Exodus 8:29

KJV

And Moses said, Behold, I go out from thee, and I will intreat the LORD that the swarms [of flies] may depart from Pharaoh, from his servants, and from his people, to morrow: but let not Pharaoh deal deceitfully any more in not letting the people go to sacrifice to the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses {H4872} said {H559}, Behold, I go out {H3318} from thee, and I will intreat {H6279} the LORD {H3068} that the swarms {H6157} of flies may depart {H5493} from Pharaoh {H6547}, from his servants {H5650}, and from his people {H5971}, to morrow {H4279}: but {H7535} let not Pharaoh {H6547} deal deceitfully {H2048} any more {H3254} in not {H1115} letting the people {H5971} go {H7971} to sacrifice {H2076} to the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe said, "All right, I am going away from you, and I will intercede with ADONAI; so that tomorrow, the swarms of insects will leave Pharaoh, his servants and his people. Just make sure that Pharaoh stops playing games with the people by preventing them from going and sacrificing to ADONAI."

Berean Standard Bible

“As soon as I leave you,” Moses said, “I will pray to the LORD, so that tomorrow the swarms of flies will depart from Pharaoh and his officials and his people. But Pharaoh must not act deceitfully again by refusing to let the people go and sacrifice to the LORD.”

American Standard Version

And Moses said, Behold, I go out from thee, and I will entreat Jehovah that the swarms of flies may depart from Pharaoh, from his servants, and from his people, to-morrow: only let not Pharaoh deal deceitfully any more in not letting the people go to sacrifice to Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 8:29 records Moses' final words to Pharaoh concerning the fourth plague of flies, promising to intercede with the LORD for their removal by the following day. Crucially, Moses issues a stern warning against Pharaoh's pattern of deceit, emphasizing that the king must not again break his promise to release the Israelites for the express purpose of sacrificing to the LORD. This pivotal interaction underscores God's persistent grace, Moses' unwavering role as mediator, and Pharaoh's escalating treachery, setting the stage for further divine judgments and deepening the theological conflict.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture within the escalating narrative of the plagues upon Egypt, specifically marking the conclusion of the fourth plague, the swarms of flies. Prior to this, Pharaoh, overwhelmed by the severity and indiscriminate nature of the infestation, had just made a conditional concession to Moses, agreeing to let the Israelites go, provided they did not go "very far away" ([Exodus 8:28](/exodus/8-28 "Pharaoh's Conditional Release")). This concession, however, follows a well-established pattern of Pharaoh's hardened heart and broken promises once divine pressure was lifted, a cycle vividly demonstrated after the plague of frogs ([Exodus 8:15](/exodus/8-15 "Pharaoh Hardens His Heart After the Frogs")). Moses’ words in Exodus 8:29 are thus a direct, pre-emptive response to this demonstrated lack of integrity, offering God's mercy while simultaneously issuing a solemn warning against further treachery, thereby highlighting the critical juncture in the divine-human conflict and foreshadowing the intensifying struggle.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was a polytheistic society where Pharaoh was considered a divine king, a living god, and the embodiment of cosmic order (Ma'at). His word was law, and his integrity was paramount to his rule. Moses' direct confrontation with Pharaoh, challenging his authority and exposing his deceit, would have been deeply subversive to Egyptian cultural norms. The plagues themselves were not random acts but targeted judgments against specific Egyptian deities and their perceived powers, demonstrating the LORD's supremacy over all gods ([Exodus 12:12](/exodus/12-12 "Judgment on Egyptian Gods")). The demand for Israel to go "to sacrifice to the LORD" was culturally significant, as religious festivals and sacrifices were integral to ancient life, often requiring specific locations and practices that could not be performed within Egypt without offending Egyptian religious sensibilities or jeopardizing the Israelites.

