1 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Go in to Pharaoh, for I have hardened his heart and the heart of his servants, that I may show these signs of mine among them,
2 and that you may tell in the hearing of your son and of your grandson how I have dealt harshly with the Egyptians and what signs I have done among them, that you may know that I am the Lord.”
3 So Moses and Aaron went in to Pharaoh and said to him, “Thus says the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, ‘How long will you refuse to humble yourself before me? Let my people go, that they may serve me.
4 But if you refuse to let my people go, behold, tomorrow I will bring locusts into your country,
5 They shall cover the face of the land, so that no one can see the land. And they shall eat what is left to you after the hail, and they shall eat every tree of yours that grows in the field,
6 And they shall fill your houses and the houses of all your servants and of all the Egyptians, as neither your fathers nor your grandfathers have seen, from the day they came on earth to this day.’” Then he turned and went out from Pharaoh.
7 Then Pharaoh’s servants said to him, “How long shall this man be a snare to us? Let the men go, that they may serve the Lord their God. Do you not yet understand that Egypt is ruined?”
8 So Moses and Aaron were brought back to Pharaoh. And he said to them, “Go, serve the Lord your God. But which ones are to go?”
9 Moses said, “We will go with our young and our old. We will go with our sons and daughters and with our flocks and herds, for we must hold a feast to the Lord.”
10 Then he said to them, “The Lord be with you, if ever I let you and your little ones go! Look, you have some evil purpose in mind.
11 Not so! Go now, the men among you, and serve the Lord, for that is what you are asking.” And they were driven out from Pharaoh’s presence.
12 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the land of Egypt for the locusts, so that they may come upon the land of Egypt and eat every plant in the land, all that the hail has left.”
13 So Moses stretched out his staff over the land of Egypt, and the Lord brought an east wind upon the land all that day and all that night. When it was morning, the east wind had brought the locusts.
14 The locusts came up over all the land of Egypt and settled on the whole country of Egypt, such a dense swarm of locusts as had never been before, nor ever will be again.
15 They covered the face of the whole land, so that the land was darkened, and they ate all the plants in the land and all the fruit of the trees that the hail had left. Not a green thing remained, neither tree nor plant of the field, through all the land of Egypt.
16 Then Pharaoh hastily called Moses and Aaron and said, “I have sinned against the Lord your God, and against you.
17 Now therefore, forgive my sin, please, only this once, and plead with the Lord your God only to remove this death from me.”
18 So he went out from Pharaoh and pleaded with the Lord.
19 And the Lord turned the wind into a very strong west wind, which lifted the locusts and drove them into the Red Sea. Not a single locust was left in all the country of Egypt.
20 But the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not let the people of Israel go.
21 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, a darkness to be felt.”
22 So Moses stretched out his hand toward heaven, and there was pitch darkness in all the land of Egypt three days.
23 They did not see one another, nor did anyone rise from his place for three days, but all the people of Israel had light where they lived.
24 Then Pharaoh called Moses and said, “Go, serve the Lord; your little ones also may go with you; only let your flocks and your herds remain behind.”
25 But Moses said, “You must also let us have sacrifices and burnt offerings, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God.
26 But Moses said, “It would not be right to do so, for the offerings we shall sacrifice to the Lord our God are an abomination to the Egyptians. If we sacrifice offerings abominable to the Egyptians before their eyes, will they not stone us?
27 But the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not let them go.
28 Then Pharaoh said to him, “Get away from me; take care never to see my face again, for on the day you see my face you shall die.”
29 But Moses said, “You must let us also have sacrifices and burnt offerings, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God.
The True Meaning of Exodus 10
The book of Exodus was written by Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites. Moses, a former prince of Egypt, had a unique perspective on the events that unfolded during the Israelites’ captivity and their eventual exodus from the land of their oppressors. The Lord unleashes a series of devastating plagues upon the land of Egypt as we witness the continued power struggle between Moses and Pharaoh in this chapter. The chapter foreshadows the climactic confrontation between the Israelites and their Egyptian overlords, leading to the dramatic parting of the Red Sea and the Israelites’ miraculous escape from bondage.
Throughout this passage, we see the Lord’s unwavering commitment to His chosen people, as He demonstrates His power and authority over the false gods of Egypt. The chapter also highlights the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart, a theme that echoes throughout the book of Exodus, and serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of defying the will of the Almighty.
