Introduction:
Pharaoh's response to Moses and Aaron is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative of the Exodus. This response is characterized by a series of interactions between Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, and Moses, the leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from bondage. The account is primarily found in the Book of Exodus, chapters 5 through 14, and it highlights themes of divine sovereignty, human obstinacy, and the fulfillment of God's promises.

Initial Encounter:
The initial encounter between Moses, Aaron, and Pharaoh is recorded in Exodus 5:1-2. Moses and Aaron approach Pharaoh with a divine mandate: "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'Let My people go, so that they may hold a feast to Me in the wilderness.'" Pharaoh's response is dismissive and defiant: "Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and I will not let Israel go" . This response sets the stage for the ensuing conflict between Pharaoh's hardened heart and God's unyielding will.

The Hardening of Pharaoh's Heart:
A recurring theme in the narrative is the hardening of Pharaoh's heart. This hardening is mentioned multiple times, with variations indicating that Pharaoh hardened his own heart (Exodus 8:15, 32) and that God hardened Pharaoh's heart (Exodus 9:12; 10:20, 27). This duality underscores the interplay between human free will and divine sovereignty. Pharaoh's obstinacy serves to magnify God's power and glory, as each refusal leads to a demonstration of God's might through the plagues.

The Ten Plagues:
Pharaoh's response to the plagues is a cycle of temporary repentance followed by renewed defiance. After each plague, Pharaoh either promises to let the Israelites go or negotiates terms, only to renege once the plague is lifted. For instance, after the plague of frogs, Pharaoh entreats Moses to pray for their removal, promising to release the Israelites (Exodus 8:8). However, once relief comes, Pharaoh hardens his heart again (Exodus 8:15).

The Final Plague and Release:
The culmination of Pharaoh's resistance is the tenth plague, the death of the firstborn. This devastating event finally compels Pharaoh to release the Israelites. In Exodus 12:31-32, Pharaoh summons Moses and Aaron by night and says, "Get up, leave my people, both you and the Israelites! Go, worship the LORD as you have requested. Take your flocks and herds as you have said, and depart! And bless me also" . This response, born out of desperation and fear, marks the temporary submission of Pharaoh to God's will.

Pursuit and Destruction:
Despite his initial acquiescence, Pharaoh's heart is hardened once more, leading him to pursue the Israelites with his army (Exodus 14:5-9). This pursuit results in the miraculous parting of the Red Sea, where the Israelites cross on dry ground, and the subsequent destruction of Pharaoh's forces as the waters return (Exodus 14:26-28). Pharaoh's final response is one of ultimate defeat, illustrating the futility of resisting God's sovereign plan.

Theological Implications:
Pharaoh's response throughout the Exodus narrative serves as a profound illustration of the consequences of pride and disobedience against God. It highlights the reality of divine judgment and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. The account also emphasizes God's power to deliver and redeem, foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ. Pharaoh's hardened heart stands as a warning against the dangers of resisting God's will and the inevitable triumph of His purposes.