What number verse is Exodus 9:19 in the Bible?

Exodus 9:19 is the 1,762nd verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 9:19 sits at position 1,762.

Translation

King James Version

Send therefore now, and gather thy cattle, and all that thou hast in the field; for upon every man and beast which shall be found in the field, and shall not be brought home, the hail shall come down upon them, and they shall die.

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KJV (with Strong's)

Send ^H7971 therefore now, and gather ^H5756 thy cattle ^H4735, and all that thou hast in the field ^H7704; for upon every man ^H120 and beast ^H929 which shall be found ^H4672 in the field ^H7704, and shall not be brought ^H622 home ^H1004, the hail ^H1259 shall come down ^H3381 upon them, and they shall die ^H4191.

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Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore, send and hurry to bring indoors all your livestock and everything else you have in the field. For hail will fall on every human being and animal left in the field that hasn't been brought home, and they will die."'"

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Berean Standard Bible

So give orders now to shelter your livestock and everything you have in the field. Every man or beast that remains in the field and is not brought inside will die when the hail comes down upon them.’”

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American Standard Version

Now therefore send, hasten in thy cattle and all that thou hast in the field; for every man and beast that shall be found in the field, and shall not be brought home, the hail shall come down upon them, and they shall die.

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World English Bible Messianic

Now therefore command that all of your livestock and all that you have in the field be brought into shelter. Every man and animal that is found in the field, and isn’t brought home, the hail shall come down on them, and they shall die.”’”

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Geneva Bible (1599)

Send therefore nowe, and gather the cattell, and all that thou hast in the fielde: for vpon all the men, and the beastes, which are found in the field, and not brought home, the haile shall fall vpon them, and they shall die.

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Young's Literal Translation

`And, now, send, strengthen thy cattle and all that thou hast in the field; every man and beast which is found in the field, and is not gathered into the house--come down on them hath the hail, and they have died.'

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Exodus 9:19 records a critical divine warning issued by God through Moses to Pharaoh and the Egyptians, commanding them to swiftly gather all people and livestock from the open fields. This urgent instruction precedes the devastating seventh plague of hail, explicitly stating that death will befall any man or beast left exposed. The verse profoundly illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over creation, His righteous judgment against defiance, and His remarkable mercy in providing a clear path to safety amidst impending wrath, distinguishing between those who would heed His word and those who would remain in stubborn rebellion.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Exodus 9:19 is strategically positioned within the escalating narrative of the plagues, serving as a crucial turning point before the seventh plague, the devastating hail. Prior plagues, such as the plague of boils (Exodus 9:9-11) and the plague of flies (Exodus 8:20-24), had already showcased God's immense power and Pharaoh's hardened resistance. This particular warning stands out because it offers a direct opportunity for the Egyptians to save themselves and their property, creating a clear distinction between those who would believe God's word and those who would remain defiant. Unlike previous plagues that affected specific targets or areas, this warning implies a universal threat to all outside, emphasizing the severity and breadth of the impending judgment. It also sets the stage for the subsequent plagues, highlighting Pharaoh's increasing culpability as he repeatedly rejects divine mercy.
Historical & Cultural Context: Ancient Egypt was an agrarian society, heavily reliant on its crops and livestock. The "field" (sâdeh, H7704) was central to their economy and survival. The plagues were not random acts but direct assaults on the Egyptian pantheon, demonstrating Yahweh's supremacy over their gods. Specifically, the hail plague would have challenged deities like Nut (sky goddess), Shu (air god), and Osiris (god of fertility and agriculture), whose domains were directly impacted. The warning to gather people and cattle into "home" (bayith, H1004) underscores the vulnerability of life exposed to the elements and the protective nature of shelter. This context amplifies the divine power displayed, as a natural phenomenon like hail is wielded with supernatural precision and destructive force, targeting those who ignore God's explicit command.
Key Themes: This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Exodus. It powerfully underscores Divine Sovereignty, demonstrating God's absolute control over natural phenomena and His ability to orchestrate events with precision, contrasting sharply with the impotence of Egypt's gods. It highlights God's Justice and Mercy, as judgment is meticulously executed, yet preceded by a clear warning and a path to escape for those who choose to obey. The theme of Choice and Consequence is prominent, as the outcome for individuals (life or death) hinges directly on their response to God's command. This also develops the theme of Pharaoh's Hardening, as his continued defiance despite such clear warnings and opportunities for repentance further illustrates his obstinacy and God's righteous judgment against it. The verse also subtly introduces the theme of Salvation by Faith, as those Egyptians who believed God's word and acted upon it were spared, foreshadowing a broader principle seen throughout biblical history, as seen in passages like Genesis 7:1-5.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Exodus 9:19 delivers a direct, urgent, and life-or-death divine command, signaling the immediate imminence and severity of the seventh plague.

