Definition: And that thou mayest tell in the ears of thy son, and of thy son’s son, what things I have wrought in Egypt, and my signs which I have done among them; that ye may know how that I [am] the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 10:2. It’s a really important passage about God’s plan and his power. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is telling Moses to tell everyone – including future generations – about the incredible things he has done in Egypt. He wants them to understand how powerful and mighty he is. Let’s unpack it word by word: “And that thou mayest tell in the ears of thy son, and of thy son’s son…” This means God is giving this information to his descendants , meaning all future generations after him. It's like a legacy – a story passed down through time. "...what things I have wrought in Egypt..." This refers to the events that happened in Egypt when Pharaoh enslaved his people. We know about the pyramids, the massacres of the Israelites, and the overall oppression. "...and my signs which I have done among them;" This is a bit more figurative. "Signs" here means remarkable or powerful deeds. God is describing things he did that were so impressive and significant that they would be noticeable to everyone. “that ye may know how that I [am] the LORD.” This is the core of the verse – God is asserting his identity as the Lord. It’s a declaration of who he is and what he's capable of doing. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse is essentially a statement of God’s sovereignty and power. It tells us: God is in control: He has complete authority over Egypt, and he’s not afraid to use his power to achieve his goals. His actions are significant: He’s created a powerful situation, and he’s demonstrating his strength through his deeds. It's important for future generations: God is leaving behind a record of his actions so that people can learn from them and understand his plan. Think of it like this: It’s like a historical record – a story about God’s power, and a reminder of what He can do. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this passage to other biblical stories?

Definition: But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, so that he would not let the children of Israel go.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 10:20. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic passage about God’s plan for the Israelites. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God decided to make things difficult for the Israelites to leave Egypt. Let’s unpack that a little bit: “But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart…” – This is key. The Bible says God changed Pharaoh's mind. He wasn't just giving in; he deliberately made it so that Pharaoh wouldn't let them go. It was like a switch being flipped – a stubborn, defensive mindset. “…so that he would not let the children of Israel go.” - This is what happened. Pharaoh refused to release the Israelites, even when they pleaded with him to do so. He didn’t allow them to leave Egypt. What does this tell us about God's plan? This verse shows that God was working behind the scenes to make things difficult for Pharaoh. It’s a part of a larger story – God's plan was always to free the Israelites from slavery, even if it meant challenging Pharaoh’s authority. It's a moment of intense testing. It highlights God's power and his determination to protect His people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the story of Exodus 10:20?

Definition: And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, even darkness [which] may be felt.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Exodus 10:21. It’s a really significant and dramatic verse that speaks about God’s plan to deliver his people from slavery. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is telling Moses to actively summon darkness over Egypt. He wants to create an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, so that the Egyptians can't continue to enslave their people. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the LORD said unto Moses…” : This establishes God as the one in charge and initiating a significant action. “…Stretch out thine hand toward heaven…” : Moses is instructed to reach upwards, towards the sky. It's not just a simple gesture; it’s a deliberate act of calling upon something greater than himself. “That there may be darkness over the land of Egypt…” : This is the core of the verse. God wants to create a period of “darkness” – literally, a state of shadow and uncertainty – in Egypt. “…even darkness [which] may be felt.” : This is where it gets really powerful. The darkness isn’t just seen ; it's felt . It’s a pervasive feeling of fear and anxiety that will spread throughout the land. What does this mean in context? The Israelites were enslaved: This verse describes a crucial moment when God decided to free his people from slavery, which had been happening for 40 years. God’s plan of liberation: It's a powerful demonstration of God's power and determination to bring about deliverance. It’s a sign that his plan is moving forward. A moment of crisis: The verse implies a time of great anxiety and potential danger for the Egyptians, as they are unprepared for this sudden shift in the situation. Overall Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a prelude to God's mighty flood – which he will later use to destroy the Egyptian gods and repeat his deliverance. It’s a moment of intense divine action designed to change the course of history. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Exodus 10? Discuss the symbolism behind darkness in this context? Provide a more detailed explanation of why this verse is so important in biblical interpretation?

