◄ Exodus 7 ►
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God Commands Moses and Aaron 1The LORD answered Moses, “See, I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron will be your prophet. 2You are to speak all that I command you, and your brother Aaron is to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go out of his land. 3But I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and though I will multiply My signs and wonders in the land of Egypt, 4Pharaoh will not listen to you. Then I will lay My hand on Egypt, and by mighty acts of judgment I will bring the divisions of My people the Israelites out of the land of Egypt. 5And the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD, when I stretch out My hand against Egypt and bring the Israelites out from among them.” 6So Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded them. 7Moses was eighty years old and Aaron was eighty-three when they spoke to Pharaoh. Aaron’s Staff 8The LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 9“When Pharaoh tells you, ‘Perform a miracle,’ you are to say to Aaron, ‘Take your staff and throw it down before Pharaoh,’ and it will become a serpent.a” 10So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did just as the LORD had commanded. Aaron threw his staff down before Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a serpent. 11But Pharaoh called the wise men and sorcerers and magicians of Egypt, and they also did the same things by their magic arts. 12Each one threw down his staff, and it became a serpent. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up the other staffs. 13Still, Pharaoh’s heart was hardened,b and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said. The First Plague: Blood 14Then the LORD said to Moses, “Pharaoh’s heart is unyielding;c he refuses to let the people go. 15Go to Pharaoh in the morning as you see him walking out to the water. Wait on the bank of the Nile to meet him, and take in your hand the staff that was changed into a snake. 16Then say to him, ‘The LORD, the God of the Hebrews, has sent me to tell you: Let My people go, so that they may worship Me in the wilderness. But until now you have not listened. 17This is what the LORD says: By this you will know that I am the LORD. Behold, with the staff in my hand I will strike the water of the Nile, and it will turn to blood. 18The fish in the Nile will die, the river will stink, and the Egyptians will be unable to drink its water.’” 19And the LORD said to Moses, “Tell Aaron, ‘Take your staff and stretch out your hand over the waters of Egypt—over their rivers and canals and ponds and all the reservoirs—that they may become blood.’ There will be blood throughout the land of Egypt, even in the vessels of wood and stone.” 20Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded; in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials, Aaron raised the staffd and struck the water of the Nile, and all the water was turned to blood. 21The fish in the Nile died, and the river smelled so bad that the Egyptians could not drink its water. And there was blood throughout the land of Egypt. 22But the magicians of Egypt did the same things by their magic arts. So Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had said. 23Instead, Pharaoh turned around, went into his palace, and did not take any of this to heart. 24So all the Egyptians dug around the Nile for water to drink, because they could not drink the water from the river. 25And seven full days passed after the LORD had struck the Nile. Footnotes: 9 a Hebrew tannin; here and in verse 10, in contrast to Moses’ staff, which became a nachash in Exodus 4:3 and was noted again in Exodus 7:15 13 b Or stiffened or strengthened; also in verse 22 14 c Or heavy or stubborn 20 d Hebrew he raised the staff; see verse 19; some translators Moses raised the staff. 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 7 Summary The Plague of Blood Verses 1–7 – Divine Appointment and Pharaoh’s Hard Heart God tells Moses, “I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron will be your prophet.” Moses must speak everything God commands, Aaron will relay it, and Pharaoh will still refuse. Yet through that refusal God will show His power with “My signs and wonders.” Moses is eighty, Aaron eighty-three; their age highlights that strength for the task comes from the Lord, not from youth. Verses 8–13 – Staffs Become Serpents When Pharaoh demands proof, Aaron throws down his staff before the king; it becomes a serpent. Pharaoh’s magicians copy the sign “by their secret arts,” but Aaron’s serpent swallows theirs. Even this striking picture leaves Pharaoh’s heart unmoved. Verses 14–19 – Announcement of the First Plague God instructs Moses to meet Pharaoh at the Nile at daybreak. With the same staff that struck the serpent sign, Aaron is to strike the river. “The water in the Nile will turn to blood,” fish will die, the river will stink, and Egyptians will loathe drinking it. Verses 20–24 – Nile Turned to Blood Moses and Aaron obey “in the sight of Pharaoh and his officials.” All water in Egypt—even water in wooden and stone jars—turns to blood. Magicians mimic the plague on a smaller scale, so Pharaoh