Exodus 10:21

Then the LORD said to Moses, "Stretch out your hand toward heaven, so that darkness may spread over the land of Egypt--a palpable darkness."

Study Bible

Then the LORD said to Moses
This phrase underscores the direct communication between God and Moses, a central theme in the narrative of Exodus. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel. This divine instruction highlights God's sovereignty and His active role in the deliverance of His people. Historically, this interaction reflects the unique position of Moses as a prophet and leader, chosen to mediate God's will to both the Israelites and the Egyptians.

Stretch out your hand
The act of stretching out one's hand is symbolic of authority and divine power. In the context of the plagues, it signifies Moses acting as God's instrument to execute judgment. The Hebrew verb "natah" (to stretch out) conveys an intentional and authoritative action. This gesture is not merely physical but represents the extension of God's will and power over creation, reinforcing the theme of divine intervention in human affairs.

toward the sky
The sky, or "shamayim" in Hebrew, is often associated with the realm of God and His heavenly authority. By directing Moses to stretch his hand toward the sky, the narrative emphasizes the origin of the forthcoming plague as divine rather than natural. This act serves as a reminder of God's dominion over the heavens and the earth, contrasting the impotence of the Egyptian gods who were believed to control natural phenomena.

so that darkness spreads over the land of Egypt
Darkness in this context is not merely the absence of light but a tangible manifestation of divine judgment. The Hebrew word "choshek" for darkness can also imply chaos and disorder, reminiscent of the primordial darkness before creation. This plague directly challenges the Egyptian sun god, Ra, demonstrating the superiority of YHWH over the Egyptian pantheon. Historically, this would have been a profound and terrifying experience for the Egyptians, whose daily life and religious practices were centered around the sun.

a darkness that can be felt
This phrase suggests an intense, oppressive darkness, one that transcends the physical and affects the spiritual and emotional state of the people. The Hebrew implies a darkness so thick and pervasive that it becomes a palpable presence. This serves as a metaphor for the spiritual blindness and moral darkness of Egypt, which stands in stark contrast to the light of God's truth and presence with Israel. Theologically, it foreshadows the ultimate separation from God that sin brings, a darkness that only His light can dispel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who is demonstrating His power and sovereignty over Egypt and its gods through the plagues.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egyptian bondage.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, ruled by Pharaoh, and the setting for the plagues.

4. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against letting the Israelites go, despite the plagues.

5. The Plague of Darkness
The ninth plague sent by God, characterized by a profound darkness that covered Egypt for three days.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Creation
The plague of darkness demonstrates God's absolute control over the natural world. Just as He created light, He can also command darkness.

The Reality of Spiritual Darkness
The physical darkness in Egypt symbolizes spiritual darkness. Without God, people live in a state of spiritual blindness and separation from the truth.

The Hardening of Hearts
Pharaoh's continued resistance despite the plagues illustrates the danger of a hardened heart. We must remain open to God's voice and guidance.

The Light of Christ
In contrast to the darkness of Egypt, Jesus is the Light of the World. Believers are called to walk in His light and reflect it to others.

Trust in God's Deliverance
Just as God delivered the Israelites from Egypt, He delivers us from the darkness of sin through Jesus Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the plague of darkness in Egypt reflect God's power and authority over creation?

2. In what ways can spiritual darkness manifest in our lives today, and how can we combat it with the light of Christ?

3. What are some signs of a hardened heart, and how can we ensure our hearts remain receptive to God's will?

4. How does the theme of light versus darkness in Exodus connect to the New Testament portrayal of Jesus as the Light of the World?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance from a difficult situation. How can this account encourage others who are facing their own "darkness"?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1
The creation account where God separates light from darkness, highlighting His control over both.

John 1
The introduction of Jesus as the Light of the World, contrasting spiritual light with darkness.

Psalm 105
A recounting of the plagues, including the darkness, as a demonstration of God's power and faithfulness to His covenant.

Revelation 16
The plagues in Revelation echo the plagues of Egypt, symbolizing God's judgment and ultimate victory over evil.