“And Pharaoh called unto Moses, and said, Go ye, serve the LORD; only let your flocks and your herds be stayed: let your little ones also go with you.”
This verse is part of the narrative of the ten plagues of Egypt, specifically during the plague of darkness.
In this context, Moses, representing the Israelites, had been persistently requesting Pharaoh to let the people go into the wilderness to worship the Lord God.
Pharaoh had been reluctant and had repeatedly denied Moses’ request.
However, under the pressure of the devastating plague of darkness, Pharaoh finally shows some signs of yielding to Moses’ demand.
In this particular verse, we see Pharaoh summoning Moses and acknowledging that the Israelites can go and serve the Lord.
However, he adds a condition: only their flocks and herds should remain behind.
Pharaoh was trying to retain some control over the situation by holding their valuable possessions as collateral or perhaps as a means to ensure their return.
From a broader perspective, this verse reveals Pharaoh’s continued resistance and reluctance to fully submit to the will of God.
Although he is willing to make a concession and allow the Israelites to go, he still wants to maintain a measure of power and control over them.
This verse also highlights the theme of God’s deliverance and His ultimate authority over Pharaoh and the entire situation.
Despite Pharaoh’s attempts to dictate the terms, it is God’s plan that will prevail and lead the Israelites to their freedom.
As we continue reading the subsequent verses, we see that Moses does not agree to Pharaoh’s terms.
He insists that they must take their livestock with them because they need them for sacrifices and offerings to the Lord.
Pharaoh’s reluctant agreement is short‑lived, as he hardens his heart once again and refuses to let the Israelites go.
This leads to the occurrence of the final plague, the death of the firstborn, which ultimately prompts Pharaoh to release the Israelites.
Overall, Exodus 10:24 portrays the ongoing struggle between Pharaoh’s resistance and God’s sovereign power.
It reminds us of the importance of submitting to God’s will completely and not attempting to negotiate or retain control when He calls us to follow Him.
It also teaches us about God’s faithfulness in delivering His people from oppression and fulfilling His promises in His perfect timing.