again hardens his heart. Egyptians dig wells near the river for drinkable water. Verse 25 – Waiting for the Next Confrontation Seven days pass after the Lord strikes the Nile, giving time for Pharaoh to repent, but he does not. The stage is set for the next plague. The chapter unfolds as the LORD endows Moses and Aaron with divine powers, enabling them to confront Pharaoh. Despite the ensuing wonders and miracles, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened, leading to the LORD's mighty act of turning the Nile's water into blood. Historical Setting • Egypt’s power in the Late Bronze Age was anchored in the Nile, worshiped as a god and relied on for crops, transport, and trade. • Pharaoh likely viewed himself as the protector of Ma’at—order. A challenge to the Nile was a direct challenge to his divine role. Moses “as God” to Pharaoh • God’s phrase in 7:1 (“I have made you like God to Pharaoh”) does not elevate Moses to deity; it means Moses will speak with God’s authority. Compare Jeremiah 1:9, where the Lord puts His words in Jeremiah’s mouth. • Aaron functions as a spokesman, mirroring a prophet’s task of communicating God’s message. Role of Signs and Wonders • Signs authenticate God’s messenger (John 10:37–38). Here they also judge Egypt’s idols (Exodus 12:12). • Pharaoh’s refusal shows that miracles alone cannot soften a proud heart—faith is still required (Luke 16:31). Staff/Serpent Symbolism • A serpent (cobra) was embroidered on Pharaoh’s crown as a symbol of royal power. When Aaron’s serpent swallows the magicians’ serpents, the message is unmistakable: Israel’s God devours Egypt’s power. • Psalm 74:13–14 later recalls how God “crushed the heads of the monsters,” echoing this act. Egyptian Magicians and Their Limitations • The magicians can replicate the staff-to-serpent and water-to-blood, but they cannot reverse them. Their power is real yet limited. • 2 Timothy 3:8–9 names Jannes and Jambres as two of these men and notes that their folly is exposed. The Nile: Lifeblood of Egypt • Annual flooding left rich silt, making Egypt the breadbasket of the ancient world. • Turning the river to blood attacks the very source of life. In Leviticus 17:11 God says, “the life of the flesh is in the blood,” underscoring how devastating this plague is. Blood in the Nile and Egyptian Deities • Hapi, god of the Nile, was thought to supply life-giving water. Osiris’s bloodstream was poetically linked to the river. The plague exposes these gods as powerless. • Numbers 33:4 reminds Israel that the plagues were “judgments” on Egypt’s gods. Archaeological Insights • Ancient texts like the “Admonitions of Ipuwer” describe the Nile as blood and fish dying—likely poetic, yet demonstrating how such imagery resonated with Egyptians. • Reliefs depict Pharaoh striking enemies with a staff, paralleling Moses striking the Nile, but with opposite outcomes. Connections to Other Scriptures • Revelation 16:3–6 echoes Exodus 7 when seas and rivers turn to blood in the last judgments. • Ezekiel 29:3 calls Pharaoh “the great monster lying in the midst of his rivers,” showing Prophets saw Egypt’s pride mirrored in its waters. • Hebrews 11:24–27 highlights Moses’ faith in opposing Pharaoh, a faith forged in these early confrontations. The Hardened Heart Motif • Exodus alternates between Pharaoh hardening his own heart (7:13, 22) and God hardening it (9:12). Both truths stand: Pharaoh is responsible, and God directs events for His glory (Romans 9:17). • Each refusal sets up a deeper revelation of God’s power, leading to Israel’s deliverance and Egypt’s acknowledgment (Exodus 14:4). Themes for Faith Today • God equips the willing, regardless of age or weakness. • Imitations of divine power exist, but they crumble before the true God. • The Lord confronts whatever we trust more than Him—whether rivers, wealth, or self-rule—and calls for surrender. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 9:17-18 Paul references Pharaoh's hardened heart to illustrate God's sovereign choice and purpose in displaying His power. Psalm 105:26-36 This psalm recounts the plagues in Egypt, emphasizing God's faithfulness in delivering His people. Hebrews 3:7-8 A warning against hardening our hearts, encouraging us to listen to God's voice today. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty and Authority Exodus 7:1-2 highlights God's declaration to Moses, See, I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron will be your prophet. This demonstrates God's authority in appointing His servants to carry out His will. Obedience to God's Command In verses 6-7, Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded them. Their obedience is crucial in the unfolding of God's plan. God's Power Over Nature The first sign, turning the Nile into blood (verses 14-25), illustrates God's control over creation and His ability to disrupt the natural order to achieve His purposes. Pharaoh's Hardened Heart Despite witnessing God's power, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened (verse 13). This sets a pattern of resistance that continues throughout the plagues. Practical Applications Trust in God's Plan Like Moses and Aaron, we are called to trust and obey God's instructions, even when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. Recognize God's Authority Acknowledge God's sovereignty in our lives and the world, understanding that He is in control, even when circumstances seem chaotic. Respond to God's Signs Unlike Pharaoh, who hardened his heart, we should remain open and responsive to God's work in our lives, allowing His signs to lead us to repentance and faith. