The Duration of the Egyptian Exile

Related Topics

• Did Hashem change his mind regarding the original time frame for the slavery?
  • No – Seder Olam et al, R. Saadia et al, Shadal, Hoil Moshe.
  • Yes:
    • He hastened the redemption – Mekhilta DeRabbi Yishmael, Pesikta DeRav Kahana, Tanchuma, Pirkei DeRabbi Eliezer, Ralbag.
    • He postponed the redemption – Ramban, Abarbanel.
• Children of Israel's behavior in Egypt
  • Good – See Religious Identity in Egypt.
  • Bad – Ramban, Abarbanel.
• Duration of actual slavery
  • 300+ years – possibly Shadal.
  • 147 – Jubilees.
  • 86-116 – Seder Olam Rabbah.
  • 86 – Shir HaShirim Rabbah, Rashi.
  • 80 – R. Saadia.
• Israelite population growth
  • Supernaturally high – Ramban, most commentators.
  • High, but more natural rate – Shadal.
• Egyptian chronology