Exodus 11:6

Then a great cry will go out over all the land of Egypt. Such an outcry has never been heard before and will never be heard again.

Study Bible

Then a great cry
The phrase "a great cry" in Hebrew is "צְעָקָה גְּדוֹלָה" (tzeakah gedolah). This expression conveys an intense outpouring of grief and despair. Historically, cries of lamentation were common in ancient Near Eastern cultures during times of profound loss or disaster. The "great cry" here signifies the magnitude of the impending judgment on Egypt, highlighting the severity of the final plague. It is a cry that echoes the earlier cries of the Israelites under oppression, now mirrored in the anguish of their oppressors.

will go out
The Hebrew verb "יֵצֵא" (yetze) means "to go out" or "to come forth." This suggests that the cry will not be contained but will spread throughout the land, affecting every household. The use of this verb emphasizes the pervasive nature of the judgment and the inescapable reality of God's power and justice being manifested across Egypt.

over all the land of Egypt
The phrase "over all the land of Egypt" underscores the comprehensive scope of the plague's impact. Egypt, a powerful and vast empire, is depicted as being entirely under the influence of this divine act. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to execute His will across the entire earth, regardless of human power or resistance.

such as never has been
This phrase indicates the unprecedented nature of the event. The Hebrew "אֲשֶׁר לֹא נִהְיָה כָּמֹהוּ" (asher lo nihyah kamohu) suggests a unique occurrence in history. It highlights the extraordinary nature of God's intervention, setting this event apart from any other calamity or judgment that had previously befallen Egypt. This serves to magnify the seriousness of the situation and the divine authority behind it.

nor ever will be again
The concluding phrase "nor ever will be again" in Hebrew "וְכָמֹהוּ לֹא תֹסִף" (vekamoho lo tosif) emphasizes the singularity and finality of this judgment. It assures that this event is a one-time divine act of retribution that will not be repeated. This serves as a powerful testament to the ultimate justice of God, who acts decisively in history to fulfill His purposes and deliver His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He is the one delivering God's message to Pharaoh.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who has hardened his heart against God’s command to let the Israelites go, leading to the plagues.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved. It is the setting for the plagues and the impending judgment of God.

4. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments sent by God upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. The verse refers to the final and most severe plague, the death of the firstborn.

5. The Israelites
God's chosen people, enslaved in Egypt, awaiting deliverance through God's mighty acts.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God is in control of history and events. The plagues demonstrate His power over creation and His authority over nations.

The Consequences of Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's warnings led to devastating consequences. We must be sensitive to God's voice and responsive to His guidance.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
God's judgment is real and serves as a warning to turn from sin. The severity of the plagues underscores the seriousness of disobedience.

God's Deliverance and Protection
While Egypt faced judgment, God provided a means of protection for His people through the Passover. This foreshadows Christ's sacrifice for our deliverance.

The Call to Repentance
The plagues serve as a call to repentance, reminding us of the need to align our lives with God's will and seek His mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the plagues in Egypt challenge or affirm your understanding of God's sovereignty and justice?

2. In what ways can the hardness of Pharaoh's heart serve as a warning for us today in our personal walk with God?

3. How does the concept of divine judgment in Exodus 11:6 relate to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What parallels can you draw between the Passover in Exodus and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ? How does this understanding impact your faith?

5. How can we apply the lessons of God's deliverance and protection in Exodus to our current life situations and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
This chapter describes the Passover, which is directly connected to the events of Exodus 11:6, as it provides the instructions for the Israelites to avoid the final plague.

Matthew 24:21
Jesus speaks of a future time of great tribulation, drawing a parallel to the unprecedented suffering described in Exodus 11:6.

Revelation 16
The plagues in Revelation echo the plagues of Egypt, showing God's judgment and the call for repentance.