Old Testament
Exodus 6:12
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, Moses is expressing his frustration to God.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
But Moses spoke to the LORD, saying, "Look, the children of Israel have not listened to me; how then will Pharaoh listen to me, since I have uncircumcised lips?"
And Moses spake before the LORD, saying, Behold, the children of Israel have not hearkened unto me; how then shall Pharaoh hear me, who am of uncircumcised lips?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Moses is expressing his frustration to God. He feels that the Israelites, his own people, have not listened to him, which makes him doubt his ability to persuade Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. Moses refers to his 'uncircumcised lips,' a metaphor for his lack of eloquence or confidence in speaking. He is essentially saying that if his own people won't listen, how can he expect a powerful ruler like Pharaoh to take him seriously? This highlights Moses' feelings of inadequacy and the challenge he faces in fulfilling his mission. It’s a relatable moment where we see someone struggling with self-doubt and the pressure of leadership. Moses is caught between his calling and his fears, showing that even great leaders can feel overwhelmed. This passage reminds us that feeling unqualified is a common human experience, especially when facing daunting tasks or responsibilities. It encourages us to seek strength and support from a higher power when we feel inadequate.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Exodus 6:12 to your life
When you feel unqualified or unheard, remember that even great leaders like Moses faced similar challenges. It's okay to express your feelings of inadequacy. Seek support from others and trust that your voice matters, even when it feels like it doesn't. Keep pushing forward despite your fears and doubts. You are not alone in your struggles, and your journey is important to others too. “Be brave and keep speaking your truth.”
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 6:12 mean?
Exodus 6:12 shows Moses expressing his frustration to God about the Israelites not listening to him. He doubts his ability to persuade Pharaoh, feeling inadequate due to his lack of eloquence, which he describes as having 'uncircumcised lips.' This reflects his struggle with self-doubt and the challenges of leadership.
What is the meaning of 'uncircumcised lips' in Exodus 6:12?
In Exodus 6:12, 'uncircumcised lips' is a metaphor used by Moses to indicate his lack of eloquence or confidence in speaking. It suggests that he feels unqualified to communicate effectively, especially to someone as powerful as Pharaoh.
How does Exodus 6:12 relate to feelings of inadequacy?
Exodus 6:12 illustrates that even strong leaders like Moses can feel inadequate and unheard. It serves as a reminder that such feelings are common and that seeking support and expressing one's struggles is important.
What can we learn from Moses in Exodus 6:12?
From Moses in Exodus 6:12, we learn that it's okay to express feelings of inadequacy and doubt. It encourages us to keep pushing forward despite our fears and to seek strength from others when facing challenges.
The Book of Exodus
Exodus 1: Israel's Oppression in Egypt
The sons of Israel settle in Egypt, and their families grow rapidly until the land is filled with them. A new Pharaoh arises who does not know Joseph and fears that the Israelites will join Egypt's enemies if war comes, so he places them under harsh labor and forces them to build the store cities Pithom and Raamses. The more they are oppressed, the more they multiply, which increases Egyptian fear. Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every male child at birth, but they fear God and let the boys live. When Pharaoh confronts them, they say the Hebrew women deliver before the midwives arrive, and God blesses the midwives with households. Pharaoh then commands all his people to cast every Hebrew son into the river while allowing the daughters to live.
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