Exodus 10:1-6
Moses and Aaron once again approach Pharaoh with a message from God in Exodus 10:1-6. Here, God instructs Moses to go to Pharaoh and speak to him, letting him know that God has hardened his heart and the hearts of his officials, as a consequence of the previous refusals to let the Israelites go. This hardening of hearts is a significant theme throughout the Exodus narrative, illustrating the concept that Pharaoh and his officials continued to resist God’s will despite witnessing numerous miraculous signs and displays of divine power.
When God tells Moses to speak to Pharaoh and his officials, He emphasizes the purpose behind the previous plagues – so that they may tell their children and grandchildren about the signs performed in Egypt and how God dealt harshly with the Egyptians. This highlights the importance of remembrance and passing down stories of God’s power and faithfulness to future generations. It also underscores the idea that God’s actions were not only for the immediate deliverance of the Israelites but for a lasting impact that would serve as a testament to His might for generations to come.
Further, in these verses, the locust plague is forewarned. These insects are described as covering the ground and devouring everything that was left after the hail had destroyed the crops. The devastating effects of the locust invasion were not only physical but also had a profound socioeconomic impact on the Egyptians. This plague serves as a poignant reminder of God’s ability to bring about judgment and correction through natural elements, demonstrating His sovereignty over all creation.
The significance of these verses extends beyond the historical account of the plagues in Egypt. They serve as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness to His promises, His ultimate authority over earthly powers, and the consequences of disobedience and hardened hearts. This message reverberates throughout the Bible, emphasizing themes of repentance, obedience, and the ultimate triumph of God’s will over human resistance. The narrative of Moses and Pharaoh serves as a cautionary tale for all generations, urging us to heed God’s voice, trust in His power, and recognize the consequences of rejecting His authority.
Exodus 10:7-11
Moses and Pharaoh have a significant exchange in Exodus 10:7-11 during the series of plagues that God sends upon Egypt to demonstrate His power and liberation of the Israelites. This section of the Bible verse reveals an ongoing power struggle between Moses, speaking on behalf of God, and Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt. Pharaoh’s heart is hardened, and he continues to refuse to let the Israelites go despite the devastation of the plagues.
Moses, as the chosen leader of the Israelites, confronts Pharaoh with a straightforward and bold message from God. Moses tells Pharaoh in verse 7 that locusts will come upon the land and devour what little is left after the previous plagues of blood, frogs, and gnats if he does not let the Israelites go. Moses makes it clear that Pharaoh’s stubbornness will only bring about more destruction and suffering for his people.
Pharaoh’s response in verse 8 is telling of his arrogance and defiance. He acknowledges his sin against God and the Israelites, but in his pride, he still refuses to give in to Moses’ demands. Pharaoh’s stubbornness is emblematic of the consequences of a hardened heart and the resistance to the will of God. The locusts descend upon Egypt in verse 14, destroying every plant and tree in the land as a result of Pharaoh’s refusal to heed the warnings. The devastation caused by the locusts serves as a clear demonstration of God’s power and judgment over those who defy Him. It underscores the consequences of disobedience and the importance of submitting to God’s will.
This passage in Exodus 10 serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of pride, stubbornness, and disobedience. Pharaoh’s unwillingness to humble himself before God and recognize His sovereignty led to the suffering of the Egyptian people and further reinforced the miraculous display of God’s power through the plagues. The story of Pharaoh and the plagues in Exodus highlights the theme of God’s faithfulness to His promises and His ultimate authority over all nations and rulers. This passage echoes the importance of obedience to God’s commands and the perils of resisting His will when examined in the broader context of the Bible. Throughout the Bible, we see numerous examples of individuals, like Pharaoh, who chose to rebel against God and faced the consequences of their actions. Proverbs 16:18 reinforces this message, stating, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” The story of Pharaoh in Exodus serves as a cautionary tale for us all, reminding us of the importance of humility, obedience, and submission to God’s will in our lives.
Exodus 10:12-15
Pharaoh pleaded with Moses and Aaron in Exodus 10:12-15 to intercede with God on his behalf, asking for the removal of the locusts that had overrun Egypt. This section is significant as it demonstrates the shifting attitudes of Pharaoh throughout the plagues. At this point, Pharaoh is feeling the impact of the devastation brought by the locusts and is desperate for relief. However, his request is not genuine repentance; it is more of a self-serving plea to alleviate his suffering.