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central divine figure in the narrative, Yahweh is the God of Israel who commands Moses and Aaron to confront Pharaoh. The Hebrew name used is יְהוָה (YHWH), which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. 2. Moses A prophet and leader of the Israelites, Moses is chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt. In this chapter, he is instructed by God to speak to Pharaoh and perform signs. His Hebrew name is מֹשֶׁה (Mosheh). 3. Aaron The brother of Moses and his spokesperson, Aaron assists Moses in communicating with Pharaoh. He is also a key figure in performing the signs that God commands. His Hebrew name is אַהֲרֹן (Aharon). 4. Pharaoh The ruler of Egypt, Pharaoh is the antagonist in the narrative who refuses to let the Israelites go. His heart is hardened, leading to the plagues that follow. The term "Pharaoh" is derived from the Egyptian title for the king. Places 1. Egypt The central location of the narrative in Exodus 7, where Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh to demand the release of the Israelites. Egypt, known in Hebrew as "Mitzrayim" (מִצְרַיִם), is the land where the Israelites are enslaved and where God demonstrates His power through the plagues. 2. The Nile River Although not explicitly named in Exodus 7, the Nile is implied when Aaron stretches out his hand over the waters of Egypt, turning them into blood. The Nile, a critical water source for Egypt, is referred to in Hebrew as "Ye'or" (יְאוֹר), which means "river" or "stream." Events 1. God Commissions Moses and Aaron God speaks to Moses, telling him that He has made him "like God to Pharaoh," and Aaron will be his prophet (Exodus 7:1). The Hebrew word for "prophet" is נָבִיא (navi), indicating one who speaks on behalf of God. 2. Instructions for Confronting Pharaoh God instructs Moses and Aaron to speak to Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites. God warns that He will harden Pharaoh's heart, allowing Him to multiply His signs and wonders in Egypt (Exodus 7:2-3). 3. God's Purpose Revealed God declares that He will bring judgment on Egypt and that the Egyptians will know He is the LORD when He stretches out His hand against Egypt and brings the Israelites out (Exodus 7:4-5). 4. Moses and Aaron Obey God's Command Moses and Aaron do as the LORD commands them. At this time, Moses is eighty years old, and Aaron is eighty-three (Exodus 7:6-7). 5. Aaron's Staff Becomes a Serpent God instructs Moses and Aaron to perform a miracle before Pharaoh. Aaron throws down his staff before Pharaoh, and it becomes a serpent (Exodus 7:9-10). The Hebrew word for "serpent" is תַּנִּין (tannin), which can also mean a large reptile or sea creature. 6. Pharaoh's Magicians Replicate the Miracle Pharaoh's magicians, using their secret arts, also turn their staffs into serpents. However, Aaron's staff swallows up their staffs, demonstrating God's superior power (Exodus 7:11-12). 7. Pharaoh's Heart is Hardened Despite witnessing the miracle, Pharaoh's heart is hardened, and he refuses to listen to Moses and Aaron, as the LORD had said (Exodus 7:13). 8. The First Plague: Water Turned to Blood God instructs Moses to meet Pharaoh by the Nile River and warn him that the water will be turned to blood if he does not let the Israelites go. Aaron stretches out his staff over the waters of Egypt, and they turn to blood, killing the fish and making the water undrinkable (Exodus 7:14-21). 9. Pharaoh's Magicians Imitate the Plague The magicians of Egypt replicate the turning of water into blood with their secret arts, further hardening Pharaoh's heart (Exodus 7:22). 10. Pharaoh's Continued Refusal Pharaoh remains obstinate and refuses to listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had foretold. The Egyptians are forced to dig around the Nile for drinking water (Exodus 7:23-24). Lessons from Exodus 7 1. God’s Sovereignty Over All Creation In Exodus 7, we see God’s absolute control over the natural world. When Moses and Aaron confront Pharaoh, God turns Aaron’s staff into a serpent, demonstrating His power over creation. This reminds us that "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof" (Psalm 24:1). Trust in God’s sovereignty, knowing that He holds all things in His hands. 2. Obedience Leads to Divine Action Moses and Aaron obey God’s command to speak to Pharaoh, despite the daunting task. Their obedience sets the stage for God’s mighty works. As James 1:22 encourages, "Be doers of the word, and not hearers only." When we act in faith, God moves in powerful ways. 3. God’s Patience with Human Stubbornness Pharaoh’s heart is hardened, yet God continues to give him opportunities to repent. This patience reflects God’s character, as He is "slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and faithfulness" (Exodus 34:6). Let this encourage us to be patient with others, just as God is patient with us. 4. The Importance of Faithful Representation Aaron acts as Moses’ spokesperson, faithfully conveying God’s message. This partnership highlights the importance of representing God accurately in our words and actions. As ambassadors for Christ, we are called to "speak the truth in love" (Ephesians 4:15). 