Exodus 9:5

And the LORD appointed a set time, saying, To morrow the LORD shall do this thing in the land.

And the LORD {H3068} appointed {H7760} a set time {H4150}, saying {H559}, To morrow {H4279} the LORD {H3068} shall do {H6213} this thing {H1697} in the land {H776}.

ADONAI determined the exact time by saying, "Tomorrow ADONAI will do this in the land."

The LORD set a time, saying, “Tomorrow the LORD will do this in the land.”

And Jehovah appointed a set time, saying, To-morrow Jehovah shall do this thing in the land.

Commentary

Context

Exodus 9:5 is a pivotal verse within the narrative of the plagues upon Egypt, specifically introducing the fifth plague: the murrain (a severe pestilence) upon the livestock. Prior to this, Egypt had experienced plagues of blood, frogs, lice, and flies. Each plague served as a direct challenge to the gods of Egypt and a demonstration of the LORD's supreme power over Pharaoh and his kingdom. This verse highlights God's precise control, as He doesn't just promise judgment but sets an exact timeframe, emphasizing His deliberate and undeniable action against Pharaoh's continued refusal to let Israel go.

Key Themes

  • Divine Sovereignty and Control: The phrase "the LORD appointed a set time" powerfully underscores God's absolute command over all creation and events. He is not reactive but meticulously plans and executes His will, even down to the very day. This demonstrates God's complete sovereignty.
  • Fulfillment of God's Word: God's declaration of "To morrow the LORD shall do this thing" is a direct prophecy that is immediately fulfilled, as seen in Exodus 9:6. This consistent pattern throughout the plagues reinforces the reliability and truthfulness of God's spoken word.
  • Warning and Opportunity: By specifying "To morrow," God grants Pharaoh and the Egyptians a final, clear warning. It's an opportunity to acknowledge the LORD's power and release the Israelites, though Pharaoh's heart remains hardened, as described throughout the book of Exodus.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "appointed a set time" uses the word mo'ed (מוֹעֵד). While mo'ed can refer to a general appointed time, a meeting, or even a festival, in this context, it emphasizes a precise, fixed, and divinely determined moment. It signifies that God's actions are not random or impulsive but are part of a deliberate, pre-ordained plan, executed with perfect timing and precision. The simple declaration "To morrow" (מָחָר - machar) further emphasizes the immediacy and certainty of the impending judgment.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a powerful reminder for believers today that God is always in control. His plans are precise, and His timing is perfect. We can trust that when God makes a promise or issues a warning, He will fulfill it exactly as declared. It encourages us to take God's word seriously, to respond with obedience to His commands, and to find comfort in His unchanging nature amidst the uncertainties of life. Just as He demonstrated His power in Egypt, so too does He remain sovereign over all circumstances, working out His purposes in His own appointed time.

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 8:23 (3 votes)

    And I will put a division between my people and thy people: to morrow shall this sign be.

  • Job 24:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ Why, seeing times are not hidden from the Almighty, do they that know him not see his days?

  • Jeremiah 28:16 (2 votes)

    Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will cast thee from off the face of the earth: this year thou shalt die, because thou hast taught rebellion against the LORD.

  • Jeremiah 28:17 (2 votes)

    So Hananiah the prophet died the same year in the seventh month.

  • Matthew 27:63 (2 votes)

    Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.

  • Matthew 27:64 (2 votes)

    Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first.

  • Exodus 9:18 (2 votes)

    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.