Exodus 10:18

KJV

And he went out from Pharaoh, and intreated the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he went out {H3318} from Pharaoh {H6547}, and intreated {H6279} the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He went out from Pharaoh and interceded with ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

So Moses left Pharaoh’s presence and appealed to the LORD.

American Standard Version

And he went out from Pharaoh, and entreated Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 10:18 captures Moses' immediate and faithful response to Pharaoh's desperate plea for relief from the devastating locust plague. The verse succinctly portrays Moses departing from the king's presence to earnestly intercede with the LORD, highlighting his pivotal role as God's chosen mediator and underscoring the direct efficacy of prayer in the unfolding drama of divine judgment and human stubbornness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed at a pivotal moment within the narrative of the ten plagues, specifically following the eighth plague of locusts. Immediately preceding it, [Exodus 10:17](/exodus/10-17 "Pharaoh's Plea for Mercy and Confession") records Pharaoh's uncharacteristic, albeit temporary and fear-driven, confession of sin and his urgent request for Moses and Aaron to "intreat the LORD your God, that he may take away from me this death only." Moses' action in this verse is a direct and swift fulfillment of that desperate request, showcasing his obedience not only to God's command but also to the plea of his oppressor. The subsequent verse, [Exodus 10:19](/exodus/10-19 "God Removes the Locusts") details the LORD's immediate and powerful response to Moses' intercession, demonstrating the clear and direct link between Moses' prayer and God's miraculous intervention. This sequence powerfully underscores the dynamic interplay between human supplication and divine action in the Exodus narrative.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, it was common for kings to serve as chief mediators between their people and the gods, or to employ priests and prophets for such roles. Pharaoh's request for Moses to "intreat the LORD" is a significant concession, implicitly acknowledging Moses' unique standing as a prophet of Yahweh, the God of Israel, and recognizing Yahweh's supreme power over the Egyptian deities and natural phenomena. The act of "entreating" a deity involved formal, often solemn, supplication to avert divine wrath or secure blessings. Pharaoh's plea, coming after eight devastating plagues, reflects a cultural understanding of divine judgment and the desperate need for a powerful intercessor. Despite his immense power and divine claims, Pharaoh is reduced to pleading with Moses, highlighting the dramatic reversal of power dynamics orchestrated by God. This moment also subtly reinforces the ancient concept of a covenant relationship, where a mediator (Moses) stands between the offended deity (Yahweh) and the offending party (Pharaoh and Egypt).