Definition: And Moses stretched forth his hand toward heaven; and there was a thick darkness in all the land of Egypt three days:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 10:22. It’s a really significant moment in the story of God’s plan to deliver His people from slavery. Here's what it means, explained simply: Basically, it says that after Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, God decided to actively try to stop them from escaping. Let’s unpack it a bit more: “And Moses stretched forth his hand toward heaven…” – This is a dramatic image. It means Moses was reaching up, as if trying to catch something that was flying away. He was hoping to stop the Israelites from running into the sea or escaping the Pharaoh's control. "...and there was a thick darkness in all the land of Egypt three days:” – This is the core of the verse. The land of Egypt becomes completely dark. It’s like a blanket of shadow falls over everything. It wasn’t just a little bit dark; it was deeply dark. So, what does this darkness mean? The Bible describes it as a period of intense fear and uncertainty for the Egyptians. They were terrified that the Israelites would escape. This darkness represents: Fear & Anxiety: The Egyptians were gripped by worry about their safety. A Sense of Uncertainty: They weren’t sure what would happen, which created chaos. God's Presence: It symbolizes God being very present and watching over his people. Why did God do this? The Bible says it was because God wanted to show His power and control over the Israelites. He wasn’t just passively watching; he was actively intervening to protect them. In short, Exodus 10:22 is a powerful snapshot of God's intervention in a crucial moment – He is actively trying to stop the Israelites from escaping. --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any aspect of this passage? For example, would you like to know: What’s the context surrounding this verse? Why was this action significant for God?

Definition: They saw not one another, neither rose any from his place for three days: but all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 10:23. It’s a really striking and important verse that describes a moment of profound stillness and change. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, the Israelites were completely isolated and without anyone. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening: “They saw not one another…” : This suggests a separation between the Israelites and the Egyptians. They weren’t interacting or even being near each other. “…neither rose any from his place…” : This is key. “His place” refers to the Pharaoh's palace – where he lived and ruled. The Egyptians were in charge of the Israelites, and they were completely absent from that space. “for three days…” : This is the longest pause in the story. It’s a long period of nothing happening. “…all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings” : This is the surprising part! The Israelites were inside their homes, and they were bathed in sunlight. It's like they were completely shielded from the sun, even within their own houses. What does this mean symbolically? The story of this isolation and darkness is often interpreted as a sign that God was preparing for a dramatic event – the Exodus. It represents: God’s Protection: The darkness symbolizes a period of intense protection and divine intervention. A Test of Faith: It's a moment where the Israelites needed to be shielded from temptation and evil, allowing them to focus on God's will. A Preparation for Freedom: The darkness is a prelude to a time when God would bring freedom and deliverance to his people. In short, it’s a powerful image of divine protection and a moment of stillness that precedes a significant shift in history. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part of the verse further? Provide context about the story of Exodus 10:23?

Definition: And Pharaoh called unto Moses, and said, Go ye, serve the LORD; only let your flocks and your herds be stayed: let your little ones also go with you.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 10:24. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling verse about God’s plan for the Israelites in Egypt. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, God is telling Pharaoh to protect the Israelites. Here’s a breakdown of each part: “And Pharaoh called unto Moses…” : This means God is speaking directly to Pharaoh, the Egyptian ruler. “…and said, Go ye, serve the LORD; only let your flocks and your herds be stayed:” This is the core instruction. God is telling Pharaoh to command the Israelites to stop moving around freely. He’s instructing him to prioritize protecting them. “Serve the Lord” means to worship and obey God's will. “…let your little ones also go with you.” : This is a crucial part. It implies that Pharaoh needs to be aware of the Israelites’ safety, especially their children. It’s a gentle but firm request for them to stay with him. What does this mean in bigger picture terms? This verse speaks to a dramatic and unsettling moment in the story of the Exodus. God is actively intervening to prevent Egypt from mistreating or harming His chosen people. Pharaoh, who was initially hesitant to allow the Israelites to leave, was ultimately persuaded by God's command to protect them. It sets the stage for a significant shift in the narrative – the Israelites will eventually escape Egypt and become a nation blessed by God. Context is key: The verse comes after Pharaoh has already allowed the Israelites to wander freely across the desert. This is a moment where God’s power is being demonstrated, and Pharaoh is starting to realize the seriousness of the situation. In short, it's about God protecting his people from harm. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in more detail?

Definition: And Moses said, Thou must give us also sacrifices and burnt offerings, that we may sacrifice unto the LORD our God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 10:25. It’s a really important part of how God dealt with the Israelites after they left Egypt. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is telling Moses to do something: “Thou must give us also sacrifices and burnt offerings.” This means he needs specific items – like animal blood and incense – that God would offer up as a sign of worship and devotion. Why did God ask this? To keep him holy: God wanted to ensure that Moses was completely dedicated to Him and that his actions were always focused on Him. Offering sacrifices was a way for Moses to show that he was devoted to the Lord. To honor the covenant: The covenant between God and Israel (a promise made long ago) was a sacred agreement. Offering sacrifices was seen as a way to keep this agreement alive and demonstrate faith. It's not about giving something to us; it’s about showing our devotion. Important Note: This verse is often misunderstood. It doesn’t mean God wants us to sacrifice animals for our own benefit or to appease him. Instead, it’s a symbolic act of worship and commitment that shows we love and trust Him. Do you want me to explain any of this in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse within the larger story of the Exodus? Talk about why these sacrifices were so important to the Israelites in their early years?

