Definition: And when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunders were ceased, he sinned yet more, and hardened his heart, he and his servants.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 9:34. It’s a really important part of understanding how God works in the world. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it’s about Pharaoh’s pride and stubbornness leading to a bigger problem. Here’s a breakdown: “And when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunders were ceased…” : This describes a period of drought – a long time without rain. It's a time of hardship for the people. “…he sinned yet more…” : Pharaoh, as the leader of Egypt, was making mistakes. He wasn’t doing enough to help his people survive this difficult time. It’s like he wasn’t being generous or thoughtful. “And hardened his heart…” : This is a key word. "Hardened his heart" means he became angry and unyielding . He stopped listening to the advice of Moses and the other leaders. “…he and his servants.” : Pharaoh’s servants, who were protecting him, joined in this stubbornness. They didn't want to help, and they were part of the problem. So, what does it mean practically? It shows that Pharaoh wasn't just unlucky; he was actively making things worse through his pride and refusal to listen to God’s guidance. It highlights a crucial point in the story: God’s plans are often about helping people, and sometimes, even those who seem strong and powerful, need to be humbled and open to His will. In essence, it's a reminder that God works through difficult times, and we should always listen to Him, even when it feels like things aren't going our way. Do you want me to explain any of these points further, or perhaps explore how this verse relates to other parts of the Bible?