more. If war breaks out, they may join our enemies and fight against us, and leave the country.” [11-14] So the Egyptians put bosses over them to make them be their workers. They forced them to build for the ruler of Egypt the supply cities of Pithom and Rameses. But the more the Egyptians made them work, the more children the Israelites had, and the Egyptians worried about them becoming too strong. So the Egyptians made the people of Israel work very hard. They made their lives very hard with all the work, making them mix mortar and make bricks and do all kinds of work in the fields. They made them work very hard.
[15-17] Then the ruler of Egypt told the Israelite midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, “When you help the Israelite women and see them having their babies, if it’s a boy, kill him; but if it’s a girl, let her live.” But the midwives loved God, so they didn’t do what he told them to, and let the boys live, too. [18-22] So the ruler of Egypt called the midwives, asking, “Why did you do this and let the boys live?” So they said, “The Israelite women aren’t like the Egyptian women. They’re stronger and have their babies before we get there.” So God was good to the midwives, and the Israelites kept growing more and more powerful. And because the midwives loved God, they were given families of their own. Then the ruler of Egypt told all his people, “Throw every Israelite baby boy into the Nile River, but let the girls live.” The Birth of Moses 2[1-4] Then a man and woman from the family of Levi got married. Later, the woman became pregnant and gave birth to a son. When she saw how beautiful he was, she kept him hidden for three months. But when she couldn’t hide him any more, she got a basket made of reeds and coated it with tar to waterproof it. Then she put the baby in the basket and put it in the reeds on the bank of the Nile River. The baby’s older sister stood a little way off, watching to see what would happen to him. [5-10] Soon the ruler of Egypt’s daughter came down to bathe in the river. Her helpers were walking along the riverbank, and when the princess saw the basket among the reeds, she sent one of them to get it for her. When she opened it, she saw the baby was crying and felt sorry for him, saying, “This is one of the Israelite children.” Then the baby’s sister came to the princess and asked, “Should I go and find one of the Israelite women to nurse the baby for you?” So the princess said, “Yes, go.” So the girl went and called the baby’s mother. So the princess told the baby’s mother, “Take this baby and nurse him for me and I’ll pay you.” So the woman took her baby home and nursed him. Then later, when the boy was weaned, his mother brought him back to the ruler of Egypt’s daughter, who adopted him as her own son. The princess named him Moses, saying, “Because I took him out of the water.” Moses Kills a Man [11-15] When Moses was grown he went out to visit his own people, the Israelites, and he saw how hard they had to work. Then he saw an Egyptian beating one of the Israelites. After looking around and seeing that no one was watching, Moses killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand. The next day, when Moses went out again, he saw two Israelite men fighting with each other. So Moses said to the one who had done the wrong, “Why are you hitting your friend?” Then the man said, “Who made you our ruler and judge? Are you going to kill me as you killed that Egyptian yesterday?” Then Moses was scared and said, “What I did is known for sure.” Then when the ruler of Egypt heard what had happened, he tried to kill Moses. But Moses ran away from him and went to live in the land of Midian. And when Moses arrived in Midian, he sat down beside a well.
[16-20] Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters who came to draw water and fill the water troughs for their father’s flocks. But some shepherds came and tried to chase them away, so Moses stood up and helped the girls and watered their flocks. When the girls went home to Reuel, their father, he asked, “Why are you back so soon today?” And they said, “An Egyptian saved us from the shepherds, and then drew water for us and watered our flocks.” So he asked his daughters, “Where is he? Why did you leave him there? Go tell him to come and eat with us.” [21-25] Then Moses decided to settle there and live with him. Then he gave Moses his daughter Zipporah to be his wife. Later she gave birth to a son, and Moses named him Gershom, saying, “I’ve been a stranger in a foreign land.” As time passed, the ruler of Egypt died. But the Israelites groaned because of their hard work. They cried out for help, and their cry came up to God because of their work. God heard their groaning, and remembered the promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. So God looked down on the people of Israel and paid attention to them. Moses and the Burning Bush 3[1-3] One day Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian, and led the flock far into the desert and came to Sinai, the mountain of God. Then the Angel of Yahweh appeared to him in a flaming fire from the middle of a bush. Moses looked, and the bush was burning with fire, but it wasn’t burnt up. So Moses said, “I’ve got to go see this amazing thing, and see why the bush isn’t burnt up.”
