The Israelites became slaves in Egypt during the reign of a Pharaoh who felt threatened by their growing population. While the exact timeline is debated, it is generally believed that this enslavement occurred several centuries after Joseph’s rise to power in Egypt, which is often placed around the 18th century BCE. The biblical narrative, specifically in the book of Exodus, indicates that over time, as the Israelites multiplied, the new Pharaoh, who did not know Joseph, subjected them to forced labor. This shift from favored guests to oppressed slaves happened as the Egyptians sought to control the Israelite population, fearing they might join Egypt’s enemies in case of war. Thus, the Israelites’ transition into slavery marks a significant moment in their history, leading to their eventual liberation under Moses.
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