◄ Exodus 9 ►
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The Fifth Plague: Livestock 1Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh and tell him that this is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: ‘Let My people go, so that they may worship Me. 2But if you continue to restrain them and refuse to let them go, 3then the hand of the LORD will bring a severe plague on your livestock in the field—on your horses, donkeys, camels, herds, and flocks. 4But the LORD will make a distinction between the livestock of Israel and the livestock of Egypt, so that no animal belonging to the Israelites will die.’” 5The LORD set a time, saying, “Tomorrow the LORD will do this in the land.” 6And the next day the LORD did just that. All the livestock of the Egyptians died, but not one animal belonging to the Israelites died. 7Pharaoh sent officials and found that none of the livestock of the Israelites had died. But Pharaoh’s heart was hardened,a and he would not let the people go. The Sixth Plague: Boils 8Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, “Take handfuls of soot from the furnace; in the sight of Pharaoh, Moses is to toss it into the air. 9It will become fine dust over all the land of Egypt, and festering boils will break out on man and beast throughout the land.” 10So they took soot from the furnace and stood before Pharaoh. Moses tossed it into the air, and festering boils broke out on man and beast. 11The magicians could not stand before Moses, because the boils had broken out on them and on all the Egyptians. 12But the LORD hardenedb Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said to Moses. The Seventh Plague: Hail 13Then the LORD said to Moses, “Get up early in the morning, stand before Pharaoh, and tell him that this is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: ‘Let My people go, so that they may worship Me. 14Otherwise, I will send all My plagues against youc and your officials and your people, so you may know that there is no one like Me in all the earth. 15For by this time I could have stretched out My hand and struck you and your people with a plague to wipe you off the earth. 16But I have raised you upd for this very purpose, that I might display My power to you,e and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth.f 17Still, you lord it over My people and do not allow them to go. 18Behold, at this time tomorrow I will rain down the worst hail that has ever fallen on Egypt, from the day it was founded until now. 19So give orders now to shelter your livestock and everything you have in the field. Every man or beast that remains in the field and is not brought inside will die when the hail comes down upon them.’” 20Those among Pharaoh’s officials who feared the word of the LORD hurried to bring their servants and livestock to shelter, 21but those who disregarded the word of the LORD left their servants and livestock in the field. 22Then the LORD said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand toward heaven, so that hail may fall on all the land of Egypt—on man and beast and every plant of the field throughout the land of Egypt.” 23So Moses stretched out his staff toward heaven, and the LORD sent thunder and hail, and lightning struck the earth. So the LORD rained down hail upon the land of Egypt. 24The hail fell and the lightning continued flashing through it. The hail was so severe that nothing like it had ever been seen in all the land of Egypt from the time it became a nation. 25Throughout the land of Egypt, the hail struck down everything in the field, both man and beast; it beat down every plant of the field and stripped every tree. 26The only place where it did not hail was in the land of Goshen, where the Israelites lived. 27Then Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron. “This time I have sinned,” he said. “The LORD is righteous, and I and my people are wicked. 28Pray to the LORD, for there has been enough of God’s thunder and hail. I will let you go; you do not need to stay any longer.” 29Moses said to him, “When I have left the city, I will spread out my hands to the LORD. The thunder will cease, and there will be no more hail, so that you may know that the earth is the LORD’s. 30But as for you and your officials, I know that you still do not fear the LORD our God.” 31(Now the flax and barley were destroyed, since the barley was ripe and the flax was in bloom; 32but the wheat and spelt were not destroyed, because they are late crops.) 33Then Moses departed from Pharaoh, went out of the city, and spread out his hands to the LORD. The thunder and hail ceased, and the rain no longer poured down on the land. 34When Pharaoh saw that the rain and hail and thunder had ceased, he sinned again and hardened his heart—he and his officials. 