5. God’s Power Over False Gods The plagues begin with the Nile turning to blood, a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods. This demonstrates that "there is no God but one" (1 Corinthians 8:4). In a world full of distractions, remember that God alone is worthy of our worship and trust. 6. The Role of Signs and Wonders God uses signs and wonders to reveal His power and authority. These miracles serve as a testament to His divine nature. As Jesus said, "Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will never believe" (John 4:48). While we may not see the same miracles today, God’s Word continues to reveal His glory. 7. The Hardening of Hearts Pharaoh’s heart is hardened, illustrating the danger of resisting God’s will. Hebrews 3:15 warns, "Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts." Let us remain open to God’s guidance, allowing Him to transform us from within. 8. God’s Purpose in Trials The plagues serve a greater purpose, revealing God’s power and leading to the eventual liberation of His people. Romans 8:28 assures us, "In all things God works for the good of those who love Him." Trust that God can use even the most challenging circumstances for His glory and our growth. 9. The Necessity of Perseverance Moses and Aaron face repeated rejection, yet they persist in their mission. Galatians 6:9 encourages us, "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Perseverance in faith is key to witnessing God’s promises fulfilled. 10. The Ultimate Deliverance Exodus 7 sets the stage for the Israelites’ eventual deliverance, foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance through Christ. As 1 Corinthians 15:57 proclaims, "Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!" Rejoice in the salvation and freedom found in Him. Topics 1. God's Commission to Moses and Aaron God reaffirms His command to Moses and Aaron to speak to Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites. This section emphasizes God's authority and the divine mission given to Moses and Aaron. The Hebrew root for "command" (צָוָה, tsavah) underscores the authoritative nature of God's instructions. 2. Moses and Aaron's Obedience Moses and Aaron demonstrate their obedience to God's command by approaching Pharaoh. This obedience is crucial in the narrative, highlighting the importance of faithfulness to God's directives. 3. God's Hardening of Pharaoh's Heart God declares that He will harden Pharaoh's heart, a theme that recurs throughout the Exodus narrative. The Hebrew word for "harden" (חָזַק, chazaq) suggests strengthening or making firm, indicating God's sovereign control over the situation. 4. The Sign of the Staff Turning into a Serpent Aaron's staff becomes a serpent as a sign to Pharaoh, demonstrating God's power. This miraculous sign is intended to validate Moses and Aaron's message and authority. The Hebrew word for "serpent" (תַּנִּין, tannin) can also mean a large reptile or sea creature, emphasizing the awe-inspiring nature of the miracle. 5. Pharaoh's Magicians Replicate the Miracle Pharaoh's magicians replicate the transformation of staffs into serpents, but Aaron's staff swallows theirs, showcasing the superiority of God's power over Egyptian magic. This event foreshadows the coming plagues and God's ultimate victory. 6. The First Plague: Water Turned to Blood God instructs Moses and Aaron to strike the Nile, turning its waters into blood. This first plague is a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods and a demonstration of God's power over creation. The Hebrew word for "blood" (דָּם, dam) signifies the severity and life-altering impact of the plague. Themes 1. Divine Authority and Commissioning In Exodus 7, God reaffirms His authority and commissions Moses and Aaron to confront Pharaoh. This theme is evident in God's declaration to Moses: "See, I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron will be your prophet" (Exodus 7:1). The Hebrew word for "prophet" (נָבִיא, ^navi^) emphasizes the role of Aaron as a spokesperson for God's divine message. 2. God's Sovereignty Over Creation The theme of God's sovereignty is highlighted through the miraculous signs and wonders that God promises to perform in Egypt. In Exodus 7:3, God says, "But I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and though I will multiply My signs and wonders in the land of Egypt." The Hebrew word for "signs" (אוֹתֹת, ^otot^) and "wonders" (מֹפְתִים, ^mofetim^) underscore God's control over natural and supernatural events. 3. Judgment and Deliverance The narrative introduces the theme of judgment against Egypt and deliverance for Israel. God states His intention to bring judgment upon Egypt: "Then I will lay My hand on Egypt and bring out the divisions of My people the Israelites" (Exodus 7:4). The Hebrew term for "divisions" (צִבְאֹת, ^tzivot^) can also mean "armies," indicating the organized and powerful nature of God's deliverance. 