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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Exodus 9:13–21. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. A general declaration of the wrath of God against Pharaoh for his obstinacy. Though God has hardened his heart (Exo 9:12), yet Moses must repeat his applications to him; God suspends his grace and yet demands obedience, to punish him for requiring bricks of the children of Israel when he denied them straw. God would likewise show forth a pattern of long-suffering, and how he waits to be gracious to a rebellious and gainsaying people Six times the demand had been made in vain, yet Moses must make it the seventh time: Let my people go, Exo 9:13. A most dreadful message Moses is here ordered to deliver to him, whether he will hear or whether he will forbear. 1. He must tell him that he is marked for ruin, that he now stands as the butt at which God would shoot all the arrows of his wrath, Exo 9:14, Exo 9:15. "Now I will send all my plagues." Now that no place is found for repentance in Pharaoh, nothing can prevent his utter destruction, for that only would have prevented it. Now that God begins to harden his heart, his case is desperate. "I will send my plagues upon thy heart, not only temporal plagues upon thy body, but spiritual plagues upon thy soul." Note, God can send plagues upon thy soul." Note, God can send plagues upon the heart, either by making it senseless or by making it hopeless - and these are the worst plagues. Pharaoh must now expect no respite, no cessation of arms, but to be followed with plague upon plague, till he is utterly consumed. Note, When God judges he will overcome; none ever hardened his heart against him and prospered. 2. He must tell him that he is to remain in history a standing monument of the justice and power of God's wrath (Exo 9:16): "For this cause have I raised thee up to the throne at this time, and made thee to stand the shock of the plagues hitherto, to show in thee my power." Providence ordered it so that Moses should have a man of such a fierce and stubborn spirit as he was to deal with; and every thing was so managed in this transaction as to make it a most signal and memorable instance of the power God has to humble and bring down the proudest of his enemies. Every thing concurred to signalize this, that God's name (that is, his incontestable sovereignty, his irresistible power, and his inflexible justice) might be declared throughout all the earth, not only to all places, but through all ages while the earth remains. Note, God sometimes raises up very bad men to honour and power, spares them long, and suffers them to grow insufferably insolent, that he may be so much the more glorified in their destruction at last. See how the neighbouring nations, at that time, improved the ruin of Pharaoh to the glory of God. Jethro said upon it, Now know I that the Lord is greater than all gods, Exo 18:11. The apostle illustrates the doctrine of God's sovereignty with this instance, Rom 9:17. To justify God in these resolutions, Moses is directed to ask him (Exo 9:17), As yet exaltest thou thyself against my people? Pharaoh was a great king; God's people were poor shepherds at the best, and now poor slaves; and yet Pharaoh shall be ruined if he exalt himself against them, for it is considered as exalting himself against God. This was not the first time that God reproved kings for their sakes, and let them know that he would not suffer his people to be trampled upon and insulted, no, not by the most powerful of them.
II.A particular prediction of the plague of hail (Exo 9:18), and a gracious advice to Pharaoh and his people to send for their servants and cattle out of the field, that they might be sheltered from the hail, Exo 9:19. Note, When God's justice threatens ruin his mercy, at the same time, shows us a way of escape from it, so unwilling is he that any should perish. See here what care God took, not only to distinguish between Egyptians and Israelites, but between some Egyptians and others. If Pharaoh will not yield, and so prevent the judgment itself, yet an opportunity is given to those that have any dread of God and his word to save themselves from sharing in the judgment. Note, Those that will take warning may take shelter; and those that will not may thank themselves if they fall by the overflowing scourge, and the hail which will sweep away the refuge of lies, Isa 28:17. See the different effect of this warning.
1.Some believed the things that were spoken, and they feared, and housed their servants and cattle (Exo 9:20), like Noah (Heb 11:7), and it was their wisdom. Even among the servants of Pharaoh there were some that trembled at God's word; and shall not the sons of Israel dread it? But,
2.Others believed not: though, whatever plague Moses had hitherto foretold, the event exactly answered to the prediction; and though, if they had had any reason to question this, it would have been no great damage to them to have kept their cattle in the house for one day, and so, supposing it a doubtful case, to have chosen the surer side; yet they were so foolhardy as in defiance to the truth of Moses, and the power of God (of both which they had already had experience enough, to their cost), to leave their cattle in the field, Pharaoh himself, it is probable, giving them an example of the presumption, Exo 9:21. Note, Obstinate infidelity, which is deaf to the fairest warnings and the wisest counsels, leaves the blood of those that perish upon their own heads.
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Summary
Exodus 9:17 presents a profound divine interrogation of Pharaoh, directly challenging his persistent, defiant self-exaltation against Yahweh's people and his unyielding refusal to release them from bondage. This pivotal declaration, delivered through Moses, underscores Pharaoh's profound culpability and sets the stage for the escalating divine judgments against Egypt, revealing God's unwavering resolve to liberate Israel despite human opposition and to magnify His own name throughout the earth.
