Exodus 9:25

And the hail smote throughout all the land of Egypt all that [was] in the field, both man and beast; and the hail smote every herb of the field, and brake every tree of the field.

And the hail {H1259} smote {H5221} throughout all the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714} all that was in the field {H7704}, both man {H120} and beast {H929}; and the hail {H1259} smote {H5221} every herb {H6212} of the field {H7704}, and brake {H7665} every tree {H6086} of the field {H7704}.

Throughout all the land of Egypt, the hail struck everything in the field, people and animals; and the hail struck every plant growing in the field and broke every tree there.

Throughout the land of Egypt, the hail struck down everything in the field, both man and beast; it beat down every plant of the field and stripped every tree.

And the hail smote throughout all the land of Egypt all that was in the field, both man and beast; and the hail smote every herb of the field, and brake every tree of the field.

Commentary

Exodus 9:25 describes the devastating impact of the seventh plague unleashed upon ancient Egypt: a severe hailstorm unlike anything they had ever witnessed. This verse vividly portrays the comprehensive destruction wrought by God's judgment, affecting all life and vegetation in the open fields.

Context

This verse is situated within the dramatic narrative of the ten plagues of Egypt, which God sent to compel Pharaoh to release the enslaved Israelites. The hail plague, the seventh in the series, followed earlier judgments such as the transformation of water to blood, frogs, gnats, flies, a pestilence on livestock, and boils. Unlike previous plagues, this one came with a specific warning from the Lord through Moses to Pharaoh, giving anyone who believed an opportunity to bring their servants and livestock indoors to safety (see Exodus 9:18-21). The verse underscores the severity of God's hand against a stubborn Pharaoh and a defiant Egypt, highlighting the divine distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites, as the land of Goshen, where the Israelites dwelled, was miraculously spared from the hail (Exodus 9:26).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Judgment and Power: The plague of hail was not a natural phenomenon but a direct, supernatural act of God, demonstrating His absolute sovereignty over creation and His intention to judge those who oppose His will. It was a clear display of the God of Israel's power, far exceeding the capabilities of Egypt's gods.
  • Severity of Disobedience: The escalating intensity of the plagues, culminating in such widespread destruction, illustrates the severe consequences of Pharaoh's continued refusal to obey God's command. Each plague served to harden Pharaoh's heart further, yet also to reveal God's glory.
  • Comprehensive Devastation: The verse emphasizes the total destruction: "both man and beast" in the field were struck down, and "every herb of the field" and "every tree of the field" were destroyed. This highlights the economic and agricultural ruin brought upon Egypt, crippling their ability to sustain themselves and further pressure Pharaoh.
  • God's Distinction and Protection: Amidst the widespread devastation, God's ability to protect His own is powerfully demonstrated. The fact that the hail did not fall on Goshen serves as a powerful reminder of God's covenant faithfulness and His ability to shield His people from judgment.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "smote" comes from the Hebrew verb nakah (Χ ΦΈΧ›ΦΈΧ”), which means to strike, to hit, or to wound, often with a destructive or deadly force. This choice of word emphasizes the direct, forceful, and destructive nature of God's intervention, rather than merely suggesting a passive weather event. The term "hail" (Hebrew barad - Χ‘ΦΈΦΌΧ¨ΦΈΧ“) itself carries the connotation of a severe, destructive precipitation.

Practical Application

Exodus 9:25 serves as a powerful reminder of God's omnipotence and His justice. It teaches us that:

  • God is Sovereign: He controls the natural world and orchestrates events to fulfill His purposes. We are called to recognize His supreme authority over all creation, including the weather and human affairs.
  • There Are Consequences for Rebellion: Persistent defiance against God's clear commands leads to severe consequences. This serves as a timeless warning to individuals and nations.
  • God Protects His Own: Even in times of widespread judgment or calamity, God provides a way of escape and protection for those who are obedient to Him. This offers comfort and assurance to believers.
  • Heed Warnings: Just as Pharaoh was warned, God often gives warnings through His Word or circumstances, urging repentance and obedience. Ignoring these warnings can lead to dire outcomes. The severity of this judgment also foreshadows future divine judgments described in prophecy, such as the great hail mentioned in Revelation 16:21.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Psalms 105:32

    He gave them hail for rain, [and] flaming fire in their land.

  • Psalms 105:33

    He smote their vines also and their fig trees; and brake the trees of their coasts.

  • Psalms 78:47

    He destroyed their vines with hail, and their sycomore trees with frost.
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