Exodus 10:27

Authorized King James Version

But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he would not let them go.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְחַזֵּ֥ק
hardened
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
#2
יְהוָ֖ה
But the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
לֵ֣ב
heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#5
פַּרְעֹ֑ה
Pharaoh's
paroh, a general title of egyptian kings
#6
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
אָבָ֖ה
H14
and he would
to breathe after, i.e., (figuratively) to be acquiescent
#8
לְשַׁלְּחָֽם׃
not let them go
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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