Definition: Our cattle also shall go with us; there shall not an hoof be left behind; for thereof must we take to serve the LORD our God; and we know not with what we must serve the LORD, until we come thither.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 10:26. It’s a really important passage about obedience and the Israelites’ journey into the wilderness. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that the Israelites are going to be taken care of by God, and they don't need to worry about anything – including their livestock – remaining behind. They’re essentially being given a “job” or responsibility solely for serving God. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Our cattle also shall go with us; there shall not an hoof be left behind…” This means the Israelites' animals (their herds) will stay with them, and they won’t have any remaining livestock left over. It suggests a complete focus on God's needs. “…for thereof must we take to serve the LORD our God; and we know not with what we must serve the LORD, until we come thither.” This is the key part. “Therefor” means "because of this." The Israelites are being told they must dedicate themselves entirely to serving God. The phrase “until we come thither” means “until we reach our destination.” They’re essentially being entrusted with a monumental task – to completely focus on worshipping and obeying God. What does this mean in practical terms? It speaks to the Israelites' experience leading up to their forty-year journey into the wilderness. They were instructed to leave behind everything they had, including their livestock, so they could dedicate themselves fully to God’s presence and work. This was a strategic move by Moses – to ensure they wouldn’t be distracted or tempted to do anything but worship. In essence, this verse is about absolute obedience and a complete shift in focus to serve God. It’s a powerful statement of trust and the importance of dedicating oneself entirely to God's will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the passage? Discuss the significance of this verse within the context of the Old Testament? Offer a related story or example?

Definition: But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not let them go.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 10:27. It’s a really significant passage that speaks about God’s plan to deliver the Israelites out of Egypt. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Before Exodus 10:27, Pharaoh was controlling the Israelites. He was essentially ruling them and preventing them from leaving Egypt. He wanted to keep them enslaved. God decided to intervene. God knew that the Israelites were too powerful to be left in bondage. So, he started subtly working behind the scenes – planting seeds of doubt and challenging Pharaoh’s authority. Pharaoh resisted God's plan. He stubbornly refused to let the Israelites go, even when God told him it was necessary for their freedom. He was stubborn and unwilling to listen. What happened next? Exodus 10:27 tells us that God changed Pharaoh’s heart . It wasn’t just a simple change; he became determined to keep the Israelites captive. He hardened his heart – meaning he became even more resistant to listening to God's guidance. It was like a protective shield being put in place, making it harder for the Israelites to escape. What does it mean? God’s Sovereignty: It shows that God is in control of events and doesn't give up easily. Opposition to Freedom: It highlights a struggle between Pharaoh's will and God's will – he wanted to keep the Israelites enslaved, but God desired their freedom. A Test of Faith: It’s like a test for the Israelites. They had to demonstrate faith and obedience to God, even when it was difficult. In short, this verse describes a moment where God actively changed Pharaoh's mind so he would not allow the Israelites to leave Egypt. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about why this event is important in the story of Israel’s Exodus?

Definition: And Pharaoh said unto him, Get thee from me, take heed to thyself, see my face no more; for in [that] day thou seest my face thou shalt die.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 10:28. It's a really powerful and dramatic passage about God’s plan for the Israelites. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Pharaoh is telling Moses to stop commanding the Israelites to worship him. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Pharaoh said unto him…” : This establishes who's speaking – God. “…Get thee from me, take heed to thyself, see my face no more; for in that day thou shalt die.” : This is the core of the verse. It’s a warning. Pharaoh is urging Moses to stop giving the Israelites special treatment and to cease worshipping him. He wants them to recognize God as the supreme ruler. The phrase “see my face” means to directly see God, which is a very serious thing in Jewish tradition. The "day that thou shalt die" is a death sentence – meaning he’ll die if he doesn't stop this behavior. What's the bigger picture? This verse is part of a larger story about God’s plan to deliver his people from slavery in Egypt. It’s a crucial moment where God decides to actively intervene and bring about the Exodus – the liberation of the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. It's a dramatic warning that shows God’s power and judgment. Why is this important? It demonstrates God's sovereignty: He isn’t just watching from afar; he’s directly controlling events to achieve his purpose. It foreshadows the Exodus story: This verse is a key part of what leads to the Israelites escaping Egypt and entering the Promised Land. It highlights God’s judgment: It shows that disobedience and defiance will have consequences, even for powerful leaders. In short, this verse is a warning from God about a dangerous situation – Pharaoh's refusal to acknowledge God's authority, and the potential for terrible consequences for Israel. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context of this event? Discuss what it means for the Israelites to disobey God?