This interaction highlights the theme of human stubbornness and the consequences of disobedience to God’s will. Pharaoh’s hardened heart is a recurring motif in the Exodus narrative, illustrating the dangers of pride and obstinacy in the face of divine authority. Despite witnessing the mighty power of God through the plagues, Pharaoh continues to resist God’s demands, leading to further suffering for himself and his people.
The locust plague itself is a significant symbol of God’s judgment and the consequences of disobedience. Locusts in biblical symbolism are often associated with destruction and divine retribution. This plague not only ravages the land, destroying crops and causing famine but also serves as a visual representation of the havoc that sin and rebellion can wreak in one’s life.
This passage also underscores the importance of genuine repentance and humility before God. While Pharaoh’s temporary change of heart is driven by his immediate circumstances, true repentance involves a deep-seated acknowledgment of sin, a turning away from disobedience, and a commitment to follow God’s will. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of individuals like King David and the Prodigal Son who demonstrate true repentance and experience God’s forgiveness and restoration. Exodus 10:12-15 serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of pride, stubbornness, and disobedience. It challenges us to reflect on our own attitudes towards God and examine whether we are truly submissive to His will or merely seeking temporary relief from our troubles. Just as Pharaoh’s temporary plea for mercy was not enough to avert the consequences of his actions, true repentance and obedience are essential for experiencing God’s grace and blessings in our lives.
Exodus 10:16-20
Pharaoh quickly summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “I have sinned against the Lord your God and against you.” Now forgive my sin once more and pray to the Lord your God to take this deadly plague away from me.’ Moses then left Pharaoh and prayed to the Lord. And the Lord changed the wind to a very strong west wind, which caught up the locusts and carried them into the Red Sea. Not a locust was left anywhere in Egypt. But the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not let the Israelites go.”
This passage captures a significant turning point in the story of the plagues that Moses and Aaron brought upon Egypt. After the devastation caused by the locusts, including the destruction of crops and food sources, Pharaoh finally recognizes the power and judgment of the Lord God. Pharaoh’s confession of sin and plea for forgiveness reflects a moment of humility, albeit temporary, in the face of divine punishment.
Moses serves as the intermediary between Pharaoh and God, as he has throughout this narrative. His role as a prophet and leader is vital in conveying the messages and interventions of the Lord. Moses leaves Pharaoh to pray to the Lord for the removal of the locust plague in this instance. The immediate response from God, changing the wind to clear the land of locusts, demonstrates His control over nature and His ability to answer prayers. This showcases God’s mercy in response to repentance and prayer, even from a hardened heart like Pharaoh’s.
It is essential to note the repeated mention of Pharaoh’s hardened heart in this passage, emphasizing the theme of obstinacy and divine hardening that runs throughout the Exodus narrative. Despite witnessing the power of God through the plagues, Pharaoh’s heart remains unyielding, and he refuses to release the Israelites from bondage. This persistent hardness of heart will eventually lead to further devastation for Egypt as more plagues are unleashed.
The overarching lesson from this passage lies in the consequences of pride, stubbornness, and rebellion against God. Pharaoh’s temporary acknowledgment of sin and request for forgiveness highlights the importance of humility and repentance in the face of divine judgment. It also serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and mercy, as He responds to genuine repentance with compassion and relief from affliction. The contrast between Pharaoh’s fleeting humility and God’s unwavering power underscores the timeless message of obedience and submission to the will of God to avoid destructive consequences.
Exodus 10:21-23
Exodus 10:21-23 discusses the plague of darkness that the Lord brought upon Egypt as a punishment for Pharaoh’s refusal to let the Israelites go. Let’s break down this verse into important sections for a detailed commentary. Moses, “Stretch out your hand toward the sky so that darkness spreads over Egypt—darkness that can be felt,” the Lord said.’” This verse depicts the power and authority of God manifested through the darkness that covered the land of Egypt. This darkness was not merely the absence of light but rather a darkness that could be physically felt. It was a supernatural darkness, unlike anything the Egyptians had ever experienced. This act was not only a powerful display of God’s might but also a stark reminder to Pharaoh of the consequences of challenging the will of the Almighty.