Key Word Analysis

Send (Hebrew, shâlach', H7971): Meaning "to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)." In this context, it signifies a divine imperative, a direct command from God through Moses to Pharaoh. It implies an authoritative dispatch, not merely a suggestion, underscoring the urgency and the source of the instruction. God is actively initiating this final warning before judgment.
Gather (Hebrew, ʼâçaph', H622): Meaning "to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e. remove." This word conveys the necessity of immediate and comprehensive collection. It's not a casual suggestion but a command to bring in all vulnerable life and property from the exposed "field" (sâdeh, H7704), emphasizing the protective action required to avert disaster. The urgency is inherent in the command to "gather now."
Hail (Hebrew, bârâd', H1259): Meaning "hail; hail(stones)." This is not ordinary precipitation but a divinely orchestrated, destructive force. The term implies heavy, pounding, and lethal ice, signifying a judgment that is both precise in its target (anything in the field) and devastating in its effect. It highlights God's power over the natural elements, turning a common weather phenomenon into an instrument of His wrath.
Die (Hebrew, mûwth', H4191): Meaning "to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill." This word is the stark consequence of disobedience. It emphasizes the absolute and certain outcome for those who ignore God's warning. The finality of "they shall die" underscores the severity of God's judgment and the ultimate stakes involved in heeding or rejecting His word.

Verse Breakdown

"Send therefore now, and gather thy cattle, and all that thou hast in the field;": This opening clause is a direct divine injunction, conveyed through Moses, demanding immediate action. The phrase "Send therefore now" emphasizes the urgency, indicating that time is of the essence. The command to "gather thy cattle, and all that thou hast in the field" is comprehensive, encompassing both valuable livestock (which formed the basis of Egyptian wealth and sustenance) and any other possessions or people exposed in the open. This highlights God's initiative in providing a clear, actionable warning, even to His adversaries, offering a chance for preservation amidst impending judgment.
"[for upon] every man and beast which shall be found in the field, and shall not be brought home, the hail shall come down upon them, and they shall die.": This clause details the precise and severe consequences of failing to heed the divine instruction. The specificity—"every man and beast which shall be found in the field"—underscores the exactness of God's judgment; it would not be indiscriminate but would target only those who remained exposed due to disobedience. The phrase "shall not be brought home" defines the condition for judgment, emphasizing that the danger lay in neglect of the warning. The impending "hail shall come down upon them" signifies the direct, divinely orchestrated nature of the plague, not a random natural event. Finally, "and they shall die" declares the certain and lethal outcome, emphasizing the absolute power of God's word and the dire consequences of defiance.

