Catholic Answers Live #12585 Did the Exodus Really Happen? Gospels and the Rosary - Jimmy Akin
Feb 12, 2026
Jimmy Akin, senior apologist and author, explores whether the Exodus was historical or symbolic. He discusses evidence like the Merneptah Stele and the criterion of embarrassment. He also examines Matthew 24:36 and the Olivet Discourse, explains how the Rosary and Dominicans opposed the Cathars, and why the four Gospels tell similar stories with different details.
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Evidence Supporting A Historical Exodus
- Jimmy Akin argues the Exodus really happened based on archaeological and textual indicators like the Merneptah Stele.
- He also cites the criterion of embarrassment: Israel's slavery in Egypt is unlikely to be invented and supports historicity.
Merneptah Stele Suggests Nomadic Israel
- The Merneptah Stele refers to Israel with a nomad determinative, suggesting a non-settled people post-Exodus in the late 13th century BC.
- That detail aligns with the biblical picture of Israelites wandering after leaving Egypt.
Criterion Of Embarrassment Strengthens Claims
- The criterion of embarrassment increases confidence in biblical claims when texts admit shameful origins like slavery.
- Jimmy uses this methodological point to argue against purely symbolic readings of Exodus.