The darkness that descended upon Egypt serves as a symbolic representation of spiritual blindness and the absence of God’s presence. It mirrors the darkness that engulfs individuals or nations when they reject God and choose to walk in disobedience. Just as physical darkness can be oppressive and disorienting, spiritual darkness can lead to confusion, despair, and a sense of aimlessness in one’s life. The darkness in Exodus was a tangible manifestation of the separation from God that resulted from Pharaoh’s hardened heart and refusal to acknowledge the authority of the Lord. The darkness can be seen as a direct confrontation to the Egyptian belief system, which included worship of sun gods such as Ra. God demonstrated His supremacy over all false gods and showed that He alone has power over the sun, the moon, and all creation by covering the land in palpable darkness. This event underscores the biblical theme of monotheism and the unique sovereignty of the God of Israel over all other supposed deities.
Furthermore, the mention of darkness as a plague harkens back to the ninth plague of darkness in Exodus 10, where the Israelites were spared from the darkness that enveloped the Egyptians. This differentiation between the fate of the Egyptians and the protection of God’s people highlights the theme of divine deliverance and protection for those who are faithful and obedient to the Lord. Just as the darkness did not touch the Israelites, God’s light and presence shield His followers from the spiritual darkness and turmoil that afflict the world. The plague of darkness in Exodus 10:21-23 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty, judgment, and protection. It demonstrates the consequences of rebellion against God and the ultimate triumph of light over darkness. This event not only had profound implications for the ancient Egyptians but also conveys timeless messages about the importance of heeding God’s word, the perils of spiritual blindness, and the assurance of God’s unwavering presence for those who place their trust in Him.
Exodus 10:24-29
A pivotal moment in the narrative of the Ten Plagues of Egypt occurs in Exodus 10:24-29. The section begins with Pharaoh summoning Moses and Aaron and giving them permission to leave with the Israelites to worship in the wilderness. This moment marks a significant shift in Pharaoh’s stance, as he had previously been resistant to letting the Israelites go despite the devastating plagues that had afflicted Egypt. This change is a result of the severity of the plague of darkness and the impending threat of the final plague, the death of the firstborn.
Pharaoh’s permission for the Israelites to leave is conditional, as he asks them to leave their flocks and herds behind. This reveals Pharaoh’s continued attempt to exert control over the situation and prevent the Israelites from fully leaving his domain. The livestock were valuable assets, and Pharaoh likely hoped that by leaving them behind, the Israelites would have a reason to return.
Moses refuses Pharaoh’s condition and asserts that they must take their livestock with them to sacrifice to the Lord. This refusal underscores the Israelites’ commitment to fully obeying God’s commands and not compromising on their worship. This insistence on taking their livestock also serves as a test of Pharaoh’s sincerity in letting them go.
After this exchange, Pharaoh, in his frustration and anger, warns Moses that he will never see his face again. Moses responds with a sobering pronouncement, declaring that Pharaoh is right and that they will indeed never see his face again because of the final plague that will strike Egypt. Moses’ resolute words foreshadow the imminent judgment that will befall the Egyptians and culminate in the Passover, where the Israelites are instructed to sacrifice a lamb and mark their doorposts with its blood to protect their firstborn from the angel of death.
This section showcases not only the stubbornness of Pharaoh but also the unwavering faith and obedience of Moses and the Israelites. It underscores the importance of remaining steadfast in following God’s instructions, even in the face of pressure and resistance. The interactions between Moses and Pharaoh in this passage reveal the consequences of hardened hearts and disobedience to God’s will, as well as the impending judgment for those who refuse to heed His warnings. The Exodus narrative serves as a powerful illustration of God’s faithfulness, His judgment against unrepentant sin, and His deliverance of His people in the broader context of the Bible. It also points forward to the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, the sacrificial Lamb whose blood redeems us from sin and death. The story of the Israelites’ liberation from Egypt stands as a timeless reminder of God’s sovereignty, His power over all earthly rulers, and His desire to lead His people into freedom and salvation.
After Exodus 10
The darkness that had descended upon the land was oppressive and all-consuming. The people of Egypt had been plunged into a state of despair, unable to see beyond the thick, impenetrable gloom. Yet, even in the midst of this profound darkness, the Lord’s hand was at work, guiding His people towards a future filled with hope and redemption. The Pharaoh’s heart remained hardened as the chapter drew to a close, his stubbornness unwavering. But the Lord’s plan was unfolding, and the stage was set for the final confrontation between the Almighty and the ruler of Egypt. The people of Israel, long-suffering and weary, would soon witness the ultimate display of God’s power and the fulfillment of His promise to deliver them from bondage.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.