The fateful message of redemption finally moves from a private prophetic encounter to a public declaration before the enslaved nation. As the leaders gather, the roles are carefully divided to ensure the Israelites accept the mission. Aaron addresses the elders and a large public assembly [קאסוטו] rather than Moses, who had received the direct prophecy. This division of leadership serves a practical purpose. Aaron was already a familiar figure to the people and a highly capable speaker [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Furthermore, this arrangement protects the honor and reverence due to Moses as the nation's leader. If the Israelites were to hear Moses's heavy speech, they might disrespect the man sent to redeem them. Therefore, Moses assumes the quiet role of the supreme authority, while Aaron acts as his spokesman and translator, establishing a dynamic that would continue throughout their years of leadership [אבן עזרא, שפתי כהן].
Aaron delivers the complete message, sharing not only the core divine commands but also the detailed explanations and clarifications that accompany them. This comprehensive delivery mirrors the relationship between a written law and its oral explanation [העמק דבר]. Once the message is spoken, the time comes for practical proof. The people are shown the three specific miracles God previously revealed at the burning bush: a staff transforming into a snake, a hand suddenly struck with leprosy, and water drawn from the river turning to blood the moment it hits dry land [אבן עזרא הקצר, חזקוני, קאסוטו]. Commentators differ on exactly who carried out these acts. Some maintain that Aaron performed the miracles before the people under Moses's direction [מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Others argue that Moses performed them himself, exactly as God originally commanded him, while Aaron stood by his side [העמק דבר, קאסוטו].
The specific nature of these miracles carries deep meaning. They function as signs rather than wonders. A sign is a marvel designed to verify a prophet's truthfulness for an audience that already believes in God but needs confirmation of the messenger's identity. In contrast, a wonder is intended for those who completely deny Divine providence, such as Pharaoh. Wonders are meant to prove God's ultimate power and control over nature, surpassing any local magic. Because the Israelites already held a deep belief in God, they did not require wonders that shatter the laws of nature; simple signs were entirely sufficient to convince them that a true messenger had finally arrived [פרדס יוסף].