* **Key Themes:** Exodus 8:29 contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes woven throughout the book of Exodus. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Power**, as God demonstrates absolute control over creation by sending and removing the plague of flies with precise timing and scope. Secondly, it highlights **God's Patience and Justice**, as He continues to offer Pharaoh opportunities for repentance and relief despite his repeated treachery, though this patience is clearly not limitless. Thirdly, the verse underscores the crucial **Role of the Mediator**, with Moses acting as God's chosen representative and intercessor, through whom divine will and mercy are conveyed. Finally, it vividly portrays the **Nature of a Hardened Heart**, as Pharaoh's escalating deceit and stubbornness serve as a stark example of a heart resistant to divine truth and commands, ultimately leading to greater judgment, a theme that climaxes in passages like [Exodus 9:34-35](/exodus/9-34-35 "Pharaoh's Continued Hardening"). The overarching purpose of Israel's deliverance—freedom for **Worship and Covenant Relationship** with the LORD—is also explicitly reiterated, emphasizing that true liberty is found in devotion to God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Exodus 8:29 captures a pivotal moment in the unfolding drama between God and Pharaoh, revealing both divine patience and human obstinacy.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **intreat (Hebrew, _ʻâthar'_):** From H6279, this primitive root means "to burn incense in worship," by implication, "to intercede" or "to listen to prayer." In this context, it signifies Moses' fervent, earnest, and effective prayer or supplication to the LORD. It highlights Moses' unique role as God's chosen representative and mediator, through whom divine power is both manifested and withdrawn, demonstrating God's willingness to respond to the prayers of His servant, even on behalf of an adversary.
* **deal deceitfully (Hebrew, _hâthal'_):** From H2048, this primitive root means "to deride" or, by implication, "to cheat." Here, it vividly describes Pharaoh's insincere promises and his repeated breaking of agreements. It implies a mocking or contemptuous attitude towards God's commands and Moses' mediation, demonstrating a profound lack of integrity. This deceit is not merely a political maneuver but a direct affront to the divine will, revealing a progressively hardened heart.
* **sacrifice (Hebrew, _zâbach'_):** From H2076, this primitive root means "to slaughter an animal (usually in sacrifice)." This word underscores the fundamental purpose of Israel's deliverance. Their freedom was not an end in itself, but a means to an end: the worship and service of the LORD through prescribed offerings. Pharaoh's refusal is therefore not just about holding onto slave labor but about resisting God's claim on His people for His exclusive worship and the establishment of a covenant relationship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Moses said, Behold, I go out from thee, and I will intreat the LORD"**: Moses' departure from Pharaoh's presence signifies a temporary cessation of direct confrontation, allowing for the intercession. The phrase "intreat the LORD" indicates Moses' role as a faithful mediator, taking Pharaoh's request (implicitly, for the plague's removal) to God. This action demonstrates God's accessibility through His chosen servant, even for those who oppose Him.
* **"that the swarms [of flies] may depart from Pharaoh, from his servants, and from his people, to morrow:"**: The specificity of the plague's removal—"to morrow"—underscores God's absolute control over creation and His precise timing. This was not a natural phenomenon but a divinely orchestrated judgment, and its removal would be equally supernatural, leaving no doubt as to the source of power. The comprehensive departure of the flies from "Pharaoh, from his servants, and from his people" indicates a complete removal of the judgment from the entire land of Egypt, not just Goshen where the Israelites resided, providing widespread relief.
* **"but let not Pharaoh deal deceitfully any more in not letting the people go to sacrifice to the LORD."**: This is the core of Moses' warning and reveals the heart of the conflict. The phrase "deal deceitfully" highlights Pharaoh's pattern of insincere promises and broken agreements, treating God's commands and Moses' mediation with contempt. This deceit is a direct affront to the divine will. Furthermore, the phrase "in not letting the people go to sacrifice to the LORD" reiterates the fundamental purpose of Israel's deliverance. Their freedom was not an end in itself, but a means to an end: the worship and service of the LORD. This emphasizes the theological significance of the Exodus narrative—it is about establishing a covenant relationship where God's people are free to worship Him exclusively. Pharaoh's refusal is therefore not just about holding onto slave labor but about resisting God's claim on His people for His worship.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Foreshadowing** is evident as Moses' warning about Pharaoh's deceit anticipates the king's subsequent hardening of heart and continued refusal to release Israel, setting the stage for more severe judgments. A powerful **Contrast** is drawn between Moses' integrity and faithful mediation on one hand, and Pharaoh's duplicity and stubborn resistance on the other. This highlights the moral and spiritual chasm between the two figures. The **Repetition** of the demand to "let the people go to sacrifice to the LORD" reinforces the central theological purpose of the Exodus, emphasizing that Israel's freedom is for divine worship. Finally, the verse functions as a **Divine Command and Warning**, delivered through Moses, underscoring God's authority and the consequences of defying His will.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 8:29 is a profound reflection on the nature of divine justice, human freedom, and the integrity required in covenant relationship. God's willingness to remove the plague, even for a defiant Pharaoh, showcases His long-suffering and desire for repentance, yet Moses' warning makes clear that divine patience has limits. The repeated demand for Israel to go and "sacrifice to the LORD" reveals that true freedom is not merely liberation from bondage but liberation *for* a purpose: worship and service to the Creator. Pharaoh's deceit, in contrast, illustrates the destructive power of a hardened heart and the spiritual danger of resisting God's clear commands, demonstrating how persistent defiance leads to greater judgment and self-inflicted spiritual bondage.

