Detestable Practices

Q: What exactly about the Hebrews and their sacrifices is “detestable” to the Egyptians?

A: Your question is one that puzzles scholars and commentators. It would seem more logical that the Hebrews would find making sacrifices in Egypt detestable – but Moses gives the impression that the Egyptians would find the Israelite’s sacrifices detestable:

1. The general disdain the Egyptians had for all things related to the Hebrews (see Gen 46:34)
2. The Israelites sacrificed cattle, which were considered sacred by the Egyptians
3. The Greek historian Herodotus emphasizes the strict purity laws of the Egyptians – which might provide context for Moses’ concern that the Israelites would be offensive in their sacrifice, resulting in further (and more extreme) persecution

Since the text is silent about the exact meaning of Moses’ concern, I’d be very hesitant to try to give a definitive answer to your question.