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Exodus 5:5
ESV And Pharaoh said, "Behold, the people of the land are now many, and you make them rest from their burdens!"
NIV Then Pharaoh said, "Look, the people of the land are now numerous, and you are stopping them from working."
NASB Again Pharaoh said, 'Look, the people of the land are now many, and you would have them cease from their labors!'
CSB Pharaoh also said, "Look, the people of the land are so numerous, and you would stop them from their labor."
NLT Look, there are many of your people in the land, and you are stopping them from their work.'
KJV And Pharaoh said, Behold, the people of the land now are many, and ye make them rest from their burdens.
NKJV And Pharaoh said, “Look, the people of the land are many now, and you make them rest from their labor!”

What does Exodus 5:5 mean?

The Lord's command to release Israel has been delivered to Egypt's ruler, Pharaoh, for a second time (Exodus 5:1, 3). He responded with scorn (Exodus 5:2, 4). Here, Pharaoh repeats one of the fears which turned Egypt against the Israelites in the first place (Exodus 1:8–10). This may be something the king said to himself; his last comment expresses the same idea and was dismissive. He may even be referring to himself, meaning he is allowing the people too much free time.

Despite slavery and efforts to control the population (Exodus 1:16, 22), Israel continued to thrive. Egypt saw this as a threat. If the Hebrews sided with an enemy, they could tip the balance of a battle. If they chose to rebel, it would be disruptive and difficult to put down. Now, however, the size of the Israelite population is an incentive for Pharaoh to keep them in slavery. Even giving them a break would hamper efforts to build. Ultimately, Pharaoh controls a large slave workforce—one which he thinks needs to be retained and made to know their place. This inspires a spiteful decree which serves no purpose other than making the people suffer (Exodus 5:7–8).

The cruel slavery of Egypt is one reason the Old Testament so often refers to what God offers His people as "rest" (Exodus 16:23; 23:12; 33:14; Deuteronomy 12:9; Joshua 1:15).
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