* **Key Themes:** Exodus 10:18 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Primarily, it highlights **God's absolute sovereignty** over creation and judgment, as He is the one who sends and removes the plagues, demonstrating His control over the natural world and His direct involvement in human affairs to accomplish His redemptive purposes. Secondly, it underscores the **efficacy and importance of intercessory prayer**, revealing God's responsiveness to the earnest pleas of His chosen servant, even on behalf of an unrepentant oppressor. This theme is crucial throughout the wilderness wanderings, as seen in Moses' repeated intercession for Israel (e.g., [Exodus 32:11-14](/exodus/32-11-14 "Moses Intercedes for Israel")). Thirdly, the verse emphasizes **Moses' crucial role as a divinely appointed mediator** between God and humanity, a role that prefigures the ultimate mediator. Moses faithfully carries out his prophetic duty, praying for an oppressor, which highlights the compassionate nature of God's chosen servants and their willingness to extend mercy even when justice seems warranted. Finally, it subtly reinforces the theme of **Pharaoh's hardening heart**, as his temporary plea for mercy quickly gives way to renewed defiance once the pressure is lifted, a pattern seen repeatedly in the plague cycle (e.g., [Exodus 10:20](/exodus/10-20 "The LORD Hardens Pharaoh's Heart")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **went out (Hebrew, _yâtsâʼ_):** H3318 - This primitive root signifies "to go (causatively, bring) out," encompassing a wide variety of applications, both literal and figurative. In this context, it denotes Moses' physical departure from Pharaoh's presence, marking a clear separation from the sphere of Egyptian authority and a transition to a place of direct communion with God. The immediacy of his departure underscores his obedience and the urgency of the situation, indicating that he did not delay in fulfilling Pharaoh's request and turning to the true source of power.
* **intreated (Hebrew, _ʻâthar_):** H6279 - A primitive root, often considered denominative from a word meaning "incense" or "abundance," this verb means "to burn incense in worship," or more broadly, "to intercede" or "to listen to prayer" (reciprocally). Here, it specifically means "to make prayer" or "to entreat." Moses' action is not a casual request but a formal, earnest, and deliberate act of supplication, implying a fervent appeal to God for intervention. It highlights the solemnity and efficacy of his prayer, emphasizing his role as a true intercessor who stands between God and humanity, appealing to the Almighty for mercy.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh_):** H3068 - Derived from the verb "to be" (hayah), this is the self-Existent or Eternal One, the Jewish national name of God, often rendered "Jehovah" or "the LORD." This sacred name emphasizes God's covenant faithfulness, His unchanging nature, and His absolute sovereignty. Moses' "intreating the LORD" signifies that he appeals to the one true God, Yahweh, whose power far surpasses that of any Egyptian deity or human ruler, affirming the source of all authority and the ultimate arbiter of judgment and mercy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he went out from Pharaoh,"**: This clause describes Moses' physical departure from the royal court. It signifies the conclusion of the immediate confrontation and negotiation regarding the locust plague. Moses does not linger to gloat over Pharaoh's distress or to further pressure him. Instead, his immediate exit demonstrates his commitment to acting upon Pharaoh's request, fulfilling his role as God's obedient messenger and a compassionate intercessor, even for his oppressor. His departure also symbolizes a shift from the realm of human authority and political maneuvering to a space where he can directly address divine authority and power.
* **"and intreated the LORD."**: This is the pivotal action of the verse. Having left Pharaoh's presence, Moses immediately turns his attention and efforts toward the LORD in earnest prayer. The verb "intreated" (ʻâthar) emphasizes the depth, seriousness, and specific nature of his plea. This act is not merely a personal devotion but a powerful intercession on behalf of Pharaoh and Egypt, demonstrating Moses' unwavering obedience to God's commands and his willingness to act as a conduit for God's mercy, even when dealing with a hardened adversary. It underscores the direct and personal relationship Moses had with God, allowing him to approach God with confidence and expectation for divine intervention.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 10:18, though concise, employs several powerful **Literary Devices**. Its **Directness** and declarative nature create a sense of immediacy and efficiency, highlighting Moses' swift obedience and the direct cause-and-effect relationship between his action and God's response. The verse functions as a **Pivot Point** in the narrative, moving from Pharaoh's desperate plea to Moses' intercession, which then leads directly to God's removal of the plague. This sequence emphasizes the critical role of the mediator. Furthermore, there is an implied **Contrast** between the human sphere of Pharaoh's court and the divine sphere accessed through Moses' prayer. Moses' "going out from Pharaoh" and immediately "entreating the LORD" juxtaposes human powerlessness with divine omnipotence, showcasing where true authority and the solution to the crisis ultimately lie. This stark contrast reinforces the theological message that only Yahweh can control the forces of nature and deliver from judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully illustrates several profound theological truths. First, it reveals **God's profound responsiveness to prayer**, particularly intercessory prayer. Despite Pharaoh's persistent rebellion, his repeated hardening of heart, and the just nature of the plagues, God hears and acts upon Moses' earnest plea, demonstrating His willingness to extend mercy even to those who oppose Him and providing further opportunity for repentance. Second, it underscores **Moses' crucial role as a faithful mediator** between a holy God and a rebellious humanity, a role that profoundly prefigures the ultimate mediator. Moses faithfully carries out his prophetic duty, praying for an oppressor, which highlights the compassionate nature of God's chosen servants and their willingness to seek God's favor for others. Third, it reaffirms **God's absolute sovereignty over creation and judgment**. The LORD is the one who sends and removes the plagues, demonstrating His complete control over the natural world and His direct involvement in human affairs to accomplish His redemptive purposes, ultimately for His glory and the liberation of His people.

The theme of intercession connects this verse to the broader biblical narrative of God's people appealing to Him on behalf of others, foreshadowing the ultimate intercessor:
* [Genesis 18:23-33](/genesis/18-23-33 "Abraham's Intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah")
* [1 Samuel 12:23](/1_samuel/12-23 "Samuel's Commitment to Prayer")
* [1 Timothy 2:1-2](/1_timothy/2-1-2 "Call to Intercessory Prayer for All People")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 10:18 offers a timeless and profound lesson on the power and importance of prayer, particularly intercessory prayer. Moses' immediate and earnest appeal to God, even on behalf of a tyrannical ruler who had repeatedly defied God and oppressed His people, challenges us to cultivate a similar spirit of compassion, obedience, and unwavering faith. It reminds us that our prayers are not in vain; God hears and responds, often in powerful and direct ways, demonstrating His sovereign control and His willingness to extend mercy. This verse encourages believers to pray for all people—for leaders, for those who oppose us, for those who are lost in rebellion against God, and for those in desperate need—trusting in God's sovereign power to work in every situation, even the most seemingly hopeless. It also highlights the call to act faithfully in our roles as God's representatives, demonstrating His character of love and mercy, even when it requires humility and compassion towards those who may not seem to deserve it. Our intercession can be a vital conduit for God's grace in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Moses' willingness to intercede for Pharaoh challenge your perspective on praying for those who may be difficult, hostile, or even persecute you or your faith?**
* **What does Moses' immediate action in "entreating the LORD" teach us about the urgency, sincerity, and directness that should characterize our own prayer lives?**
* **In what specific situations today might you be called to act as an "intercessor," standing between God and a person, community, or situation in need of divine intervention?**

