In the fifth aliyah G-d gives Moshe specific instructions about gathering the elders of the Jews and going to Pharaoh and saying: "Let my people go." G-d says that Pharaoh will not allow them to leave until the Egyptians are smitten with a strong hand and with wonders. After that they will leave with the riches of Egypt.

Moshe protests his appointment and says the Jews will not believe him and that he does not speak well. G-d gives Moshe miraculous signs with which to prove himself. Rashi says that this discussion lasted seven days. Rashi also says that all of Moshe's hesitation was because of his respect for his brother Aharon. Moshe believed Aharon more deserved the honor of this mission than Moshe, since Aharon was older.