Exodus 9:35

And the heart of Pharaoh was hardened, neither would he let the children of Israel go; as the Lord had spoken by Moses.

Exodus 9:35 (KJV)

Context

This verse closes the account of the seventh plague, the hail that struck Egypt with thunder and fire. Pharaoh had briefly confessed his sin and promised to release the Israelites, but once the plague stopped, he changed his mind. His refusal here matches what the Lord had foretold through Moses. The plague was severe, yet it did not produce lasting change in Pharaoh’s heart.

Meaning

The phrase “the heart of Pharaoh was hardened” shows that Pharaoh persisted in stubborn rebellion. Earlier, Pharaoh hardened his own heart, as in Exodus 8:15 and 9:34. Later, God is said to harden it, as in Exodus 9:12. Both truths appear in the same account, showing human responsibility and divine sovereignty working together. This is not arbitrary; it is judgment on Pharaoh’s prior rebellion. His temporary remorse and confession in Exodus 9:27 and 9:34 were reversed once the danger passed.

Biblical connections

The closing words, “as the LORD had spoken by Moses,” point to the certainty of God’s word. God had warned Moses that Pharaoh would not let the people go until His purposes were complete. This verse also prepares for the remaining plagues and the final deliverance of Israel. The pattern of hardening appears throughout Exodus, showing that God’s word through His servants is trustworthy and will be fulfilled exactly.

Application

Pharaoh’s temporary repentance warns us about the danger of resisting God’s repeated calls. A heart that ignores conviction grows harder over time. We should respond to God’s warnings quickly and sincerely, not wait until trouble passes. Persistent disobedience has serious consequences, so we must heed God’s voice while there is still time.

Reflection

God’s purposes cannot be stopped by human stubbornness. He used even Pharaoh’s resistance to display His power and to free His people. This verse encourages us to trust that God’s plan will stand, and it reminds us to keep our own hearts soft before Him. The same God who spoke through Moses is faithful to complete what He has promised.