4. The Hardening of Pharaoh's Heart A recurring theme in Exodus is the hardening of Pharaoh's heart, which is mentioned in Exodus 7:3: "But I will harden Pharaoh’s heart." The Hebrew verb used here (חָזַק, ^chazaq^) implies strengthening or making firm, indicating a divine action that ensures Pharaoh's resistance to God's commands. 5. The Power of God's Word The power and effectiveness of God's word are emphasized as Moses and Aaron obey God's command to speak to Pharaoh. In Exodus 7:6, it is written, "So Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded them." The Hebrew root for "commanded" (צָוָה, ^tzavah^) highlights the authoritative nature of God's instructions. 6. Miraculous Signs as a Testimony The transformation of Aaron's staff into a serpent serves as a testimony to God's power. In Exodus 7:10, it states, "Aaron threw his staff down before Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a serpent." The Hebrew word for "serpent" (תַּנִּין, ^tannin^) can also mean a large reptile or sea creature, emphasizing the miraculous nature of the sign. 7. Conflict Between Divine and Human Power The confrontation between Moses and Aaron and the magicians of Egypt illustrates the conflict between divine and human power. In Exodus 7:11-12, the magicians replicate the miracle, but Aaron's staff swallows their staffs, demonstrating the superiority of God's power: "But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs." 8. God's Purpose in Revealing Himself God's actions in Egypt serve the purpose of revealing Himself to both the Israelites and the Egyptians. In Exodus 7:5, God declares, "And the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD when I stretch out My hand against Egypt and bring the Israelites out from among them." The Hebrew name for God, יְהוָה (^YHWH^), is used here, emphasizing His covenantal and self-revealing nature. Prayer Points Pray for a heart of obedience and trust in God's plan, even when it challenges our understanding. Ask for the ability to recognize and submit to God's authority in every aspect of life. Seek a responsive heart that is open to God's signs and willing to change in accordance with His will. Intercede for those who, like Pharaoh, have hardened their hearts against God's truth, that they may come to repentance and faith. Answering Tough Questions 1. Exodus 7:10–12: How could a rod turn into a serpent in a scientifically verifiable sense? 2. Exodus 7:14–18: Is there any historical or archeological evidence of a widespread river turning to blood? 3. Exodus 7:22–24: Why could Egypt’s magicians replicate the plague if it was supposedly divine judgment? 4. Exodus 7:3–4: How can a loving God harden a person’s heart and still hold them accountable? 5. Exodus 7—Overall: Why do no independent ancient records outside the Bible confirm these miraculous plagues? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does God's empowerment of Moses and Aaron reveal about His divine plan for His people's liberation? 2. Why do you think God allowed Pharaoh's heart to harden, and what does this teach us about free will? 3. How does the miracle of Aaron's staff turning into a serpent highlight the superior power of God over Egyptian magic? 4. Why do you think the magicians of Egypt could replicate the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron? 5. How does the first plague of turning the Nile into blood symbolize the impending judgment on Egypt? 6. How does Moses' obedience inspire you in your faith journey? 7. What can we learn from Pharaoh's hardened heart, even in the face of clear miracles and signs? 8. How does the transformation of Aaron's staff into a serpent signify the transformation of Moses' leadership? 9. What would you do if you were in Moses' place, tasked with confronting a stubborn ruler? 10. Why is it significant that the water of the Nile was turned into blood as the first plague? 11. How does the aftermath of the first plague reflect the dire consequences of disobedience to God's command? 12. How does the resilience of the Egyptians in finding alternative sources of water reflect human resistance to recognizing divine signs? 13. What lessons can you apply from this chapter to handle situations of persistent disbelief or opposition in your life? 14. How does this chapter influence your understanding of God's sovereign power over the affairs of nations? 15. How does the story of Pharaoh's stubbornness warn against the dangers of pride and self-sufficiency? 16. How can you apply the lesson of obedience shown by Moses and Aaron in your personal life? 17. Why do you think God chose to perform these miracles before Pharaoh and the Egyptians, and what does it reveal about His character? 18. How does this chapter inspire you to trust in God's plans, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges? 19. How does this chapter enhance your understanding of the struggle between divine power and human resistance? 20. In your present-day life, how would you apply the lessons learned from the consequences of Pharaoh's hardened heart? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions