Exodus 10:20
But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, so that he would not let the children of Israel go.
Original Language Analysis
וַיְחַזֵּ֥ק
hardened
H2388
וַיְחַזֵּ֥ק
hardened
Strong's:
H2388
Word #:
1 of 10
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
יְהוָ֖ה
But the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
But the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 10
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
לֵ֣ב
heart
H3820
לֵ֣ב
heart
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
4 of 10
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
וְלֹ֥א
H3808
וְלֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
שִׁלַּ֖ח
go
H7971
שִׁלַּ֖ח
go
Strong's:
H7971
Word #:
7 of 10
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
8 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Cross References
Exodus 4:21And the LORD said unto Moses, When thou goest to return into Egypt, see that thou do all those wonders before Pharaoh, which I have put in thine hand: but I will harden his heart, that he shall not let the people go.Exodus 11:10And Moses and Aaron did all these wonders before Pharaoh: and the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, so that he would not let the children of Israel go out of his land.Deuteronomy 2:30But Sihon king of Heshbon would not let us pass by him: for the LORD thy God hardened his spirit, and made his heart obstinate, that he might deliver him into thy hand, as appeareth this day.
Historical Context
Osiris ruled agriculture and resurrection, while Isis protected crops. Locusts were ancient Near Eastern terror, but this swarm's density exceeded natural plague. The total devastation left Egypt economically ruined.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God demonstrate His power through natural means taken to supernatural extremes?
- What does Pharaoh's servants' fear teach about recognizing God's hand in judgment?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Verse 20 describes the locust plague, targeting Osiris (agriculture god) and Isis (grain goddess). Moses warns locusts will 'cover the face of the earth' and devour everything the hail left. Pharaoh's servants beg him to relent, recognizing Egypt's destruction.