35So Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not let the Israelites go, just as the LORD had said through Moses. Footnotes: 7 a Or made heavy; also in verse 34 12 b Or stiffened or strengthened; also in verse 35 14 c Hebrew against your heart or against your inner man 16 d Or have spared you 16 e LXX in you 16 f Cited in Romans 9:17 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Exodus 9 Summary The Plagues of Livestock, Boils, and Hail Verses 1–7 – Pestilence on Livestock Moses again delivers the aged yet unwavering command: “Let My people go, so that they may worship Me.” Pharaoh refuses, and a sudden, divinely timed plague strikes Egypt’s horses, donkeys, camels, herds, and flocks. Every animal in the open fields belonging to the Egyptians dies, yet “not one of the livestock of Israel died” (v. 6). Pharaoh checks the report personally, finds it true, but still hardens his heart. Verses 8–12 – Boils on Man and Beast At God’s direction, Moses tosses handfuls of kiln soot heavenward. Fine dust spreads, causing festering boils to break out on Egyptians and their animals. Even Pharaoh’s magicians—once copycats of Moses—cannot stand before him “because of the boils” (v. 11). The Lord strengthens Pharaoh’s resolve, and he will not listen. Verses 13–21 – Warning of Devastating Hail Before the hail falls, God instructs Moses to rise early and confront Pharaoh. This time the message is sharper: “For this time I will send all My plagues against your heart” (v. 14). A thunderstorm of unprecedented severity is announced. Egyptians are given the chance to shelter people and animals indoors. Some officials heed the warning, proving the plague is avoidable through obedience; others leave servants and stock in the fields. Verses 22–26 – Hail Mixed with Fire Moses stretches out his staff. Torrential rain, booming thunder, flaming lightning, and smashing hailstones sweep the land—except Goshen. Flax and barley are ruined; wheat and spelt survive because they are late crops. Trees are splintered, fields shredded, and the Nile valley’s famed greenery lies in ruins. Verses 27–35 – A Short-Lived Confession Pharaoh calls Moses and Aaron: “I have sinned this time. The LORD is righteous, and my people and I are wicked” (v. 27). The storm stops the moment Moses prays. Yet when calm returns, Pharaoh and his officials again stiffen their necks, and Israel remains enslaved—for now. This chapter unfolds the ongoing confrontation between Moses, chosen messenger of the Lord, and the Pharaoh of Egypt. The narrative is a display of the Lord's might against Pharaoh's stubbornness as He sends several devastating plagues upon Egypt, seeking to secure the freedom of His chosen people, the Israelites. Historical Backdrop: Egyptian Gods Toppled • Livestock pestilence strikes Apis and Hathor—bull and cow deities symbolizing strength and fertility. • Boils humiliate Imhotep, revered healer. Even priests cannot cleanse themselves to serve in temples. • Hail embarrasses Nut (sky goddess), Shu (air god), and Tefnut (moisture goddess). A supposed pantheon of protectors is exposed as powerless. Geography and Agriculture Goshen sits in the eastern Nile delta. Annual inundation leaves rich silt that supports barley (early spring) and flax (for linen). Wheat and spelt ripen later, matching v. 31-32. Archaeological pollen studies confirm Egyptian barley heads in February–March, aligning with the plague sequence around late winter or early spring. Livestock in the Fifth Plague Excavations at sites like Tell el-Dab’a show mixed herds of cattle, sheep, goats, and equids. Skeleton analysis supports the biblical list. The death of work animals crushed transportation, military chariotry, and plowing. Yet Israelites’ herds thrive, underlying divine distinction. Pattern of Escalation 1. Warning at the river or palace 2. Command refused 3. Plague strikes, sparing Israel 4. Pharaoh negotiates, begs, or lies 5. Temporary relief 6. Heart hardened Plagues five through seven widen the target—from animals to people’s bodies to the very skies—revealing God’s unmatched reach. Hardened Heart: Dual Agency Exodus 9:12 states, “the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart,” yet earlier verses show Pharaoh hardening his own heart (8:15, 32). Scripture holds both ideas together: Pharaoh chooses rebellion, and God confirms the choice, steering events to display His power (9:16). The same principle surfaces in Isaiah 6:10 and Romans 9:17-18. Echoes in Later Scripture • Psalm 78:48-50 poetry-capsulates these plagues. • Psalm 105:26-36 recounts the livestock death, boils, and hail as proof of God’s covenant faithfulness. • Revelation 16:2, 21 mirrors boils and colossal hail during end-time judgments, suggesting Exodus as a preview of future deliverance. Why the Distinction for Israel? God promised Abraham, “I will bless those who bless you” (Genesis 12:3). The preserved herds, healthy bodies, and hail-free fields in Goshen shout that promise aloud. Later, Deuteronomy 7:19 urges future generations to remember “the signs and wonders” of Egypt when facing new enemies. Moses’ Integrity on Display Moses’ refusal to call off a plague until he leaves the city (v. 29) protects God’s honor; no Egyptian mage or weather omen can claim credit. His prayer ends the storm instantly, underlining that the servant’s intercession, not coincidence, brings relief. Practical Takeaways • Selective judgment underscores God’s ability to safeguard obedience amid catastrophe. • Supernatural plagues override natural cycles yet remain anchored in real geography and climate. • Hardened hearts rarely melt under pressure alone; genuine change follows surrendered obedience, not fear. Looking Ahead Three plagues remain—locusts, darkness, and the death of the firstborn. Each will drive the wedge deeper until Pharaoh releases Israel, setting the stage for Passover and the Red Sea crossing that forever define the nation’s identity. Connections to Additional Scriptures God's