* [Exodus 9:34](/exodus/9-34 "Pharaoh Sins Again")
* [James 5:16](/james/5-16 "The Effective Prayer of a Righteous Man")
* [John 4:23](/john/4-23 "True Worshipers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 8:29 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. First, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity; like Pharaoh, we are often tempted to make promises under duress or conviction, only to renege when the pressure subsides. This verse calls us to be people of our word, recognizing that broken promises, especially concerning spiritual commitments, have serious consequences and erode trust, both human and divine. Second, Pharaoh's escalating stubbornness illustrates the perilous path of resisting God's will; delaying obedience or responding with insincerity only prolongs spiritual suffering and invites greater divine discipline. Finally, Moses' persistent intercession, even for an adversary, highlights the transformative power of prayer and our call to intercede for others, even those in authority or those who oppose God, trusting in His sovereign plan and His desire for all to come to repentance. Our freedom in Christ, mirroring Israel's deliverance, is ultimately for the purpose of serving and [worshipping the Lord in spirit and truth](/john/4-24 "Worship in Spirit and Truth"), not for self-indulgence or a return to spiritual bondage.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might you be tempted to "deal deceitfully" with God or others, making promises you don't intend to keep?**
* **How does Pharaoh's escalating stubbornness serve as a warning for your own spiritual journey?**
* **How can you cultivate a heart of integrity and genuine obedience, even when it's difficult?**
* **Considering Moses' role, for whom might God be calling you to intercede, even if they are resistant to Him?**

### FAQ
**Why does Moses continue to intercede for Pharaoh despite his deceit?**

Answer: Moses' continued intercession demonstrates God's persistent grace and long-suffering, offering Pharaoh repeated opportunities for repentance. It also highlights Moses' role as a faithful mediator, acting on God's behalf even towards an adversary, mirroring God's own character and His desire for all to turn to Him. This divine patience is a recurring theme, seen even in God's dealings with rebellious Israel throughout the Old Testament, and ultimately culminates in His sending of Christ. Moses' actions here are a testament to the compassionate nature of God, who desires not the death of the wicked but that they turn from their ways and live ([Ezekiel 33:11](/zekiel/33-11 "God Desires Repentance")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 8:29, though rooted in the Old Covenant narrative, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. Moses, as the faithful mediator interceding for a rebellious ruler, serves as a powerful type of Christ. Just as Moses stood between God and Pharaoh, pleading for mercy, so Jesus Christ stands as our ultimate [mediator between God and humanity](/1_timothy/2-5 "One Mediator, Christ Jesus"). Pharaoh's deceit and hardened heart reflect the universal human condition of sin and rebellion against God, a condition from which only Christ can deliver. The Israelites' freedom "to sacrifice to the LORD" foreshadows the true spiritual freedom purchased by Christ, enabling believers to offer themselves as [living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God](/romans/12-1 "Living Sacrifices"). Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "Jesus, the Lamb of God"), is the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling all the Old Testament sacrificial systems and providing the perfect means by which we can approach God in worship. His integrity stands in stark contrast to Pharaoh's deceit, for Christ is the [truth](/john/14-6 "Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life") and His promises are always faithful and true ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "God's Promises are 'Yes' in Christ")). Through His finished work on the cross, we are freed from the bondage of sin not to live as we please, but to [serve the living and true God](/1_thessalonians/1-9-10 "Serving the Living God") and worship Him in spirit and truth, a worship that is now accessible to all who believe.

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 8:15

But when Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he hardened his heart, and hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.

Exodus 8:8

Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron, and said, Intreat the LORD, that he may take away the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people go, that they may do sacrifice unto the LORD.

Jeremiah 42:20

For ye dissembled in your hearts, when ye sent me unto the LORD your God, saying, Pray for us unto the LORD our God; and according unto all that the LORD our God shall say, so declare unto us, and we will do [it].

Jeremiah 42:21

And [now] I have this day declared [it] to you; but ye have not obeyed the voice of the LORD your God, nor any [thing] for the which he hath sent me unto you.

Psalms 66:3

Say unto God, How terrible [art thou in] thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee.

Galatians 6:7

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

Psalms 78:34

When he slew them, then they sought him: and they returned and enquired early after God.