Exodus 8:9

Moses said to Pharaoh, "You may have the honor over me. When shall I pray for you and your officials and your people that the frogs (except for those in the Nile) may be taken away from you and your houses?"

Study Bible

Moses said to Pharaoh
This phrase highlights the direct communication between Moses, the chosen leader of the Israelites, and Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) implies a declaration or command, indicating Moses' authoritative role as God's spokesperson. Historically, this interaction underscores the tension between divine authority and earthly power, as Moses confronts Pharaoh with God's demands.

You may have the honor over me
The phrase "have the honor" (הִתְפָּאֵר, hithpa'er) can be understood as allowing Pharaoh to set the terms or timing of the request. This is a strategic move by Moses, showing humility and respect, yet it also serves to demonstrate God's power over the Egyptian deities. By allowing Pharaoh to choose the timing, Moses ensures that the miraculous nature of the plague's removal will be undeniable.

When shall I pray for you
The act of prayer (פָּלַל, palal) here is significant, as it represents intercession. Moses, as a mediator, offers to pray on behalf of Pharaoh, his officials, and his people. This highlights the role of prayer in seeking divine intervention and mercy. It also reflects the biblical principle that God listens to the prayers of His faithful servants.

and your officials and your people
This phrase emphasizes the widespread impact of the plagues, affecting not just Pharaoh but all levels of Egyptian society. The inclusion of "officials" (עֲבָדֶיךָ, avadekha) and "people" (עַמְּךָ, ammekha) indicates that the consequences of Pharaoh's hardened heart extend beyond himself, affecting the entire nation. It serves as a reminder of the communal nature of sin and its repercussions.

that the frogs be removed from you and your houses
The plague of frogs was a direct challenge to the Egyptian goddess Heqet, who was associated with fertility and depicted as a frog. The removal of the frogs (סוּר, sur) signifies God's power over Egyptian deities and His ability to control nature. The mention of "houses" (בָּתֵּיכֶם, bateikhem) underscores the personal and domestic disruption caused by the plague, affecting daily life and comfort.

and remain only in the Nile
The Nile River was the lifeblood of Egypt, central to its agriculture and economy. By stating that the frogs would "remain only in the Nile," Moses indicates a return to natural order, where the frogs belong. This phrase highlights God's sovereignty in restoring balance and His mercy in sparing Egypt from further chaos. It also serves as a testament to God's control over creation, reinforcing the message that He alone is the true God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. He acts as God's spokesperson to Pharaoh.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who is obstinate and refuses to let the Israelites go, despite the plagues sent by God.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved and where God demonstrates His power through the plagues.

4. Frogs
The second plague sent by God upon Egypt, which covered the land and became a significant nuisance to the Egyptians.

5. Aaron
Moses' brother, who assists him in confronting Pharaoh and performing signs and wonders as commanded by God.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
The plagues, including the frogs, demonstrate God's control over nature and His ability to use it to fulfill His purposes.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's command through Moses highlights the danger of a hardened heart against God's will.

Intercession and Prayer
Moses' role in interceding for Pharaoh when asked to remove the frogs shows the power and importance of intercessory prayer.

God's Timing
Moses allows Pharaoh to choose the time for the frogs' removal, illustrating God's willingness to demonstrate His power in a way that leaves no doubt about His sovereignty.

Repentance and Obedience
The plagues serve as a call to repentance and obedience, reminding us of the consequences of ignoring God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the plague of frogs in Exodus 8:9 demonstrate God's power and authority over creation? Consider how this might apply to situations in your life where you need to trust in God's sovereignty.

2. In what ways does Pharaoh's response to the plagues reflect a hardened heart, and how can we guard against similar attitudes in our own lives?

3. How does Moses' intercession for Pharaoh illustrate the role of prayer in our relationship with God and others? Can you think of a situation where you can intercede for someone else?

4. What does the timing of the removal of the frogs teach us about God's willingness to work within human decisions and requests? How can this understanding affect your prayer life?

5. How do the plagues as a whole serve as a call to repentance and obedience? Reflect on areas in your life where God might be calling you to change or obey more fully.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7:14-25
This passage describes the first plague, turning the Nile into blood, setting the stage for the subsequent plagues, including the frogs.

Psalm 78:45
This psalm recounts the plagues of Egypt, including the frogs, as a demonstration of God's power and judgment.

Revelation 16:13
Frogs are mentioned symbolically in the context of end-times plagues, drawing a parallel to the plagues of Egypt.