[4-6] When Yahweh saw that Moses came to take a look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, saying, “Moses! Moses!” Then Moses said, “Here I am!” Then Yahweh warned, “Don’t come any closer. Take your sandals off from your feet. You’re standing on holy ground. I Am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Then Moses covered his face because he was afraid to look at God. [7-10] Then Yahweh told him, “I’ve seen the suffering of My people in Egypt. I’ve heard their cries because of those who make them work so hard. I know their sorrows. So I’ve come down to save them from the power of the Egyptians and lead them out of Egypt into a good and large land. It’s a land full of milk and honey, the land where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live. Look! The cry of the people of Israel has come to Me, and I’ve seen how badly the Egyptians abuse them. So come, I’m sending you to the ruler of Egypt so that you may bring My people Israel out of Egypt.” [11-15] But Moses argued with God, asking, “Who am I that I should go to the ruler of Egypt, and that I should bring the people of Israel out of Egypt?” Then God answered, “I’ll be with you, with a doubt. And this will be the sign that I’ve sent you: When you’ve brought the people out of Egypt, you’ll worship God on this very mountain.” But Moses argued, “If I go to the people of Israel and tell them, ‘The God of your ancestors has sent me to you,’ they’ll ask me, ‘What’s God’s name?’ Then what should I tell them?” So God told Moses, “I Am Who I Am. Say this to the people of Israel: I Am has sent me to you.” Then God said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel: Yahweh, God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is My Name forever, and My Name is to be remembered by all generations. [16-18] “Now go and call together all the leaders of Israel and tell them, ‘Yahweh, God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, has appeared to me and told me, “I’ve visited you, without a doubt, and seen what’s been done to you in Egypt. And I’ve said that I’d bring you out of the suffering of Egypt to the land, where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live, to a land full of milk and honey. Then the leaders of Israel will listen to you, and you and the leaders must go to the ruler of Egypt and tell him, ‘Yahweh, God of the Israelites, has met with us. So please let us take a three-day journey into the countryside to offer sacrifices to Yahweh, our God.’ [19-22] “But I know that the ruler of Egypt won’t let you go, no, not even by great strength. So I’ll raise My hand and hit Egypt with all the amazing things I will do. Then, after that, he’ll let you go. And I’ll cause the Egyptians to show kindness toward you. Then when you go, you won’t go empty-handed. Tell every Israelite woman to ask her Egyptian neighbors, namely, the women near their houses, for things of silver and gold and fine clothing. You’ll put them on your sons and daughters, taking the Egyptians riches.” Signs of God’s Power 4[1-5] But Moses argued again, “What if they won’t believe me or listen to me? What if they say, ‘Yahweh hasn’t appeared to you’?” So Yahweh asked him, “What’s that in your hand?” And Moses said, “A walking stick.” Then Yahweh told him, “Throw it down on the ground.” So Moses threw it down, and it turned into a snake and Moses ran from it. Then Yahweh told Moses, “Reach out and take it by the tail.” So Moses reached out and caught it, and it became a walking stick in his hand again. Do this so they’ll believe that Yahweh, the God of their ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, really has appeared to you.” [6-9] Then Yahweh said to Moses, “Now put your hand in your coat.” So Moses put his hand in his coat, and when he took it out again, his hand had a severe skin disease and was as white as snow. Then Yahweh said, “Now put your hand back in your coat.” So Moses put his hand back in his coat, and when he took it out again, it was healed just like the rest of his body. Then Yahweh said to Moses, “If they don’t believe you and won’t pay attention to the first sign, they may believe the second sign. And if they don’t believe you or listen to you even after these two signs, then take some water from the Nile River and pour it on the dry land. The water which you take from the river will turn to blood on the dry land.” [10-13] But Moses begged Yahweh, “But God, I’m not very good with words, neither before, nor since You spoke to me. I’m slow with words, and my tongue gets tied.” Then Yahweh asked Moses, “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who makes people not speak, not hear, see or not see? Is it not I, Yahweh? Now go! I’ll be with you when you speak, and I’ll tell you what to say.” But Moses begged again, “But God, please, can’t You send someone else, anyone but me.” [14-17] Then Yahweh became angry with Moses and God said, “Isn’t Aaron, the Levite, your brother? I know he speaks well. He’ll come out to meet you. When he sees you, he’ll be vey happy. Talk to him, and tell him what to say. I’ll be with both of you when you speak, and I’ll tell you what to do. Aaron will speak to the people for you. He’ll speak for you, and you’ll be like God to him. And take your walking stick with you, which you’ll use to do the signs.” Moses Goes back to Egypt [18-20] So Moses went back home to Jethro, his father-in-law and said to him, “Please let me go back to my relatives in Egypt, and see if they’re still alive.” So Jethro said, “Go in peace.” Then Yahweh said to Moses in Midian, “Go back to Egypt, for all those who wanted to kill you are dead.” So Moses took his wife and sons, and put them on a donkey, and went back to the land of Egypt. And Moses took the walking stick of God in his hand. [21-23] And Yahweh told Moses, “When you get to Egypt, make sure to do all the amazing things I’ve given you power to do in front of the ruler of Egypt. But I’ll harden his heart so he won’t let the people go. Then you’ll tell him, ‘Yahweh says: Israel is like My firstborn. So I tell you, “Let My people go, so they can worship Me.” But if you don’t let them go, I’ll kill your child, your firstborn!’” [24-26] On the way to Egypt, at a place where Moses and his family had stopped for the night, Yahweh met him and tried to kill him. But Moses’ wife, Zipporah, took a sharp stone and cut off the foreskin of her son and threw it at Moses feet and said, “Now, you’re a husband with blood on your hands!” So Yahweh let him go. Then Zipporah said, “You’re a husband with blood on your hands!” because she had to cut the foreskin off her son.