Sovereignty Psalm 135:6 - The LORD does whatever pleases Him, in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths. Protection of God's People Psalm 91:4 - He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and rampart. Hardening of Hearts Romans 9:17-18 - For the Scripture says to Pharaoh: 'I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display My power in you and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth.' Therefore God has mercy on whom He wants to have mercy, and He hardens whom He wants to harden. Call to Repentance 2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty Exodus 9:1-7 describes the plague on livestock, demonstrating God's control over life and death. Despite Pharaoh's stubbornness, God's will prevails. Distinction Between Egypt and Israel In verses 4 and 26, God makes a clear distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites, showing His protective hand over His chosen people. The Hardening of Pharaoh's Heart Verses 12 and 35 highlight the hardening of Pharaoh's heart, illustrating the consequences of persistent rebellion against God. God's Power Over Nature The plagues of boils (verses 8-12) and hail (verses 13-35) reveal God's command over the natural world, underscoring His omnipotence. Opportunity for Repentance Despite the severity of the plagues, God provides Pharaoh with opportunities to repent, showcasing His patience and desire for repentance (verse 19). Practical Applications Trust in God's Protection Just as God protected the Israelites, we can trust in His protection over our lives, even amidst trials. Recognize God's Authority Acknowledge God's sovereignty in all areas of life and submit to His will, avoiding the hardening of our hearts. Respond to God's Warnings Be attentive to God's warnings and promptings in our lives, responding with humility and repentance. Witness to God's Power Share testimonies of God's power and faithfulness in our lives as a witness to others. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The covenant name of God, who speaks to Moses and commands him to deliver messages to Pharaoh. The Hebrew name used is יְהוָה (YHWH), which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. 2. Moses The prophet and leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt. Moses acts as God's spokesperson to Pharaoh. 3. Pharaoh The king of Egypt, who is repeatedly confronted by Moses with demands to let the Israelites go. His heart is hardened, and he refuses to comply with God's commands. 4. The Egyptians The people of Egypt who suffer the consequences of Pharaoh's hardened heart through the plagues sent by God. 5. The Israelites The descendants of Jacob (Israel), who are enslaved in Egypt and are the intended beneficiaries of God's deliverance. Places 1. Egypt The entire chapter is set in Egypt, where the Israelites are enslaved. The plagues described in this chapter are part of God's judgment against Pharaoh and the Egyptians for refusing to let the Israelites go. The Hebrew term for Egypt is "Mitzrayim" (מִצְרַיִם), which is consistently used throughout the Old Testament to refer to the land of Egypt. 2. Pharaoh's Palace While not explicitly named in this chapter, Pharaoh's palace is implied as the location where Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh to deliver God's message. The palace would have been the center of Egyptian power and authority. 3. The Land of Goshen Although not mentioned directly in Exodus 9, Goshen is the region in Egypt where the Israelites lived. In the context of the plagues, it is significant because God often makes a distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites, sparing the land of Goshen from certain plagues. Events 1. The Plague on Livestock The LORD instructs Moses to go to Pharaoh and warn him about a severe plague that will strike the livestock of Egypt. The LORD makes a distinction between the livestock of Israel and Egypt, ensuring that none of the Israelites' animals will die. The next day, the LORD fulfills this promise, and all the Egyptian livestock die, but none of the Israelites' livestock are affected (Exodus 9:1-7). 2. The Plague of Boils The LORD commands Moses and Aaron to take handfuls of soot from a furnace and scatter it toward the sky in Pharaoh's presence. This soot becomes fine dust over the land of Egypt, causing boils to break out on people and animals. The magicians of Egypt are unable to stand before Moses because of the boils, and the LORD hardens Pharaoh's heart, preventing him from listening to Moses and Aaron (Exodus 9:8-12). 3. The Plague of Hail The LORD instructs Moses to rise early and warn Pharaoh about a devastating hailstorm that will occur if he does not let the Israelites go. The LORD emphasizes His power and sovereignty, stating that He could have wiped out the Egyptians but has allowed them to survive to demonstrate His power. Some of Pharaoh's officials heed the warning and bring their servants and livestock indoors, while others leave them in the fields. The LORD sends thunder, hail, and fire, destroying everything in the fields, including people, animals, and plants, except in the land of Goshen where the Israelites reside (Exodus 9:13-26). 