### FAQ
**Why did Moses pray for Pharaoh, his oppressor?**

Answer: Moses prayed for Pharaoh primarily because God had commanded him to deliver the plagues and then to remove them upon Pharaoh's request, demonstrating God's power and giving Pharaoh repeated opportunities to repent. Moses, as God's faithful servant and prophet, consistently obeyed the [LORD's instructions](/exodus/7-1 "God's Commission to Moses"), even when those instructions involved showing a measure of mercy to an oppressor. His intercession was not an endorsement of Pharaoh's actions but an act of obedience to God and a demonstration of the divine compassion that extends even to the wicked, providing a window for repentance. It also served to further highlight God's sovereignty over the plagues, as their removal was clearly tied to divine intervention, not Pharaoh's own power or any Egyptian deity.

**Did Pharaoh's repentance in Exodus 10:17 indicate true change of heart?**

Answer: While Pharaoh's words in [Exodus 10:17](/exodus/10-17 "Pharaoh's Plea for Mercy") sound like a confession ("I have sinned against the LORD your God and against you"), his subsequent actions consistently reveal that his "repentance" was superficial and situational, driven by the immediate pressure of the plague rather than a genuine change of heart. As soon as the locusts were removed, his heart hardened again, as explicitly stated in [Exodus 10:20](/exodus/10-20 "The LORD Hardens Pharaoh's Heart"). This pattern of temporary contrition followed by renewed rebellion is a recurring theme throughout the plague narratives (e.g., [Exodus 8:15](/exodus/8-15 "Pharaoh Hardens His Heart After Frogs")), highlighting the crucial difference between fear-driven regret and true, transformative repentance that leads to a change of behavior and allegiance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 10:18, with Moses acting as an intercessor, powerfully prefigures the person and work of Jesus Christ, the ultimate and perfect mediator. Moses, as a prophet and divinely appointed mediator, stood between a holy God and a rebellious Pharaoh, pleading for temporary mercy and relief from judgment. This crucial role is ultimately and perfectly fulfilled in Jesus, who is the **Great High Priest** (as described in [Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14-16 "Jesus, Our Great High Priest")) and the **one true Mediator** between God and humanity (as affirmed in [1 Timothy 2:5](/1_timothy/2-5 "One Mediator Between God and Man")). Unlike Moses, whose intercession was for temporary physical relief and for an unrepentant king, Jesus' intercession is for the eternal salvation of all who believe and for the ongoing sanctification of His people. He not only prays for His followers but also for those who persecute Him, famously praying, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" while on the cross ([Luke 23:34](/luke/23-34 "Jesus Prays for His Persecutors")). This echoes Moses' willingness to pray for his oppressor, but Jesus' prayer carries ultimate redemptive power, securing forgiveness and reconciliation. Furthermore, Jesus' intercession is not limited to a specific crisis but is ongoing; He "always lives to intercede" for those who come to God through Him ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Jesus' Eternal Intercession")). Moses' prayer brought temporary physical relief; Christ's intercession, rooted in His atoning death and resurrection, brings eternal spiritual deliverance from sin, death, and their consequences, securing our place in God's presence. Thus, Moses' act in [Exodus 10:18](/exodus/10-18 "Moses' Intercession for Pharaoh") serves as a shadow, pointing forward to the perfect, compassionate, and eternally effective intercession of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 8:28

And Pharaoh said, I will let you go, that ye may sacrifice to the LORD your God in the wilderness; only ye shall not go very far away: intreat for me.

Exodus 8:30

And Moses went out from Pharaoh, and intreated the LORD.

Exodus 8:9

And Moses said unto Pharaoh, Glory over me: when shall I intreat for thee, and for thy servants, and for thy people, to destroy the frogs from thee and thy houses, [that] they may remain in the river only?

Matthew 5:44

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Luke 6:28

Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.