Exodus 9:15

For now I will stretch out my hand, that I may smite thee and thy people with pestilence; and thou shalt be cut off from the earth.

Exodus 9:15 (KJV)

Context

This verse stands in the middle of the ten plagues that God sent upon Egypt. Pharaoh had refused to let the Israelites go, so God spoke through Moses to warn him of coming judgment. The earlier plague on livestock had already struck Egypt, and the warning of hail follows soon after. God’s words here show a progression of judgment against the oppressor.

Meaning

God declares, “I will stretch out my hand,” meaning He Himself would act directly. The word “pestilence” means a severe epidemic disease that brings death. “Thou shalt be cut off from the earth” means complete destruction. God had the power to wipe out Pharaoh and his people entirely. The Hebrew wording can also be read as “by now I could have stretched out my hand,” showing that God held back His full wrath. He chose to send plagues one by one, giving Pharaoh repeated chances to repent and obey.

Biblical connections

The phrase “stretch out my hand” appears earlier in Exodus, such as in Exodus 9:13, where God warns of the coming hail. This repeated language shows that God’s power is consistent and reliable. The plagues together demonstrate that the Lord rules over all creation, including the forces of nature and disease.

Application

God’s patience is not weakness. He could have destroyed Egypt at once, but He gave Pharaoh many opportunities to change. This teaches us that God’s delays are merciful, yet His judgment is certain if we persist in rebellion. We should not mistake God’s patience for approval of sin.

Reflection

God’s power is both a warning and a comfort. For those who oppose Him, it means certain judgment. For those who trust Him, it means He is able to save and protect. The same hand that could cut off Pharaoh is the hand that delivered Israel. We can rely on God’s strength in every situation.