Exodus 10:18

And he went out from Pharaoh, and intreated the LORD.

And he went out {H3318} from Pharaoh {H6547}, and intreated {H6279} the LORD {H3068}.

He went out from Pharaoh and interceded with ADONAI.

So Moses left Pharaoh’s presence and appealed to the LORD.

And he went out from Pharaoh, and entreated Jehovah.

Commentary

Context

This verse describes a crucial moment in the narrative of the plagues God brought upon Egypt, specifically following the devastating eighth plague of locusts. Pharaoh, overwhelmed by the destruction and the severity of the judgment, had just called for Moses and Aaron, confessing his sin and pleading with them to "intreat the LORD your God, that he may take away from me this death only" (Exodus 10:17). Moses' action in this verse is a direct response to Pharaoh's desperate request, highlighting his role as God's appointed messenger and intercessor.

Key Themes

  • Intercession and Mediation: Moses immediately acts as a mediator between God and Pharaoh. Despite the Egyptians' oppression of the Israelites, Moses faithfully fulfills his role as a prophet, praying on behalf of their oppressor. This demonstrates a profound example of intercessory prayer.
  • God's Responsive Power: Moses' prayer is not in vain. The subsequent verses reveal God's immediate and powerful response to Moses' supplication, removing the locusts as promised (Exodus 10:19). This underscores God's sovereignty over creation and His direct involvement in human affairs.
  • Pharaoh's Wavering and Hardened Heart: While Pharaoh momentarily appears contrite, his pattern throughout the plagues is one of temporary repentance followed by a hardening of his heart once the immediate crisis passes. Moses' consistent obedience in prayer contrasts sharply with Pharaoh's persistent rebellion, even in the face of overwhelming divine power.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "intreated the LORD" comes from the Hebrew verb palal (פָּלַל), which literally means "to pray" or "to intercede." It signifies a formal, earnest plea or supplication, often involving a sense of seeking judgment or making a fervent appeal to God. Moses' action here is not a casual request but a serious and heartfelt appeal to the Almighty for intervention, emphasizing the solemnity and efficacy of true prayer.

Practical Application

  • The Power of Prayer: This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance and effectiveness of prayer, especially intercessory prayer. Moses' example encourages believers to pray for others, even those who may oppose them or God's will, trusting in God's ability to respond.
  • Compassion in Adversity: Moses demonstrates compassion and obedience even when dealing with an oppressive ruler. His willingness to pray for Pharaoh's relief, despite the ongoing conflict, challenges us to act with grace and righteousness, even towards those who wrong us.
  • God's Justice and Mercy: The narrative of the plagues, including this moment, beautifully illustrates the tension between God's long-suffering mercy in providing opportunities for repentance and His unwavering commitment to justice and the liberation of His people.
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Cross-References

  • Exodus 8:28 (2 votes)

    And Pharaoh said, I will let you go, that ye may sacrifice to the LORD your God in the wilderness; only ye shall not go very far away: intreat for me.

  • Exodus 8:30 (2 votes)

    And Moses went out from Pharaoh, and intreated the LORD.

  • Exodus 8:9 (2 votes)

    And Moses said unto Pharaoh, Glory over me: when shall I intreat for thee, and for thy servants, and for thy people, to destroy the frogs from thee and thy houses, [that] they may remain in the river only?

  • Matthew 5:44 (2 votes)

    But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

  • Luke 6:28 (2 votes)

    Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.