Context
Literary Context
This divine pronouncement emerges at a critical and intensifying phase of the confrontation between God and Pharaoh. It immediately follows the plague of boils (Exodus 9:8-12), which afflicted both Egyptians and their livestock, and Pharaoh's heart remained hardened despite the severe suffering. The verse serves as a direct prelude to the announcement of the seventh plague, a devastating hail storm (Exodus 9:18-26), signaling that divine patience is wearing thin and that judgments are escalating in severity. This rhetorical question from God highlights the deliberate and active nature of Pharaoh's ongoing rebellion, setting the stage for the climactic demonstrations of God's power that are yet to come, all within the overarching narrative of God's determined liberation of His people.
Historical & Cultural Context
In ancient Egypt, the Pharaoh was considered a divine being, a living god, the son of Ra, and the embodiment of Horus. This belief system profoundly shaped Pharaoh's understanding of his own authority and his resistance to any power that challenged it, especially an unseen foreign deity like Yahweh. Pharaoh's refusal to release the Israelites was not merely a political or economic decision (as Israel constituted a significant labor force) but a theological challenge to Yahweh's supremacy. The plagues, therefore, were not random acts of destruction but direct assaults on the Egyptian pantheon, demonstrating Yahweh's absolute sovereignty over all creation and all other gods, including Pharaoh himself. The very notion of a foreign God demanding the release of "His people" would have been an unthinkable affront to Pharaoh's perceived divine status and absolute rule.
Key Themes
Exodus 9:17 is central to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Exodus. It powerfully contributes to the theme of God's Sovereignty and Power, demonstrating His ultimate control over human rulers and natural forces, even when met with defiance. It further develops the recurring motif of Pharaoh's Hardened Heart (Exodus 7:3), emphasizing that his resistance is not merely stubbornness but active, self-exalting rebellion against the divine will. The verse also underscores God's Unwavering Purpose to deliver His covenant people, Israel, and to make His name known throughout the earth, as explicitly stated in the preceding verse (Exodus 9:16). Finally, it highlights the Justice of God's Judgment, as Pharaoh's escalating defiance directly correlates with the increasing severity of the plagues, revealing that divine wrath is a righteous response to persistent sin.
Exposition and Analysis
Exodus 9:17 functions as a rhetorical question from God, serving as a direct and pointed accusation against Pharaoh, highlighting his active and defiant rebellion against the divine will.
Key Word Analysis
A primitive root meaning "to mound up," "to exalt," or reflexively, "to oppose (as by a dam)." In this context, it signifies Pharaoh's active and persistent elevation of himself and his own will above God's command. It implies a deliberate, defiant resistance, as if building a barrier against the divine purpose, rather than a passive refusal. Pharaoh is not merely stubborn; he is actively setting himself up as an adversary to the Almighty.
Meaning "a people (as a congregated unit)," specifically a tribe or a flock. Here, "my people" emphasizes God's unique covenant relationship with Israel, asserting His divine ownership and protection over them. Pharaoh's oppression of Israel is, therefore, not merely an act against a group of slaves, but a direct affront to God Himself, challenging His authority over His chosen nation.
A primitive root meaning "to send away, for, or out." This word encapsulates God's fundamental and oft-repeated demand: "Let my people go!" Pharaoh's persistent refusal to "send away" or "release" Israel is presented as the culmination of his self-exaltation and the direct cause of the ongoing divine judgments. It highlights the simplicity and clarity of God's command versus the complexity and defiance of Pharaoh's resistance.
Verse Breakdown
"As yet exaltest thou thyself against my people,"
This opening clause is a powerful rhetorical question designed to expose Pharaoh's profound pride and his perceived authority over God's chosen people. The phrase "As yet" emphasizes the prolonged nature of Pharaoh's defiance, despite the numerous plagues and overwhelming evidence of God's power. Pharaoh's "self-exaltation" is presented as the very root of his rebellion, an active setting of himself against the divine will and ownership of Israel. It suggests a deliberate act of elevating his own power and will above God's, viewing himself as superior even to the Almighty. This defiance is the direct reason for the continuing judgment.
"that thou wilt not let them go?"