4. Pharaoh's False Repentance Pharaoh summons Moses and Aaron, admitting his sin and asking them to pray to the LORD to stop the thunder and hail. Moses agrees to pray, but he warns Pharaoh that he knows Pharaoh and his officials still do not fear the LORD. After Moses prays, the storm ceases, but Pharaoh hardens his heart once again and refuses to let the Israelites go (Exodus 9:27-35). Lessons from Exodus 9 1. The Sovereignty of God In Exodus 9, we see God's absolute control over creation and history. The plagues He sends upon Egypt demonstrate His power and authority. As it is written, "For by now I could have stretched out My hand and struck you and your people with a plague that would have wiped you off the earth" (Exodus 9:15). This reminds us that God is sovereign over all, and His plans will always prevail. 2. The Hardness of Heart Pharaoh's repeated refusal to let the Israelites go highlights the danger of a hardened heart. Despite witnessing God's mighty works, Pharaoh's heart remained stubborn. "But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said to Moses" (Exodus 9:12). This serves as a cautionary tale to remain open to God's voice and guidance. 3. The Importance of Obedience Moses and Aaron's obedience to God's commands is a key theme in Exodus 9. Their faithfulness in delivering God's message to Pharaoh, despite the challenges, underscores the importance of obedience. "So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said to him, 'This is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: "How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me? Let My people go, so that they may worship Me"'" (Exodus 9:13). Obedience to God is crucial in fulfilling His purposes. 4. The Power of Prayer Moses' intercession for Pharaoh and Egypt during the plagues shows the power of prayer. When Pharaoh pleaded for relief, Moses prayed, and God responded. "Then Moses left Pharaoh and prayed to the LORD, and the LORD did what Moses asked" (Exodus 9:33). This encourages us to pray earnestly, knowing that God hears and answers. 5. The Consequences of Sin The plagues serve as a vivid reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience. Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's command resulted in suffering for the Egyptians. "The hail struck down everything in the field—both man and beast—and it beat down every plant of the field and shattered every tree" (Exodus 9:25). Sin has real consequences, and turning away from it is essential. 6. God's Mercy Amidst Judgment Even in judgment, God shows mercy. He warns Pharaoh and the Egyptians, giving them a chance to repent and avoid further plagues. "Give an order now to bring your livestock and everything you have in the field to a place of shelter, because the hail will fall on every man and beast that has not been brought in and is still in the field, and they will die" (Exodus 9:19). God's mercy is always available to those who turn to Him. 7. The Distinction of God's People God makes a clear distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites during the plagues. "But on the day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where My people live, so that no swarms of flies will be there, so that you will know that I, the LORD, am in this land" (Exodus 9:22). This distinction highlights God's protection and favor upon His people, reassuring us of His care. 8. The Testimony of God's Power The plagues serve as a testimony to God's power and might, not only to the Egyptians but to the entire world. "For by now I could have stretched out My hand and struck you and your people with a plague that would have wiped you off the earth" (Exodus 9:15). God's works are a testament to His greatness and are meant to draw people to Him. 9. The Call to Humility Pharaoh's pride and refusal to humble himself before God led to his downfall. "How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me?" (Exodus 9:17). Humility is essential in our relationship with God, acknowledging His authority and submitting to His will. 10. The Assurance of God's Promises Throughout Exodus 9, God's promises to deliver His people are evident. Despite the challenges, God remains faithful to His word. "But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not let the Israelites go" (Exodus 9:35). This assures us that God's promises are sure, and we can trust Him to fulfill them in His perfect timing. Topics 1. The Plague on Livestock In Exodus 9:1-7, God commands Moses to go to Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites. If Pharaoh refuses, God will send a severe plague on the Egyptian livestock. The Hebrew word for "plague" (דֶּבֶר, ^dever^) indicates a pestilence or disease. The distinction between the livestock of the Egyptians and the Israelites highlights God's protection over His people. 2. The Plague of Boils In verses 8-12, God instructs Moses and Aaron to take handfuls of soot from a furnace and scatter it toward the sky in Pharaoh's presence, resulting in boils breaking out on people and animals. The Hebrew term for "boils" (שְׁחִין, ^shechin^) refers to inflamed sores, demonstrating God's power over health and well-being. 