Exodus 7:20

Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded; in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials, Aaron raised the staff and struck the water of the Nile, and all the water was turned to blood.

Study Bible

So Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded
This phrase underscores the obedience of Moses and Aaron to God's command. The Hebrew root for "commanded" is צָוָה (tsavah), which implies a direct order or charge. Their compliance is a testament to their faith and trust in God's plan, setting an example for believers to follow divine instructions even when faced with daunting tasks. Historically, this obedience is pivotal as it initiates the series of plagues that demonstrate God's power over Egypt's gods.

in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials
The phrase highlights the public nature of the miracle. The Hebrew word for "presence" is פָּנִים (panim), meaning face or before. This act was not done in secret but openly, challenging the authority of Pharaoh and the Egyptian pantheon. It signifies God's intention to reveal His supremacy not only to the Israelites but also to the Egyptians, emphasizing the universal scope of His power.

Aaron raised the staff and struck the water of the Nile
The "staff" is a symbol of authority and divine power. In Hebrew, the word for staff is מַטֶּה (matteh), which can also mean tribe or branch, symbolizing leadership and connection to God. The Nile was central to Egyptian life and worship, representing fertility and sustenance. By striking the Nile, Aaron, under God's command, directly challenges the Egyptian deities associated with the river, such as Hapi, the god of the Nile, demonstrating that the God of Israel is the true sovereign over creation.

and all the water was turned to blood
The transformation of water into blood is a powerful sign of judgment. The Hebrew word for blood is דָּם (dam), which is often associated with life and death. This miraculous event signifies the beginning of God's judgments against Egypt, turning their life source into a symbol of death. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of defying God's will and the seriousness of His judgments. This act foreshadows the ultimate deliverance of Israel and the establishment of God's covenant with His people, reinforcing the theme of redemption and divine justice throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He acts in obedience to God's command.

2. Aaron
Moses' brother and spokesperson, who assists Moses in confronting Pharaoh and performing signs.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against letting the Israelites go, despite witnessing God's power.

4. The Nile River
A vital water source for Egypt, symbolizing life and prosperity, which God turns to blood as a sign of His power and judgment.

5. Egyptian Officials
Witnesses to the miracle, representing the Egyptian authority and their resistance to God's will.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Command
Moses and Aaron's actions demonstrate the importance of following God's instructions, even when facing powerful opposition.

God's Sovereignty Over Nature
The transformation of the Nile's waters shows God's control over creation, reminding us of His ultimate authority.

Judgment and Mercy
The plagues serve as both a judgment against Egypt and a call to repentance, highlighting God's justice and mercy.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's resistance illustrates the danger of a hardened heart, urging us to remain open to God's voice.

Faith in Action
The faith of Moses and Aaron is evident in their willingness to act on God's word, encouraging us to trust and act on our faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of Moses and Aaron in this passage challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways does the transformation of the Nile's waters demonstrate God's power and authority in your life?

3. How can we guard against having a hardened heart like Pharaoh when confronted with God's truth?

4. What parallels can you draw between the plagues in Egypt and the judgments described in Revelation?

5. How can we apply the lessons of faith and obedience from Moses and Aaron's example to our current challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:1-2
The creation of water and its significance in sustaining life, contrasting with its transformation into blood as a sign of judgment.

Revelation 16:3-4
The plagues in Revelation echo the plagues in Egypt, showing God's consistent judgment against sin and rebellion.

Psalm 78:44
A recounting of the plagues, emphasizing God's power and the consequences of disobedience.