Exodus Chapter 9 continues the dramatic narrative of the plagues that God sends upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. This chapter specifically recounts the fifth, sixth, and seventh plagues: the death of livestock, boils, and hail. Each plague serves as a testament to God's power and a direct challenge to the stubbornness of Pharaoh.
The chapter begins with the fifth plague: the death of livestock. The Lord instructs Moses to go to Pharaoh and deliver a message: “Let my people go, so that they may worship me” (Exodus 9:1, NIV). If Pharaoh refuses, God will bring a severe plague on the livestock of Egypt. This plague is selective, sparing the livestock of the Israelites while devastating the animals of the Egyptians. The next day, as promised, the livestock of the Egyptians die en masse, but not a single animal belonging to the Israelites is harmed. Despite this clear demonstration of divine power and differentiation, Pharaoh remains obstinate and refuses to let the Israelites go.
Following this, the sixth plague is introduced: boils. The Lord instructs Moses and Aaron to take handfuls of soot from a furnace and toss it into the air in Pharaoh’s presence. The soot becomes fine dust over the land of Egypt, causing festering boils to break out on people and animals throughout the land (Exodus 9:8-9, NIV). This plague afflicts everyone, including the magicians of Egypt, who are unable to stand before Moses because of the boils. This plague shows God’s control over health and affliction, further demonstrating His supremacy over the gods of Egypt. Yet, despite the suffering of his people and advisors, Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened, and he does not release the Israelites.
The seventh plague, hail, is then announced. The Lord instructs Moses to confront Pharaoh early in the morning and warn him of a devastating hailstorm that will strike Egypt if he does not relent. God’s message through Moses is clear: “I will send the full force of my plagues against you and against your officials and your people, so you may know that there is no one like me in all the earth” (Exodus 9:14, NIV). This plague is a direct assault on the Egyptian belief in their gods’ ability to protect them from natural calamities. God’s power over the elements demonstrates His sovereignty and ultimate authority.
Moses warns Pharaoh and the Egyptians to bring their livestock and servants indoors to avoid the deadly hail. Some heed the warning and shelter their animals and servants, while others disregard it. When Moses stretches out his staff towards the sky, the Lord sends thunder, hail, and lightning that strikes the ground, causing widespread devastation. The hailstorm is unlike any that Egypt has ever seen, destroying crops, trees, and every living thing left in the open. The land of Goshen, where the Israelites live, is once again spared, underscoring God’s protection over His people.
Pharaoh, now faced with the overwhelming destruction, summons Moses and Aaron and admits his sin, saying, “This time I have sinned. The Lord is in the right, and I and my people are in the wrong” (Exodus 9:27, NIV). He begs Moses to pray to the Lord to end the plague, promising to let the Israelites go. Moses agrees to pray but warns Pharaoh not to deceive him again. After Moses prays, the hail ceases, and the skies clear. However, once the immediate danger has passed, Pharaoh’s heart hardens once more, and he reneges on his promise, refusing to let the Israelites go.
Exodus Chapter 9 is a powerful narrative of God’s relentless pursuit of justice and liberation for His people. The chapter highlights several key theological themes:
-
God’s Sovereignty: Each plague demonstrates God’s control over various aspects of creation, from livestock and health to weather. This underscores His supremacy over the gods of Egypt and His authority over all creation.
-
Divine Justice: The plagues are a response to the oppression and suffering of the Israelites. God’s actions are aimed at delivering His people and punishing the Egyptians for their cruelty.
-
Human Stubbornness and Divine Patience: Pharaoh’s repeated refusals to heed God’s commands despite the clear signs and wonders highlight human stubbornness and the hardness of heart. At the same time, God’s persistence in sending Moses and the plagues reflects His patience and determination to achieve His purposes.
-
Protection and Favor for God’s People: The distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites in the plagues, particularly in the sparing of the Israelite livestock and land, emphasizes God’s special protection and favor for His chosen people.
-
Repentance and Relapse: Pharaoh’s temporary repentance when faced with the severity of the plagues, followed by his relapse into stubbornness once the immediate threat is removed, serves as a cautionary tale about the nature of true repentance and the danger of insincere promises.
In summary, Exodus Chapter 9 is a vivid and dramatic account of God’s power and justice at work. It serves as a reminder of His sovereignty, the consequences of hard-heartedness, and His unwavering commitment to the liberation and protection of His people. The chapter invites readers to reflect on their own responses to God’s commands and the importance of genuine repentance and obedience.
