The Date. The exact period at which the Hebrews became slaves
In Egypt cannot be determined with any degree of accuracy; however, we
Know that it was after the death of Joseph (Exodus 1:5-14).
Subtracting this from the entire time of the "sojourn" (Exodus 12:40,41; Galatians 3:17), we have the result one hundred forty-four years. (430-286 = 144).
It is probable that these figures represented more than the actual time of their servitude.
Its Bitterness. Their servitude was unparalleled for bitterness
And exaction (Exodus 1:9-14). In addition to hard and unrequited labor, the heartless ruler published an edict that all of the male children
Should be destroyed at birth, and inaugurated vigorous methods to carry
It out (Exodus 1:15-22).
Copyright Statement
These files are public domain and are a derivative of an electronic edition that is available from Online-Bible.
Bibliography Information Johnson, Ashley S. "Entry for 'The Enslavement'". "Condensed Biblical Cyclopedia". <http://devel.searchgodsword.org/enc/cbc/view.cgi?number=T26>. 1896.