3. The Plague of Hail Verses 13-35 describe the plague of hail, where God warns Pharaoh of an unprecedented storm. The Hebrew word for "hail" (בָּרָד, ^barad^) signifies a destructive force. This plague is a direct challenge to the Egyptian sky deities, showcasing God's supremacy over nature. The narrative emphasizes God's mercy, as He provides a warning to bring livestock and servants indoors to avoid the hail. Each of these topics reflects the ongoing conflict between God's will and Pharaoh's resistance, illustrating themes of divine judgment, mercy, and the distinction between God's people and their oppressors. Themes 1. Divine Judgment and Sovereignty Exodus 9 highlights God's sovereignty and His power to execute judgment upon Egypt through the plagues. The chapter demonstrates God's control over nature and His authority over Pharaoh, as seen in the plagues of livestock disease, boils, and hail. The Hebrew word for "plague" (נֶגַע, nega) emphasizes the affliction and divine intervention. 2. Hardened Heart of Pharaoh The theme of Pharaoh's hardened heart is prevalent, illustrating human resistance to God's will. Despite witnessing God's power, Pharaoh's heart remains obstinate. The Hebrew term for "harden" (כָּבֵד, kaved) suggests a heaviness or stubbornness, indicating Pharaoh's refusal to submit to God. 3. Distinction Between Egypt and Israel God makes a clear distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites, protecting His people from the plagues. This theme underscores God's covenant relationship with Israel and His faithfulness to His promises. The separation serves as a sign of God's favor and protection over His chosen people. 4. God's Purpose in the Plagues The plagues serve a dual purpose: to demonstrate God's power and to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. God declares His intent to show His power and make His name known throughout the earth (Exodus 9:16). The Hebrew root for "declare" (סָפַר, safar) implies recounting or proclaiming, emphasizing the global impact of God's actions. 5. Repentance and Acknowledgment of God The plagues lead some Egyptians to acknowledge God's power, as seen when Pharaoh's officials plead with him to release the Israelites (Exodus 9:20). This theme highlights the potential for repentance and recognition of God's sovereignty, even among those outside the covenant community. 6. God's Mercy Amidst Judgment Despite the severity of the plagues, God's mercy is evident. He provides warnings and opportunities for repentance, as seen when He instructs the Egyptians to shelter their livestock from the hail (Exodus 9:19). This theme reflects God's desire for repentance and His willingness to extend mercy even in judgment. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that is sensitive to God's voice and willing to submit to His authority. Ask for God's protection and guidance in times of trial, trusting in His faithfulness. Pray for those who are resistant to God's call, that their hearts may be softened and open to repentance. Thank God for His patience and mercy, and for the opportunities He gives us to turn back to Him. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Exodus 9:6 say all Egyptian livestock died, yet later verses still refer to surviving livestock? 2. Why are there no clear Egyptian historical or archaeological records of these devastating plagues (Exodus 9)? 3. How plausible is a widespread hailstorm of the described magnitude in the region (Exodus 9:18–25)? 4. If the magicians also suffered from the boils (Exodus 9:11), why is there no extra-biblical account of widespread sudden disease? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the distinction made by God between Egyptian and Israelite livestock in the plagues say about His character? 2. How does Pharaoh's repeated hardening of his heart despite witnessing God's power reflect on human nature? 3. What lessons can modern society draw from the responses of the Egyptians who heeded Moses' warning about the hailstorm and those who didn't? 4. How do you relate to Pharaoh's hardened heart in your life? Are there areas where you repeatedly resist God's will? 5. How can we recognize when our hearts are becoming hardened like Pharaoh's? 6. How does God's patience with Pharaoh resonate with your experiences of God's patience in your life? 7. Despite God's overwhelming display of power, why do you think Pharaoh continued to resist? 8. Why do you think God allowed the flax and barley to be destroyed, but not the wheat and spelt? 9. In what ways does God's treatment of the Israelites contrast with His treatment of the Egyptians? 10. What does Moses' role in this narrative teach us about obedience to God? 11. How can the events in this chapter inform your prayers when you or others face stubborn obstacles? 12. What do the plagues teach us about the consequences of ignoring God's warnings? 13. How does the narrative of Pharaoh's false repentance serve as a cautionary tale for us? 14. How does the narrative of the plagues showcase God's sovereignty over nature? 15. What do the actions of the Egyptian magicians suggest about the limitations of human power versus divine power? 16. In what ways do the plagues challenge the concept of self-sufficiency? 17. How can we apply the lessons from this narrative to situations of injustice in the world today? 18. How do you think the Israelites felt during these plagues and how would you have felt in their place? 19. How does the concept of God "raising" Pharaoh up for His purpose resonate with your understanding of God's purpose in your life? 20. In the context of your faith, what does Pharaoh's statement, "The LORD is righteous, and I and my people are wicked" mean to you? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions