Exodus 11:7

KJV

But against any of the children of Israel shall not a dog move his tongue, against man or beast: that ye may know how that the LORD doth put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel.

KJV (with Strong's)

But against any of the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} shall not a dog {H3611} move {H2782} his tongue {H3956}, against man {H376} or beast {H929}: that ye may know {H3045} how that the LORD {H3068} doth put a difference {H6395} between the Egyptians {H4714} and Israel {H3478}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But not even a dog's growl will be heard against any of the people of Isra'el, neither against people nor against animals. In this way you will realize that ADONAI distinguishes between Egyptians and Isra'el.

Berean Standard Bible

But among all the Israelites, not even a dog will snarl at man or beast.’ Then you will know that the LORD makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel.

American Standard Version

But against any of the children of Israel shall not a dog move his tongue, against man or beast: that ye may know how that Jehovah doth make a distinction between the Egyptians and Israel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 11:7 stands as a profound declaration of God's absolute sovereignty and meticulous care, promising an unblemished peace and divinely ordained protection for the Israelites amidst the impending, devastating tenth plague. This verse powerfully underscores the LORD's unique ability to differentiate between His covenant people and their oppressors, serving as an undeniable testament to His faithfulness and supreme authority over all creation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed as a climactic declaration within the escalating narrative of the plagues, immediately preceding the final and most severe judgment: the death of the firstborn, as announced in [Exodus 11:4-6](/exodus/11-4-6 "The Announcement of the Tenth Plague"). The preceding nine plagues progressively demonstrated Yahweh's power over Pharaoh and the pantheon of Egyptian deities. While earlier judgments, such as the plague of flies ([Exodus 8:22-23](/exodus/8-22-23 "The Distinction in the Plague of Flies")) and the plague on livestock ([Exodus 9:4-6](/exodus/9-4-6 "The Distinction in the Plague on Livestock")), already highlighted a distinction in their impact between the Egyptians and the Israelites residing in Goshen, [Exodus 11:7](/exodus/11-7 "Exodus 11:7 - God's Distinction Between Egyptians and Israel") emphasizes an even more profound, absolute, and publicly observable separation. This meticulous distinction sets the stage for the Passover, the ultimate act of redemption, and Israel's long-awaited exodus from bondage.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was a deeply polytheistic society, where Pharaoh himself was revered as a divine king, a living god. The plagues were not random acts of destruction but direct challenges to the authority of Pharaoh and the perceived power of Egypt's numerous deities, with each plague often targeting a specific god or aspect of their cosmology. For instance, the plague of darkness challenged Ra, the sun god, and the plague on the Nile challenged Hapi, the god of the Nile. The LORD's unprecedented ability to precisely target the Egyptians while completely sparing the Israelites, even down to the silence of a dog, was an undeniable demonstration of His supreme power over all creation and all other "gods." This act of divine distinction would have been a profoundly humbling and terrifying experience for the Egyptians, while simultaneously serving as a powerful affirmation of Yahweh's covenant faithfulness and protective care for His chosen people, Israel, who were enslaved and seemingly powerless.
* **Key Themes:** [Exodus 11:7](/exodus/11-7 "Exodus 11:7 - God's Distinction Between Egyptians and Israel") contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes woven throughout the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost among these is God's **absolute sovereignty** over all creation and human affairs, demonstrating His unparalleled power to execute both judgment and salvation. It powerfully illustrates the theme of **divine distinction and election**, showing God's active initiative in setting apart a people for Himself, not based on their merit but on His covenant promises. This verse also underscores God's unwavering **covenant faithfulness**, reminding both Israel and Egypt that Yahweh remembers His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Finally, the meticulous nature of this distinction highlights the **revelation of God's glory and identity**—the purpose of the plagues was not merely to punish, but "that ye may know" who the LORD truly is, both to His people and to the nations, a theme echoed in passages like [Exodus 9:16](/exodus/9-16 "God's Power Revealed to Pharaoh").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Exodus 11:7 is a powerful statement of divine sovereignty and meticulous care, delivered by Moses to Pharaoh just before the final plague. It serves as a stark contrast to the impending chaos in Egypt, highlighting God's protective hand over Israel.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **move (Hebrew, _chârats'_ - H2782):** From a primitive root meaning "to point sharply," this word can denote wounding, but figuratively, it means "to be alert," "to decide," or "to bestir oneself." In this context, it signifies any active, decided, or even subtle movement or sound. The negation ("shall not... move") emphasizes the absolute stillness and lack of any disturbance or threat. It highlights the completeness of God's protective shield, ensuring not even the slightest, most common annoyance would befall the Israelites.
