Old Testament
Exodus 6:5
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Now I have heard the groaning of the Israelites, whom the Egyptians have enslaved, and I have remembered my covenant.
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And I have also heard the groaning of the children of Israel, whom the Egyptians keep in bondage; and I have remembered my covenant.
What Exodus 6:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God expresses His awareness of the suffering of the Israelites who are enslaved in Egypt. Their cries and pain have reached Him, and He is not indifferent to their plight. God reassures them that He has not forgotten the promise He made to their ancestors. This covenant signifies His commitment to deliver them from oppression and restore their freedom. The mention of groaning highlights the deep anguish and desperation felt by the Israelites. God’s response is a reminder that He sees and hears those who are suffering. It emphasizes His faithfulness and the importance of His promises. This moment is pivotal, as it sets the stage for their eventual liberation. God’s remembrance of His covenant is a powerful assurance that He is actively involved in their lives, even in their darkest moments. It shows that hope is alive, and change is coming, as God prepares to act on their behalf. This verse invites us to trust in God’s promises, especially when we feel trapped or forgotten.
How to apply Exodus 6:5 to your life
When facing difficult times, remember that you are not alone. Just as God heard the cries of the Israelites, He hears your struggles. Trust in His promises and know that change is possible. Keep faith alive, even in the darkest moments, as help may be on the way. Your pain matters to Him, and He is listening to you.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: God Renews His Promise (Exodus 6:1–13)
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Moses

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Exodus 6:5
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 6:5 mean for those suffering today?
Exodus 6:5 reassures us that God is aware of our suffering and hears our cries, just as He did for the Israelites. This verse serves as a reminder that we are not forgotten in our struggles. It encourages us to trust in God's promises and His commitment to deliverance, even when we feel overwhelmed by our circumstances.
How does God's covenant relate to our lives now?
God's covenant in Exodus 6:5 signifies His unwavering commitment to His people. For us today, it represents the assurance that God is faithful to His promises. This covenant encourages believers to hold onto hope and trust that God will act on our behalf, especially during challenging times.
What can we learn about God's character from Exodus 6:5?
Exodus 6:5 reveals God's compassionate nature and His attentiveness to human suffering. It shows that He is not indifferent to our pain and actively remembers His promises. This verse highlights God's faithfulness and His desire to intervene in our lives, reminding us that He is a God who cares deeply for His people.
How can I apply the message of Exodus 6:5 in my life?
To apply the message of Exodus 6:5, focus on trusting God during difficult times. Acknowledge your struggles and bring them to Him in prayer, knowing He hears you. Keep faith in His promises alive, and look for signs of hope and change. This verse encourages you to remain steadfast, believing that God is working for your deliverance.
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