Why Do People Need Signs?

The opening chapters of Exodus focus on Moses, a man called to lead a group of enslaved people out of Egypt. It’s a monumental task, and Moses’ initial reaction is hesitation. He questions his ability to carry out the mission, asking how he can convince others to follow him. This hesitation leads to a pivotal exchange: Moses requests proof—signs—to show that the promises given to him are credible. This interaction made me think: why do people feel the need for signs to believe or act?

The Human Tendency to Seek Assurance

Moses’ request reflects a broader human tendency to rely on what can be seen or experienced directly. Despite witnessing the burning bush—a moment that could easily be described as extraordinary—Moses hesitates. He asks for additional assurances. In response, God provides a series of physical demonstrations: a staff transforming into a serpent, a hand becoming leprous and then restored, and water turning into blood. These signs serve as tangible evidence, bridging the gap between what Moses is being told and his doubts about it.

The Tension Between Belief and Proof

This dynamic highlights the tension between belief and proof. Why is it so difficult to act on trust alone? Perhaps it’s because people often seek certainty in situations that feel uncertain or overwhelming. For Moses, the signs were not just about proving something to the Israelites or Pharaoh; they also addressed his own insecurities. The task ahead of him was daunting, and having visible, undeniable markers of authority seemed necessary to proceed.

The Persistent Need for Signs Today

Even today, the need for signs persists. Whether in personal decisions, relationships, or matters of broader significance, people often look for external validation to guide their actions. This reliance on proof could stem from a fear of making mistakes or the desire for clarity in complex situations. Signs can provide a sense of direction, but they’re rarely enough to resolve all doubts. In the Exodus story, even after witnessing multiple signs, Pharaoh remained resistant. This suggests that evidence alone does not always lead to change; belief or action often requires a willingness to trust beyond what is immediately verifiable.

Reflecting on the Role of Signs

For Moses, the signs pointed to the possibility of moving forward despite uncertainty. They didn’t remove all his doubts, but they gave him a starting point. In considering this story, it’s worth asking: when we seek signs, what are we really looking for? Reassurance? Control? Or simply a way to make sense of what feels unclear?