Exodus 8:19

"This is the finger of God," the magicians said to Pharaoh. But Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said.

Study Bible

The magicians
In the context of ancient Egypt, magicians were considered wise men and practitioners of the occult arts. They were highly esteemed in Pharaoh's court and were expected to replicate or counteract the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron. The Hebrew word used here is "חַרְטֻמִּים" (chartummim), which refers to these skilled magicians or sorcerers. Their inability to replicate the plague of gnats signifies the limitations of human wisdom and power when confronted with the divine authority of God.

said to Pharaoh
This phrase indicates a direct communication to Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, who is seen as a god-like figure in Egyptian culture. The magicians, who were his trusted advisors, are now compelled to speak to him, acknowledging a power greater than their own. This moment is pivotal as it marks a shift in the narrative where even those who oppose God begin to recognize His supremacy.

This is the finger of God
The phrase "finger of God" is a powerful metaphor indicating divine intervention. In Hebrew, "אֶצְבַּע אֱלֹהִים" (etsba Elohim) suggests a direct act of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and power. This acknowledgment by the magicians is significant because it contrasts the impotence of Egyptian deities and magic with the omnipotence of the God of Israel. It serves as a testament to God's authority over creation and His ability to execute His will despite human resistance.

But Pharaoh's heart was hardened
The hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a recurring theme in Exodus, illustrating the spiritual blindness and stubbornness that can afflict those who resist God's will. The Hebrew word "כָּבֵד" (kaved) implies a heaviness or insensitivity, suggesting that Pharaoh's refusal to heed the warning is both a personal choice and a divine judgment. This hardening serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the refusal to submit to God's authority.

and he would not listen to them
Pharaoh's refusal to listen, despite the clear evidence of God's power, highlights the tragic consequences of a hardened heart. The Hebrew verb "שָׁמַע" (shama) means to hear or obey, indicating that Pharaoh's disobedience is not just a failure to hear but a deliberate choice to reject the truth. This serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and openness to God's voice in our lives.

just as the LORD had said
This phrase underscores the fulfillment of God's word and His sovereign control over the events unfolding in Egypt. The consistency of God's declarations and their realization in history affirm His faithfulness and reliability. It reassures believers that God's promises are trustworthy and that His plans will ultimately prevail, regardless of human opposition. This serves as an encouragement to trust in God's timing and purpose, even when circumstances seem challenging.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart was hardened against the Israelites and God’s commands.

2. Magicians
Egyptian magicians who initially replicated some of the plagues but recognized the divine power behind the plague of gnats.

3. Moses and Aaron
God’s chosen leaders to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage.

4. The Plague of Gnats
The third plague sent by God, which the magicians could not replicate, leading them to acknowledge God's power.

5. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved and where God demonstrated His power through the plagues.

Teaching Points

Recognition of Divine Power
The magicians' acknowledgment of "the finger of God" highlights the undeniable power and authority of God, which even those opposed to Him must recognize.

The Hardening of the Heart
Pharaoh's hardened heart serves as a warning against resisting God's will. It illustrates the danger of pride and stubbornness in the face of divine truth.

God's Sovereignty and Purpose
Despite Pharaoh's resistance, God's purposes were fulfilled. This teaches us about God's sovereignty and His ability to work through any situation to accomplish His will.

The Limitations of Human Power
The magicians' inability to replicate the plague of gnats shows the limitations of human power and wisdom compared to God's omnipotence.

Responding to God's Signs
The passage challenges us to respond to God's signs and wonders with faith and obedience, rather than skepticism and resistance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the acknowledgment of "the finger of God" by the magicians challenge our understanding of divine power and authority?

2. In what ways can we identify and address areas in our lives where our hearts may be hardened against God's will?

3. How does the account of Pharaoh's hardened heart relate to the New Testament teachings on spiritual blindness and resistance to the Gospel?

4. What are some modern-day "plagues" or challenges that reveal the limitations of human power and the need for divine intervention?

5. How can we cultivate a heart that is responsive to God's signs and wonders, ensuring that we are aligned with His purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7:3-4
This passage foretells the hardening of Pharaoh's heart and the signs and wonders God would perform in Egypt.

Matthew 12:28
Jesus refers to the "finger of God" in the context of casting out demons, indicating divine authority and power.

Romans 1:21-22
Discusses the hardening of hearts and the refusal to acknowledge God, similar to Pharaoh's response.