Exodus 10:6
And they shall fill thy houses, and the houses of all thy seruants, and the houses of all the Egyptians, which neither thy fathers, nor thy fathers fathers haue seene, since the day that they were vpon the earth, vnto this day. And he turned himselfe, and went out from Pharaoh. Exodus 10:6 (KJV)
In the book of Exodus the Israelites were held in bondage as slaves in Egypt. Moses, appointed by God, confronted Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, and demanded the release of the Israelites. Pharaoh repeatedly refused to let them go, despite experiencing various plagues as a consequence.
The verse highlights the severity and uniqueness of the plague of locusts that was about to come upon Egypt. It mentions that neither Pharaoh’s fathers nor his fathers’ fathers had witnessed anything like it before, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the event and indicating that it would surpass any previous experience or knowledge.
Prior to the locust plague Moses warned Pharaoh in Exodus 10:4‑5, saying, “For if thou refuse to let my people go, behold, tomorrow will I bring the locusts into thy coast: And they shall cover the face of the earth so that one cannot see the earth.” The description in Exodus 10:6 shows that the warning was being fulfilled, as the locusts were about to fill the houses of the Egyptians, demonstrating that God’s words are true and cannot be disregarded.
The plague of locusts was a demonstration of God’s authority over creation. By allowing the locusts to fill the houses of the Egyptians, including Pharaoh’s house and the houses of his servants, God displayed His power over the land and its inhabitants. This event showcased that the God of the Israelites could bring both judgment and control over natural forces.
Even after witnessing the devastation brought by earlier plagues, Pharaoh’s heart remained hardened. The verse records that Moses “turned himself, and went out from Pharaoh,” portraying the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart and his refusal to submit to the will of God.
The account of the plagues teaches important lessons. It reminds us of the consequences of pride and disobedience. Pharaoh’s unwillingness to submit to God’s command resulted in suffering for his people and the land of Egypt. Likewise, we should be mindful of the state of our hearts, humble ourselves before God, acknowledge His authority, and follow His will.
In conclusion, Exodus 10:6 emphasizes the severity and uniqueness of the locust plague, highlights God’s authority and power, and portrays Pharaoh’s persistent resistance. Reflecting on this passage encourages humility, obedience, and awareness of the consequences of pride.