Literary Devices

Exodus 9:19 employs several potent literary devices. The most prominent is Divine Command, delivered with urgent authority, demanding immediate action from Pharaoh and his people. This command is simultaneously a Warning, clearly articulating the dire consequences of disobedience (death by hail) and providing a path to safety. This creates a stark Contrast between life and death, preservation and destruction, based entirely on one's response to God's word. The precise nature of the warning and its targeted outcome also demonstrate Divine Sovereignty over creation, as God controls the elements with absolute precision. Furthermore, the verse contains an element of Foreshadowing, as the principle of salvation through heeding a divine warning and taking refuge prefigures later biblical themes of salvation by faith and obedience.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Exodus 9:19 is a profound theological statement, revealing God's character and principles of interaction with humanity. Even in the midst of escalating judgment against Pharaoh's stubbornness, God extends a merciful warning, offering a clear path to safety for those who would heed it. This demonstrates that God's justice is always tempered with an opportunity for repentance or escape, ensuring that judgment is never arbitrary but a consequence of willful defiance. The precise nature of the impending hail, affecting only those exposed, underscores God's absolute control over natural forces, contrasting sharply with the impotence of the Egyptian deities and affirming His unique sovereignty. The verse thus presents a stark choice between obedience, leading to preservation, and disobedience, leading to destruction, underscoring the universal principle of divine accountability and the efficacy of God's word.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Exodus 9:19 serves as a timeless reminder that God often provides clear warnings before judgment, both in ancient history and in our contemporary lives. Just as the Egyptians had a chance to save their livestock and lives by heeding God's specific instructions, we are called to pay attention to God's warnings found in Scripture, through the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and even through the natural consequences of sin. Ignoring these divine warnings can lead to devastating outcomes, while heeding them can bring protection, preservation, and spiritual flourishing. This verse powerfully highlights God's ultimate power over all things, assuring us that those who trust in Him and obey His word can find refuge and protection from life's storms, whether literal or metaphorical. It challenges us to consider our own responsiveness to God's voice and to act decisively in obedience, knowing that His warnings are always an act of mercy, reflecting His patience and His desire for all to come to repentance rather than perishing.

Questions for Reflection

In what areas of my life might God be issuing a warning that I have been slow to heed?
How does this passage deepen my understanding of God's justice and His mercy?
What practical steps can I take to cultivate a greater responsiveness to God's word and warnings in my daily life?

FAQ

Why did God warn the Egyptians if He intended to harden Pharaoh's heart?

Answer: God's warning in Exodus 9:19 demonstrates His multifaceted character, simultaneously revealing His justice and His mercy. While God did harden Pharaoh's heart to display His power and glory, and to ensure the full revelation of His might to both Egypt and Israel, He simultaneously offered a clear path of escape to the Egyptian people. This warning served multiple purposes: it provided a genuine opportunity for any individual Egyptian to respond in faith and obedience, thereby distinguishing between those who would believe God's word and those who would not, regardless of their nationality. It further highlighted Pharaoh's extreme stubbornness and the righteousness of God's judgment, showing that even in judgment, God is just and provides a way out for those who would choose it. This principle is consistent with God's character throughout Scripture, where warnings often precede judgment, offering a chance for repentance or refuge, as seen in Ezekiel 33:11.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Exodus 9:19, with its divine warning and provision of escape from impending physical judgment, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Just as God provided a physical refuge from the devastating hail, Christ is the ultimate spiritual refuge from the wrath to come, the judgment against sin. The command to "gather thy cattle, and all that thou hast in the field" prefigures Christ's compassionate call to "gather" all who believe into His fold, offering salvation from the ultimate and eternal judgment of sin. He is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep, bearing the full force of divine wrath on the cross, allowing all who take refuge in Him to be spared (as highlighted in Romans 5:9). Through Christ, God's mercy is fully revealed, providing not just a temporary reprieve from a physical plague, but eternal deliverance from sin, death, and the coming judgment for all who heed His call, believe in His atoning work, and find their "home" in Him (as promised in John 3:16 and Hebrews 6:18). He is the one who gathers His people, just as a hen gathers her chicks, offering protection from the storm of divine justice (a sentiment echoed in Matthew 23:37).

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Commentary on Exodus 9 verses 13–21

13 ¶ And the LORD said unto Moses, Rise up early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may serve me.

14 For I will at this time send all my plagues upon thine heart, and upon thy servants, and upon thy people; that thou mayest know that there is none like me in all the earth.

15 For now I will stretch out my hand, that I may smite thee and thy people with pestilence; and thou shalt be cut off from the earth.

16 And in very deed for this cause have I raised thee up, for to shew in thee my power; and that my name may be declared throughout all the earth.

17 As yet exaltest thou thyself against my people, that thou wilt not let them go?

18 Behold, to morrow about this time I will cause it to rain a very grievous hail, such as hath not been in Egypt since the foundation thereof even until now.

19 Send therefore now, and gather thy cattle, and all that thou hast in the field; for upon every man and beast which shall be found in the field, and shall not be brought home, the hail shall come down upon them, and they shall die.

20 He that feared the word of the LORD among the servants of Pharaoh made his servants and his cattle flee into the houses:

21 And he that regarded not the word of the LORD left his servants and his cattle in the field.

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.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 13–21. Public domain.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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