* **know (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_ - H3045):** This primitive root means "to know," but not merely intellectually. It encompasses a wide range of senses, including "to ascertain by seeing," "to experience," "to recognize," "to discern," and even "to acknowledge." Here, the purpose of God's action is for all—Egyptians and Israelites alike—to experientially and undeniably "know" Yahweh's power and distinction. It's about a deep, transformative understanding born from direct observation of divine action.
* **put a difference (Hebrew, _pâlâh'_ - H6395):** This primitive root means "to distinguish," "to separate," or "to make distinct in a marvelous or extraordinary way." It's not merely a passive observation of a pre-existing difference, but an active, intentional, and miraculous act of divine intervention. God doesn't just allow a difference; He actively creates and enforces it, making it clear and undeniable to all observers. This underscores that God's act of separating Israel from Egypt was unique and miraculous, a clear demonstration of His extraordinary power and favor.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But against any of the children of Israel shall not a dog move his tongue, against man or beast:"** This clause vividly contrasts the impending chaos, wailing, and death in Egypt with the absolute peace and security promised to Israel. The phrase "not a dog move his tongue" is a powerful, hyperbolic idiom signifying absolute tranquility, quiet, and the absence of any disturbance or threat. It implies such profound serenity and security that not even the smallest creature, like a dog (which would typically bark at intruders or disturbances), would make a sound against the Israelites. This emphasizes the totality of God's protection—not just from physical harm, but from any form of alarm or discomfort, highlighting the meticulous nature of God's care. This protection extends to "man or beast," indicating a comprehensive divine shield over all of Israelite life and property, underscoring the precision and completeness of God's judgment and salvation.
* **"that ye may know how that the LORD doth put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel."** This clause explicitly states the divine purpose behind this miraculous distinction. The "ye" refers broadly to all who would witness these events: the Egyptians, who would experience the judgment and observe Israel's peace, and the Israelites themselves, who would experience God's protection firsthand. The aim is for all to "know" (yâdaʻ, to know experientially, not just intellectually) that Yahweh, the God of Israel, is actively and powerfully "putting a difference" (pâlâh) between His covenant people and those who oppose Him. This serves as an undeniable testament to God's unique sovereignty, His justice, and His unwavering covenant faithfulness.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Exodus 11:7 is **stark contrast** or **juxtaposition**, which is central to the entire plague narrative. The verse deliberately sets the experience of the Egyptians (impending death, wailing, chaos) directly against that of the Israelites (peace, safety, silence). This sharp opposition highlights the divine hand at work, making God's intervention unmistakable. Additionally, the phrase "shall not a dog move his tongue" functions as a powerful **idiom** and a form of **hyperbole**. This ancient idiom signifies absolute peace and the complete absence of even the slightest disturbance. By exaggerating the quietude to such an extent that not even a dog barks, the text emphasizes the meticulousness, totality, and miraculous nature of God's protective hand over His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 11:7 powerfully articulates several core theological truths about God, His relationship with humanity, and His redemptive plan. It portrays God's absolute sovereignty and control, demonstrating His complete dominion over creation, even over the instincts of animals and the precise execution of judgment and protection. He is not merely a regional deity but the supreme ruler of all. This verse also highlights divine distinction and election, showing that God actively "puts a difference" between His people and the world, setting them apart based on His covenant promises, not on their merit. This distinction serves both for their protection and as a powerful witness to His power. Furthermore, it underscores God's unwavering covenant faithfulness; despite Israel's slavery and apparent helplessness, God remembers His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, intervening powerfully to deliver His people. Finally, the purpose of judgment and deliverance is revealed: the plagues and Israel's deliverance serve to judge the oppressor and to reveal God's glory and power to both His people and the nations, so that "ye may know" who the LORD truly is.

