Definition: Then the LORD said unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh, and tell him, Thus saith the LORD God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may serve me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 9:1. It’s a really significant passage about God’s plan to free His people from slavery. Here’s a simple explanation: Basically, it means: “God tells Moses to go to Pharaoh and tell him that His people are enslaved and that He wants them to be free.” Let's unpack it further: “Then the LORD said unto Moses…” – This establishes God as the one initiating this action. It’s a command from above. “…Go in unto Pharaoh…” – This is a very direct instruction. Moses is being told to travel to Pharaoh, who was the ruler of Egypt at the time. “…and tell him…” – This emphasizes that Moses needs to deliver this message to Pharaoh. “Thus saith the LORD God of the Hebrews…” - This is a poetic way of saying it’s a divine word – a direct statement from God. It adds a bit of weight and importance to what's about to happen. “…Let my people go, that they may serve me.” – This is the core of the message. God is asking Pharaoh to allow His people to be free, so they can worship Him . What’s the significance? This verse is often considered a key moment in Jewish history because it's believed to be the beginning of the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. It’s a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the Exodus story – the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of slavery and into their promised land. Important Note: It's important to understand this verse within its historical context. Pharaoh was a powerful ruler who had enslaved many people, including Egyptians. This event is seen as a sign of God’s favor and a demonstration of His power. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant? Talk about the Exodus story in more detail?

Definition: And they took ashes of the furnace, and stood before Pharaoh; and Moses sprinkled it up toward heaven; and it became a boil breaking forth [with] blains upon man, and upon beast.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 9:10. It’s a really significant passage in the Bible that deals with a powerful act of God and its consequences. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: God is angry: The verse starts with God being incredibly upset because the Israelites weren’t obeying his commands to follow him. They offer a sacrifice: The Israelites were about to offer a sacrifice to Moses, who was their leader. A strange thing happens: Instead of the sacrifice going up into the sky, it transformed into a massive, spreading boil – like a giant rash or infection – on people and animals. These boils were bright red with white stripes (blains). Let's unpack the details: “They took ashes of the furnace…” : This means they used a special kind of ash, likely made from a fire, to cover the sacrifice. It was a symbolic act – representing God’s judgment and covering over their sins. “…and stood before Pharaoh…” : Moses is being sent by God to confront Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. “Moses sprinkled it up toward heaven” : This is crucial! Moses was actively directing the ashes towards the sky. It's a powerful image - he’s trying to cleanse the land and people of their disobedience. “…and it became a boil breaking forth [with] blains upon man, and upon beast.” : This is the key part! The ash transformed into a massive, spreading boil. The word "blains" means bright red with white stripes – it’s a very vivid description of the appearance of these boils. It shows a widespread affliction. It also says that this “boil” was affecting all people and animals – not just the Israelites. What does this mean? This is often interpreted as a symbol of God's judgment on humanity’s disobedience and wickedness. It highlights: God's Sovereignty: He is in control, even over seemingly small things like a boil. Divine Punishment: It’s a consequence of rejecting God’s will. Judgment & Cleansing: The act was meant to cleanse the land and people from their evil ways. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse is debated among theologians, but it's generally understood as a dramatic illustration of God's power and his judgment against humanity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss the symbolism behind the "blains"? Or perhaps offer a different perspective on its meaning?

Definition: And the magicians could not stand before Moses because of the boils; for the boil was upon the magicians, and upon all the Egyptians.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 9:11. It's a really interesting story about a powerful group of magicians in ancient Egypt! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: The Magicians Were Sick: The verses describe that the magicians, who were known for their magic and trickery, were suffering from a terrible illness – boils. It Affected Them All: This wasn't just a few people; the boils spread across everyone in Egypt. It was a widespread problem affecting everyone, even the powerful magicians. What’s the Big Deal? This verse highlights a significant point: God’s power is stronger than any trickery. The magicians were trying to create a miracle – to make water turn into blood – but God intervened and stopped them from succeeding. Why is this important? God's Authority: It shows that God is in control, and He doesn’t tolerate those who try to defy His will through their own efforts. Divine Protection: It’s a reminder that God protects people from harm, even when they are trying to do something difficult or seemingly miraculous. In short, the verse emphasizes that God's presence and power are greater than any trickery. It’s a story about divine intervention and protection against harmful magic. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Tell you more about the historical context of this story?