This concluding clause reiterates God's fundamental demand, first issued in Exodus 5:1. Pharaoh's continued refusal is not merely a political stance but a direct affront to God's will and purpose. The question underscores Pharaoh's culpability and the deliberate, willful nature of his rebellion. It highlights the simple, clear command that Pharaoh persistently disobeys, thereby inviting further divine judgment. The ongoing suffering in Egypt is thus presented as a direct consequence of Pharaoh's stubbornness and his refusal to comply with God's just demand.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message. The most prominent is the Rhetorical Question, "As yet exaltest thou thyself against my people, that thou wilt not let them go?" This is not a request for information, but a forceful accusation designed to highlight Pharaoh's culpability and the deliberate nature of his rebellion. It serves to emphasize God's full awareness of Pharaoh's heart and actions, underscoring the righteousness of the impending judgments. There is also evident Contrast between Pharaoh's self-exaltation and God's ultimate authority and ownership of His people. Pharaoh attempts to elevate himself, but in doing so, he directly opposes the Almighty, setting up a dramatic clash of wills. Furthermore, the phrase "my people" is an example of Possession, emphasizing God's covenant relationship and divine ownership over Israel, making Pharaoh's oppression an act of direct rebellion against God Himself. Finally, the verse carries a strong element of Irony, as Pharaoh's efforts to exalt himself ultimately lead to his profound humiliation and the greater exaltation of Yahweh's name throughout the earth.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Exodus 9:17 serves as a powerful testament to God's unyielding sovereignty and His righteous judgment against human defiance. It underscores that true authority belongs to God alone, and any attempt by humanity to exalt itself against His will is an act of rebellion that will inevitably lead to severe consequences. Pharaoh's persistent pride is presented as the root cause of his resistance and the escalating divine judgments, illustrating a universal biblical truth: pride precedes destruction. Despite Pharaoh's stubbornness, God's purpose to deliver His people remains firm, demonstrating His faithfulness to His covenant and His determination to make His name known throughout all the earth.
Reflection and Application
Exodus 9:17 serves as a timeless and convicting reminder of the severe consequences that stem from pride and defiant resistance against God's revealed will. Just as Pharaoh's persistent stubbornness led to increasing judgment upon himself and his nation, so too does resistance to divine authority in our lives invite negative outcomes and hinder God's perfect plan for us. This verse calls us to profound humility and swift submission to God's revealed will, recognizing that true freedom and flourishing come not from asserting our own will, but from aligning ourselves completely with His purposes. It also highlights God's incredible patience, even in the face of persistent rebellion, but ultimately His unwavering commitment to His purposes and His people. We are assured that God's power will prevail, always bringing about His promised deliverance and redemption, even when human opposition seems insurmountable.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does God ask "As yet exaltest thou thyself?" if He already knows Pharaoh's heart?
This question is rhetorical, serving not as an inquiry for information, but as a direct accusation and a declaration of Pharaoh's culpability. It highlights the deliberate and active nature of Pharaoh's rebellion and underscores the justice of the impending judgments. God's omniscience means He doesn't need to ask for information; rather, He asks to expose Pharaoh's sin, to make clear the basis for His righteous actions, and to demonstrate that Pharaoh's continued defiance is willful and without excuse. It is a divine pronouncement of guilt, not a query.
What is the significance of God referring to Israel as "my people" in this context?
By calling Israel "my people," God emphasizes His unique covenant relationship and ownership over them. Pharaoh's refusal to release them is not merely an act of political defiance against Moses or Israel, but a direct affront to God Himself. This phrase reinforces God's divine authority and His unwavering commitment to protect and deliver His chosen nation, making Pharaoh's oppression a direct challenge to the Almighty. It establishes the theological framework for the entire Exodus narrative: this is a conflict between Yahweh and Pharaoh over Yahweh's treasured possession.
Does Pharaoh's continued defiance imply God is not powerful enough to force him?
Absolutely not. Exodus 9:16 explicitly states that God raised up Pharaoh and allowed his stubbornness to persist precisely to display His power and make His name known throughout the earth. God could have instantly crushed Pharaoh, but chose to demonstrate His might through a series of escalating judgments, revealing His patience, justice, and ultimate sovereignty over all human resistance. Pharaoh's defiance was part of God's sovereign plan to magnify His glory and to demonstrate His absolute power over all earthly rulers and false gods, ensuring that His name would be proclaimed in all the earth.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Exodus 9:17, with its vivid depiction of Pharaoh's defiant self-exaltation against God and His people, powerfully foreshadows humanity's universal rebellion against divine authority. Just as Pharaoh held Israel in oppressive bondage, humanity is held captive by the more insidious power of sin and death. However, God's unwavering commitment to deliver His people from Egypt points directly to the greater, ultimate deliverance wrought by Jesus Christ. Unlike Pharaoh, who exalted himself, Christ "made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness" (Philippians 2:7), humbling Himself even to death on a cross (Philippians 2:8). Through His atoning sacrifice and victorious resurrection, Jesus triumphed over the ultimate oppressors—sin, death, and Satan—achieving the eternal "let my people go" for all who believe. He is the true and final Deliverer, who by His humility, obedience, and ultimate sacrifice, secured eternal freedom and brought His people out of the dominion of darkness into His glorious kingdom (Colossians 1:13-14), fulfilling the pattern of redemption initiated in the Exodus and demonstrating God's power to save to the uttermost.