“And the Lord said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, even darkness which may be felt.”
Exodus 10:21 is a verse that describes the ninth plague that God inflicted upon Egypt in the process of delivering the Israelites from their bondage. This plague was a dense darkness that covered the entire land of Egypt for three days, except for the dwellings of the Israelites.
Context:Prior to this event, Moses had confronted Pharaoh multiple times, urging him to let the Israelites go and worship God. However, Pharaoh had hardened his heart and refused to release the Israelites from slavery. As a result, God sent a series of plagues upon Egypt as a demonstration of His power and to persuade Pharaoh to let His people go.
Darkness:In this particular plague, God brought an extraordinary darkness that was so thick it could be felt. This darkness was a supernatural occurrence, extending beyond a mere absence of light. It was a palpable, tangible darkness that engulfed the land, causing a sense of oppression and dread. The darkness was a physical manifestation of God’s judgment upon Egypt and a demonstration of His sovereignty over creation.
Symbolism:This plague of darkness held symbolic significance as well. It represented the spiritual darkness and ignorance that characterised Egypt’s idolatrous society. It demonstrated the power of God over all creation, including the sun, which was worshipped as a deity by the Egyptians. It also foreshadowed the coming spiritual liberation that the Israelites would experience as they were delivered from Egypt and entered into the Promised Land.
Distinction:One notable aspect of this plague is that it affected only the land of Egypt. Goshen, the region where the Israelites resided, was exempt from the darkness. This differentiation emphasised God’s protection and favour upon His chosen people. It underscored the distinction between the Israelites and the Egyptians and affirmed God’s faithfulness in safeguarding His own.
Lessons for us:The darkness in Exodus 10:21 serves as a reminder of the consequences of opposing God’s will and hardening one’s heart against Him. It also highlights the power of God to bring both physical and spiritual darkness, demonstrating His authority over creation and His ability to execute judgment. Ultimately, it points to the importance of seeking God’s light and guidance in our lives and embracing His deliverance from darkness into the light of His truth and salvation.
In summary, Exodus 10:21 recounts the plague of darkness sent by God upon Egypt. This verse reminds us of God’s power, His judgment upon those who oppose Him, and the distinction between those who walk in His light and those who dwell in darkness.