Definition: And the LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh, and he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had spoken unto Moses.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 9:12. It’s a really important and slightly unsettling passage in the Bible. Here's an explanation in simple terms: What it says: “And the LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh, and he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had spoken unto Moses.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “The LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh…” – This means God showed Pharaoh a vision. Think of it like a dream or an intense feeling that something bad is going to happen. God isn't actively doing anything, but He’s making Pharaoh very resistant and unwilling to listen to what He tells him. “…and he hearkened not unto them…” – This is the key part. Pharaoh didn’t obey God’s instructions. He continued to ignore the warnings and commands given to him by Moses. “As the LORD had spoken unto Moses…” – This connects it back to a previous event. God has already told Moses what to do – to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. This verse says that God’s message is still relevant, and Pharaoh isn't listening. So, what does this mean in practical terms? It suggests a situation where someone or something is deliberately resisting God's will. It’s about stubbornness and opposition. It’s like a wall being built up to stop the flow of something important. Why is this significant? This verse is often seen as a warning against disobedience and rebellion. It shows that even when we are trying to do what's right, we can sometimes be stubborn and push away God's guidance. It’s a reminder that God’s will is ultimately supreme. In short: Pharaoh was resisting God’s instructions, and God is making it very difficult for him to comply. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the why behind this passage (its historical context)? Talk about how this verse relates to other stories in the Bible?

Definition: And the LORD said unto Moses, Rise up early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may serve me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 9:13. It’s a pretty significant passage about God’s plan to liberate his people. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is saying, “I want my people – the Israelites – to be free.” He’s setting up a plan to do that. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the LORD said unto Moses…” : This establishes God as the one in charge and giving instructions. “…Rise up early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh…” : This tells us when this action needs to happen – right at dawn. It’s a specific time and place. “…and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may serve me.” : This is the core of the message. What does it really mean? It means that God wants to free his people from a difficult and oppressive situation – slavery. He’s giving Moses (a leader) a command to tell Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, to let his people go. The idea is that this liberation is a sign of God's favor and a way for his people to return to Him. Why was this verse important? This event is considered a key moment in Jewish history. It’s often seen as a pivotal point when the Israelites began their journey out of Egypt. It highlights God’s power, his desire for relationship with his people, and ultimately, his plan for redemption. In short: God is setting up a plan to free his people from slavery, and this verse marks the beginning of that process. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Exodus 9:13? Discuss the significance of this event in Jewish history?

Definition: For I will at this time send all my plagues upon thine heart, and upon thy servants, and upon thy people; that thou mayest know that [there is] none like me in all the earth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 9:14. It’s a really powerful and dramatic statement about God's judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is going to unleash a lot of terrible things upon people – specifically their hearts, their servants, and their people. He wants us to understand how incredibly awful this can be. Let’s look at each part: “For I will at this time send all my plagues…” - This is the core of the message: God is going to use a series of devastating events to punish people. "Plagues" in this context means severe, often deadly illnesses and disasters. “…upon thine heart.” – This refers to God’s judgment directly impacting our emotional well-being - our hearts. It's about pain, suffering, and despair. “…and upon thy servants…” – This highlights that the punishment won’t just be directed at people; it will also affect those who work for or depend on others. “…and upon thy people.” – This means the punishment will impact the entire community of Israel. “That thou mayest know that [there is] none like me in all the earth.” - This is the most important part. God is declaring that no one has experienced a punishment this severe and impactful, across the whole world. It’s a statement of absolute power and uniqueness. What does it mean practically? The verse paints a picture of a moment when God is utterly enraged by human wickedness and sin. It suggests: A terrible reckoning: This isn't just about some minor inconvenience; this is a complete and utter destruction of everything that’s wrong with humanity. Divine Justice: It speaks to a sense of righteous punishment, where God is exacting what he deems fair and just after a time of rebellion and moral failing. Important Context (Briefly): This verse comes right after the story of the Israelites' disobedience and wandering in the desert. It’s a pivotal moment that shows God’s power and his commitment to bringing about justice, even when it seems devastating. In short, this verse describes a time of intense judgment from God, where he will unleash unparalleled suffering upon humanity. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Connect this verse to other biblical stories or themes (like the Fall)?

Definition: For now I will stretch out my hand, that I may smite thee and thy people with pestilence; and thou shalt be cut off from the earth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 9:15. It's a really powerful and unsettling verse, and it speaks to a significant moment in Israel’s history. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a moment of intense hostility and judgment against the Israelites – essentially, a very severe punishment being inflicted upon them. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For now I will stretch out my hand…” : This isn’t just a casual gesture. It suggests a deliberate, forceful action. “Stretch out” implies a reaching out, a pushing, and a significant effort. “…that I may smite thee and thy people with pestilence;” : This is the core of the verse. "Smite" means to harm or defeat. “With pestilence” refers to disease – illness, death – that's spread throughout the nation. It’s not just a minor inconvenience; it’s a devastating and widespread problem. “…and thou shalt be cut off from the earth.” : This is the worst part. "Cut off" means to be completely removed, to be banished, or to be destroyed. Being "cut off from the earth" suggests that this punishment isn't just about suffering; it’s a complete and irreversible loss of life, belonging, and potential for future existence. What does this mean in context? This verse is found in Exodus 9:15 – which describes a period after the Israelites wandered in the wilderness and were instructed to bring sacrifices. God sees that they are not fulfilling their covenant with Him and decides to punish them harshly. It’s often interpreted as a consequence of disobedience and a sign of God's displeasure. Important Note: This is a difficult verse to interpret, and there have been many different theological interpretations over the centuries. Some see it as a prophecy of a devastating plague that would wipe out the entire nation of Israel. Others view it as a symbolic representation of divine judgment against those who reject God’s will. In short: This passage describes a moment of extreme punishment for the Israelites – a massive, widespread disease and death intended to cleanse them of their disobedience and demonstrate God's power. It’s a dramatic and unsettling image of divine wrath. --- Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/encyclopedia/Exodus-9](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/encyclopedia/Exodus-9) Wikipedia - Exodus 9:15: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exodus_9%27s_15](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exodus_9%27s_15) Would you like me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps explore a different aspect of the story?

