Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Exodus 5:1-23

Roman Catholic Lens Reading of Exodus 5:1-23

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

In Exodus 5:1-23, we read this as a profound illustration of God's salvific action through historical events. Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh with the divine command to let Israel go, highlighting the tension between human authority and divine will. This passage underscores the sacramental nature of God's liberation, prefiguring the Paschal Mystery where Christ, the new Moses, liberates us from the bondage of sin. We see God's providence at work, which calls us to trust in His plan even amidst apparent setbacks, as emphasized by the ongoing revelation through Sacred Tradition.

Key Language Decisions

The Hebrew term 'YHWH' emphasizes the covenantal name of God, which Moses uses to assert divine authority over Pharaoh. The phrase 'Let my people go' carries the imperative of divine liberation, reflecting God's salvific will. The semantic range of 'serve' in Hebrew, 'avad', can mean both 'to serve' and 'to worship', indicating that Israel's liberation is for the purpose of worship, a theme central to our understanding of the Mass as the ultimate act of worship and liberation.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike some Protestant readings that might emphasize a more individualistic interpretation, we emphasize the communal and covenantal aspects, seeing the deliverance of Israel as prefiguring the Church's journey to holiness. Orthodox traditions might focus on the typology of Moses more extensively, whereas we integrate this typology into our broader sacramental theology. The theological significance of liberation is not just historical but sacramental, pointing to the Eucharist as the source and summit of our faith.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we should emphasize God's unwavering commitment to our salvation, even when circumstances seem dire. Encourage the faithful to see their struggles in light of God's greater plan, trusting that He leads us toward the ultimate liberation in Christ. Highlight the importance of worship as the reason for our liberation, drawing the community toward a deeper appreciation of the Eucharist, where Christ's liberating sacrifice is made present. Remind the congregation that like Israel, the Church is on a pilgrimage toward the Promised Land, sustained by the grace of the sacraments.

Cross-References: Exodus 3:14-15 (God's self-revelation as 'I AM'), Exodus 12:1-14 (the Passover as a sacramental prefiguration), Hebrews 11:24-27 (faith of Moses), Luke 9:31 (Jesus' exodus in Jerusalem), Revelation 15:3 (song of Moses and the Lamb)

Doctrinal Connections: Divine Providence; The Paschal Mystery; Sacrament of the Eucharist; Covenant Theology; Christ as the New Moses