Definition: 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?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 6:12. It’s a really important and dramatic moment in the story of the Israelites’ escape from Egypt. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Israel was in a terrible situation: The Israelites were enslaved by Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt. They were being treated unfairly and weren't allowed to go anywhere freely. Moses was leading them: Moses was a powerful leader who was trying to free the Israelites from this oppression. They weren’t listening to him: The Israelites had completely ignored Moses’ instructions and warnings about the importance of not circumcising (cutting) their skin – a requirement for entering Egypt. What the Verse Says: “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?” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Moses spake…” - This means Moses is speaking. “…saying, Behold…” – This emphasizes that this isn't just a casual conversation; it's a serious moment of realization. “…the children of Israel have not hearkened unto me…” – The Israelites didn’t listen to Moses. They were ignoring his commands and warnings. “How then shall Pharaoh hear me, who [am] of uncircumcised lips?” - This is the core of the problem. Pharaoh was a powerful leader and didn't care about the laws of the Israelites. He could ignore any rules as long as he pleased himself. The word “uncircumcised” means they weren’t born Jewish, which is key to understanding why Pharaoh wasn't listening. What it Means – A Bigger Picture: This verse sets up a crucial point in the story: God’s covenant with Israel is being broken. Pharaoh’s refusal to listen to Moses and the Israelites highlights a fundamental conflict between God and humanity. It’s a moment where God’s plan for a special relationship with His people was threatened. In short, this verse shows that disobedience – specifically refusing to follow God's instructions – is a major problem that needs to be addressed. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss the significance of this verse in the context of the entire Exodus narrative?