Exodus 9:32

Exodus 9:32, from the King James Version, provides a specific detail within the narrative of the seventh plague upon Egypt—the devastating plague of hail.

Context

This verse immediately follows the description of the hail's destructive power, which "smote throughout all the land of Egypt all that was in the field, both man and beast; and smote every herb of the field, and brake every tree of the field" (Exodus 9:25). While other crops like flax and barley were ruined because they were already "bolled" or "in the ear" (Exodus 9:31), the wheat and rye were spared. This distinction highlights God's precise control over the plague, demonstrating that even in judgment, there was a calculated aspect to the destruction. This temporary reprieve for these particular crops also set the stage for subsequent judgments, specifically the plague of locusts, which would later consume what the hail had left (Exodus 10:15).

Key Themes

• Divine Precision and Sovereignty: The sparing of specific crops underscores God's absolute control over natural forces and the meticulous nature of His judgments. It wasn't random destruction but targeted, revealing His intimate knowledge of Egypt's agricultural cycle and a deliberate plan for each plague.
• Agricultural Cycles in Ancient Egypt: The verse implicitly educates the reader about the different growing seasons of various crops in ancient Egypt. Flax and barley matured earlier in the spring, while wheat and rye were later crops, typically harvested in late spring or early summer. This detail serves as a testament to the historical accuracy of the biblical account.
• Mercy Amidst Judgment: Although severe, the plague of hail was not utterly annihilating. The sparing of wheat and rye offered a temporary measure of potential sustenance for the Egyptians, showcasing a thread of God's mercy even in the midst of His wrath, or at least a strategic delay for further demonstration of His power.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV term "rie" refers to spelt, a type of wheat common in ancient Egypt. The phrase "not grown up" (Hebrew: לֹא אָבֹת, lo' avot) literally means "not ripe" or "not yet strong/developed." It indicates that these crops were still in an early stage of growth, possibly even below ground or just sprouting, rendering them unaffected by the hail that destroyed more mature plants.

Practical Application

Exodus 9:32 reminds us that God's actions are always purposeful and precise. Even in moments of judgment or difficulty, there can be specific details that reveal His character—His power, His knowledge, and even His measured restraint. This verse can encourage believers to trust in God's perfect timing and His detailed involvement in the world, knowing that His plans unfold with deliberate intention, whether in judgment or blessing. It illustrates that God does as He pleases in heaven and on earth, controlling even the smallest details of creation.