[27-31] Now Yahweh said to Aaron, “Go out into the countryside to meet Moses.” So Aaron went and met Moses at the mountain of God, and kissed him. So Moses told Aaron all the words of Yahweh who had sent him, and all the signs Yahweh had told him. Then Moses and Aaron went and called all the leaders of the people of Israel together. And Aaron told them everything Yahweh had told Moses, and Moses did the signs as they watched. So the people of Israel believed and when they heard that Yahweh had visited them and had seen their suffering, they bowed their heads and worshiped. Moses and Aaron Speak to the Ruler of Egypt 5[1-5] After this, Moses and Aaron went and told the ruler of Egypt, “This is what Yahweh, God of Israel, says: ‘Let My people go so they may hold a feast to Me in the countryside.” And the ruler of Egypt said, “And who is Yahweh that I should do this and let Israel go? I don’t know Yahweh, and I won’t let Israel go.” But they said, “The God of the Israelites has met with us, so please let us take a three-day journey into the countryside so we can offer sacrifices to Yahweh our God or we’ll be killed with a disease or murdered.” But the ruler of Egypt said, “Moses and Aaron, why are you taking the people from their work? Get back to your work! Look, there are many people in the land now, and you’re making them rest from their work.” Making Bricks Without Straw [6-9] That same day the ruler of Egypt told the Egyptian bosses and the Israelite bosses: “Don’t give them any more straw for making bricks. Let them go and get it for themselves! But make them bring the same number of bricks as before. Don’t take anything less. They’re lazy, so they cry out, saying, ‘Let us go and offer sacrifices to our God.’ Give them more work and make them work harder so they won’t listen to these lies!” [10-14] So the Egyptian bosses and the Israelite bosses went out and told the people: “This is what the ruler of Egypt says: I won’t give you any more straw. Go and get the straw wherever you can find it, but you must make as many bricks as before!” So the people went all over the land of Egypt in search of stubble for straw. And the bosses made them hurry, saying, “Get your work done, just as you did when there was straw!” Then the Israelite bosses that they had put in charge of the workers, were beaten and were asked, “Why haven’t you gotten your work done either yesterday or today?” [15-18] So the Israelite bosses went to the ruler of Egypt and begged him, saying, “Why are you doing this to us? We’re given no straw, but the bosses still tell us, ‘Make bricks!’ We’re being beaten, but it’s your own people’s fault!” But the ruler of Egypt shouted, “You people are lazy! Lazy! So you say, ‘Let us go and offer sacrifices to Yahweh.’ Now go to work! No straw will be given to you, but you must still make the full number of bricks.” [19-23] The Israelite bosses saw that they were in trouble when they were told, “You must still make the full number of bricks each day.” Then as they left the ruler of Egypt, they met Moses and Aaron, who were waiting for them. They said to them, “May Yahweh judge you for making the ruler of Egypt and our Egyptian bosses hate us. You’ve given them a reason to kill us!” Then Moses went back to Yahweh and argued, “God, why have You brought all this trouble on Your people? Why did You send me? Ever since I came to the ruler of Egypt to speak in Your Name, he’s been worse to Your people, and You haven’t saved Your people at all!”
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