This theme of divine distinction and protection for God's chosen people resonates throughout the biblical narrative:
* [Malachi 3:18](/malachi/3-18 "The Distinction Between Righteous and Wicked")
* [Psalm 91:7-10](/psalm/91-7-10 "God's Protection in Psalm 91")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "God Works All Things for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 11:7 offers profound encouragement and insightful application for believers today, reminding us of God's active involvement in the world and His meticulous, sovereign care for His people. In a world often marked by chaos, uncertainty, and spiritual opposition, this verse assures us that God still "puts a difference." While believers are not promised exemption from all hardship or suffering, we are assured of God's sovereign presence and protection. He distinguishes His own, not necessarily by preventing all physical harm, but by securing our ultimate spiritual peace, our eternal destiny, and by working all things for our good and His glory. This truth calls us to deeper trust in His providence, to recognize His hand in our lives, and to live as those truly set apart for His purposes, reflecting His character and mission in a world that desperately needs to "know" Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of God's absolute protection in Exodus 11:7 challenge or affirm your understanding of divine care in a world where believers still experience suffering and trials?**
* **In what ways might God be "putting a difference" between His people and the world today, even if it's not as outwardly dramatic as the plagues in Egypt?**
* **How can recognizing God's sovereign distinction and protective care empower you to live with greater peace, confidence, and purpose amidst personal or global turmoil?**

### FAQ
**Does 'not a dog move his tongue' mean believers will never face any trouble or discomfort?**

Answer: No, the idiom "not a dog move his tongue" in [Exodus 11:7](/exodus/11-7 "Exodus 11:7 - God's Distinction Between Egyptians and Israel") signifies an extraordinary, miraculous, and complete peace specifically in the context of the plagues, where God was demonstrating His power over Egypt and delivering Israel from slavery. It was a unique, historical event designed to reveal God's identity and power in a dramatic, undeniable way. While God does promise protection and peace to His people, the Bible also clearly teaches that believers will face trials, tribulations, and suffering in this fallen world, as Jesus Himself stated in [John 16:33](/john/16-33 "Jesus's Words on Trouble and Peace"): "In the world you will have tribulation." Similarly, [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "Persecution for Godly Living") reminds us that "all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." The ultimate "difference" God makes for believers today is spiritual and eternal: protection from His wrath, peace with Him through Christ, and the assurance of eternal life and ultimate good in His sovereign plan.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 11:7, with its profound themes of divine distinction, meticulous protection, and righteous judgment, finds its ultimate fulfillment and reinterpretation in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as God "put a difference" between Israel and Egypt, Jesus Christ, through His perfect life, atoning death, and triumphant resurrection, creates the ultimate and eternal distinction between those who are "in Christ" and those who remain outside of Him. He is the one who eternally separates light from darkness, life from death, and the saved from the lost, as declared in [John 3:18](/john/3-18 "Condemnation and Belief"). The physical protection promised to Israel from the plague of death foreshadows the spiritual protection and deliverance Christ offers from the ultimate judgment of sin and eternal death. Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus bore the wrath and judgment that humanity deserved, providing a "passover" for all who believe in Him, leading to reconciliation with God and the glorious declaration of "no condemnation" found in [Romans 8:1](/romans/8-1 "No Condemnation in Christ Jesus"). He offers not merely peace from a barking dog, but peace with God and security from eternal condemnation, as [1 Peter 3:18](/1_peter/3-18 "Christ Suffered for Sins") proclaims: "For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God." The final plague, which [Exodus 11:7](/exodus/11-7 "Exodus 11:7 - God's Distinction Between Egyptians and Israel") precedes, directly leads to the institution of the Passover, where the blood of a lamb protected Israel's firstborn. Jesus is revealed as the true "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John the Baptist Identifies Jesus")), whose shed blood provides the ultimate and eternal means by which God "puts a difference" between those covered by His grace and those who remain under judgment. The "children of Israel" in Exodus 11:7 represent God's chosen people; in the New Covenant, through Christ, this concept expands to include all who believe, Jew and Gentile alike, forming a new spiritual Israel, the church, who are likewise "set apart" by God and live under His divine protection and care, as described in [1 Peter 2:9-10](/1_peter/2-9-10 "A Chosen People").

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

Joshua 10:21

And all the people returned to the camp to Joshua at Makkedah in peace: none moved his tongue against any of the children of Israel.

Exodus 8:22

And I will sever in that day the land of Goshen, in which my people dwell, that no swarms [of flies] shall be there; to the end thou mayest know that I [am] the LORD in the midst of the earth.

Exodus 10:23

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.

Malachi 3:18

Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

Exodus 9:4

And the LORD shall sever between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt: and there shall nothing die of all [that is] the children's of Israel.

Job 5:16

So the poor hath hope, and iniquity stoppeth her mouth.

Exodus 7:22

And the magicians of Egypt did so with their enchantments: and Pharaoh's heart was hardened, neither did he hearken unto them; as the LORD had said.