Book of Exodus - Chapter 5 - Verse 3

In this verse from the Bible, the Israelites are speaking to Pharaoh, requesting permission to journey into the desert to sacrifice to the LORD their God. The Israelites were asking for a three-day journey into the wilderness to worship their deity, as was common in ancient religious practices. They feared that if they did not obey God's command to sacrifice to Him in the wilderness, they would face severe consequences such as pestilence or sword from the LORD. This verse illustrates the importance of obedience to God's commands and the belief that failing to do so could lead to punishment from Him. It also demonstrates the Israelites' reverence and fear of their God, as well as their desire to worship Him properly.

The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the reverence and fear that the Israelites had for the power and judgment of the God of the Hebrews. The request to go on a three days' journey into the desert to sacrifice unto the Lord indicates a willingness to worship and submit to their God's commands. The mention of the potential consequences of not obeying the Lord's command – falling upon them with pestilence or with the sword – underscores the seriousness of their relationship with God and the importance of obedience to avoid His wrath.

Word studies in this verse could focus on the Hebrew word for "met with," which can imply a divine encounter or appearance, highlighting the significance of God's presence among His people. The term "desert" may also be explored to understand the symbolism of this place as a location of testing, purification, and reliance on God. Additionally, the mention of sacrificing unto the Lord our God points to the sacrificial system in ancient Hebrew worship, emphasizing the concept of atonement and obedience as essential aspects of their relationship with God.