Definition: And in very deed for this [cause] have I raised thee up, for to shew [in] thee my power; and that my name may be declared throughout all the earth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 9:16. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious part of the story of Moses! Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it means: God is raising someone (we’ll call them “thee”) to show his power and make his name known far and wide. Here’s a breakdown of what each part signifies: “And in very deed…” : This phrase emphasizes the significance of what’s about to happen. It’s not just a casual statement, but something important. “…for to shew [in] thee my power” : This means God is demonstrating his strength and authority. He's showing us that he's capable and powerful. Think of it like a demonstration – he’s letting us see his might. “And that my name may be declared throughout all the earth.” : This is the big part! God wants everyone to know his name (His character, His identity) because of this event. He wants his name to become known everywhere – across the whole world. What’s the “cause”? The Bible doesn't explicitly say why God is raising this person. It's a bit mysterious and open to interpretation. However, it’s generally understood that this person was a demonstrate or a prototype – someone who was incredibly powerful and good in the beginning, but then fell into darkness and evil. God needed to show his power again to restore goodness and light to the world. Important Note: This is a very complex passage and has been debated for centuries! Different interpretations exist about what the “cause” of this raising actually was. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Discuss the context of the story (how it connects to the earlier events)? Explore different possible interpretations of the meaning?

Definition: As yet exaltest thou thyself against my people, that thou wilt not let them go?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 9:17. It's a really powerful and dramatic verse, and it speaks to a significant moment in the story of Israel’s exodus from Egypt. Here’s an explanation in simple terms: What it means: This verse is about Pharaoh, the Egyptian ruler, refusing to let the Israelites go after they had escaped slavery. It's essentially saying, "You must fight me fiercely; don’t let them leave!" Let's unpack it piece by piece: “As yet exaltest thou thyself…” – This means “you must be powerful and defiant.” Pharaoh was resisting the Israelites' freedom. “…against my people” – This refers to the Israelites, who were being held captive in Egypt. “…that thou wilt not let them go?” – This is the core of the verse. Pharaoh refused to allow the Israelites to leave. He wanted to keep them under his control and prevent them from returning home. What’s happening in context? This verse comes after the Israelites had escaped Egypt. They were already living in a difficult situation, and Pharaoh was determined to not let them go. It's often interpreted as a significant moment of defiance and pressure on Moses. It shows that the Israelites were showing their strength and determination to escape. Why it’s important: This verse is considered one of the most dramatic moments in Exodus. It highlights: The Israelites’ resilience: They showed incredible courage and determination to leave Egypt, even though it was incredibly difficult. Pharaoh's stubbornness: Pharaoh's refusal to let them go demonstrates his power and control over the situation. In short, this verse is a powerful statement about defiance and the struggle between freedom and captivity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Exodus 9? Discuss the significance of this verse in a broader context within the story of the Israelites' journey?

Definition: Behold, to morrow about this time I will cause it to rain a very grievous hail, such as hath not been in Egypt since the foundation thereof even until now.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Exodus 9:18. It’s a really dramatic and unsettling verse, and it’s packed with symbolism! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a catastrophic event – a massive hailstorm – that is about to happen, and it's going to be extremely destructive. It’s a warning about impending disaster. Let’s unpack the parts: “Behold, to tomorrow about this time I will cause it to rain a very grievous hail…” "Behold" means "look!" This is a dramatic introduction – God is about to actively do something. “Very grievous” emphasizes how awful it's going to be - it’s not just a little drizzle. “…such as hath not been in Egypt since the foundation thereof even until now.” This is the crucial part! This is comparing the hailstorm to something that never happened before, and is happening now . "The foundation of Egypt" refers to the beginning of the world, so it's talking about a truly ancient and powerful event. It suggests this hailstorm will be unlike anything seen in history. What does it mean symbolically? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about: Divine Judgment: God is punishing people for their sins or disobedience. The hail could represent God’s judgment on the world, and it's devastating because it's powerful and unexpected. A Time of Testing: It suggests that God is testing humanity’s faith and resilience. The immense destruction could be a sign of something bigger to come. Important Context (Briefly): This passage comes before the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt. The Egyptians were obsessed with their gods, and they were causing trouble. God decided to punish them for their wickedness through this incredible hailstorm. In short, this verse is a powerful warning about impending disaster, likely connected to judgment and testing, and it's a dramatic statement about divine power. --- Do you want me to: Explain another biblical passage? Discuss the meaning of a specific symbol used in the verse (like hail)?