Exodus 11:8

And all these officials of yours will come and bow before me, saying, 'Go, you and all the people who follow you!' After that, I will depart." And hot with anger, Moses left Pharaoh's presence.

Study Bible

And all these officials of yours
This phrase refers to the Egyptian officials serving under Pharaoh. In Hebrew, the word for "officials" is "עֲבָדֶיךָ" (avadekha), which can also mean servants or ministers. Historically, these officials were powerful figures in Egyptian society, often seen as intermediaries between Pharaoh and the people. Their eventual submission to Moses signifies a dramatic reversal of power, highlighting God's sovereignty over earthly authorities.

will come and bow before me
The act of bowing is a sign of submission and respect. In Hebrew, "bow" is "וְהִשְׁתַּחֲווּ" (vehishtachavu), which implies a deep, reverential prostration. This gesture from the Egyptian officials towards Moses, a Hebrew, underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to elevate His people and humble their oppressors. It is a powerful image of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of God's will.

saying, ‘Go, you and all the people who follow you!’
This command for Moses and the Israelites to leave Egypt is a pivotal moment in the Exodus narrative. The Hebrew word for "go" is "צֵא" (tze), a direct and urgent imperative. It signifies not just a physical departure but a spiritual liberation from bondage. The phrase "all the people who follow you" emphasizes the collective deliverance of the Israelites, fulfilling God's covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

After that, I will depart.”
Moses' declaration of his departure signifies the end of his negotiations with Pharaoh. The Hebrew word for "depart" is "יֵצֵא" (yetze), which can also mean to go out or exit. This marks the conclusion of Moses' role as an intermediary in Pharaoh's court and the beginning of the Israelites' journey to freedom. It is a moment of transition from oppression to the promise of a new life.

And hot with anger, he left Pharaoh’s presence
Moses' anger is described with the Hebrew word "בְּחָרִי־אָף" (bechari-af), literally "burning of the nose," a vivid expression of intense wrath. This righteous anger reflects Moses' frustration with Pharaoh's hardened heart and the suffering of his people. It is a reminder of the emotional and spiritual toll of leadership and the deep passion required to confront injustice. Moses' departure from Pharaoh's presence signifies a final break with the oppressive regime, setting the stage for God's ultimate deliverance of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt. In this verse, Moses is delivering God's final warning to Pharaoh.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart was hardened against letting the Israelites go. He represents the opposition to God's will.

3. Egyptian Officials
These are the servants and advisors of Pharaoh who will eventually acknowledge God's power and plead with Moses to leave Egypt with the Israelites.

4. The Exodus
The event of the Israelites' departure from Egypt, which is a pivotal moment in biblical history, symbolizing deliverance and redemption.

5. God's Judgment
The context of this verse is the impending final plague, the death of the firstborn, which demonstrates God's power and judgment against Egypt.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
Recognize that God is in control, even over the hearts of kings and rulers. His plans will ultimately prevail.

Faith in Action
Like Moses, we are called to act in faith, trusting God's promises even when facing opposition or anger.

Judgment and Mercy
Understand the balance of God's judgment against sin and His mercy towards those who follow Him.

The Power of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands can lead to deliverance and blessing, as seen in the Israelites' eventual freedom.

The Cost of Rebellion
Pharaoh's hardened heart serves as a warning against resisting God's will, which leads to destruction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' response to Pharaoh's hardened heart demonstrate his faith and trust in God?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in our own lives, especially in difficult situations?

3. How does the theme of deliverance in Exodus 11:8 connect to the deliverance offered through Jesus Christ?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Egyptian officials' eventual submission to God's will, and how can this apply to our own lives?

5. How does the account of the Exodus encourage us to remain obedient to God, even when facing opposition or challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The fulfillment of the Exodus as the Israelites leave Egypt, highlighting God's faithfulness to His promises.

Philippians 2:10-11
The theme of every knee bowing, which parallels the Egyptian officials bowing to Moses, foreshadowing the ultimate submission to Christ.

Hebrews 11:27
Moses' faith is highlighted, showing his trust in God despite Pharaoh's resistance.

Romans 9:17
Paul references Pharaoh to illustrate God's sovereignty and purpose in hardening hearts for His glory.

Revelation 15:3-4
The song of Moses and the Lamb, celebrating God's righteous acts and judgments.