"Send therefore now, and gather thy cattle, and all that thou hast in the field; for upon every man and beast which shall be found in the field, and shall not be brought home, the hail shall come down upon them, and they shall die."
This verse is part of the narrative in the book of Exodus, specifically during the time when God inflicted a series of plagues upon the land of Egypt to demonstrate His power and demand the release of the Israelites from their bondage.
Context:In the preceding verses, God had sent various plagues upon Egypt, including turning the water into blood, bringing forth frogs, and causing a plague of gnats. In Exodus 9:13-35, God announces the seventh plague, which is hail, and warns Pharaoh about its severity.
Divine Instruction:In Exodus 9:19, God instructs Moses to convey a message to Pharaoh. The message states that the people of Egypt should gather their livestock and everything that is in the field and bring them inside to safety. The reason given is that if any person or animal remains in the open field, they will be struck by the hail and die.
Significance:This verse highlights God’s mercy and warning amidst the impending plague. God, in His compassion, instructs the people of Egypt to take proactive measures to protect their possessions and lives. It demonstrates that even in the midst of His judgment, God provides an opportunity for repentance and escape from harm.
Symbolism:Throughout the book of Exodus, the plagues serve as both judgments upon the Egyptian gods and signs of God’s power over creation. In this specific case, hail was associated with the Egyptian god Nut, who was believed to control the weather. By sending hail, God not only demonstrates His authority over the natural elements but also challenges the false gods worshiped in Egypt.
Application:While Exodus 9:19 specifically addresses the people of Egypt in the context of the biblical narrative, we can draw spiritual lessons from this verse. It reminds us of the importance of heeding God’s warnings and taking necessary precautions in the face of impending judgment. It also teaches us about God’s mercy and His desire to spare us from harm, even when we may deserve punishment.
In conclusion, Exodus 9:19 provides insight into God’s instructions to the people of Egypt before sending the plague of hail. It reveals His mercy, His warning of impending judgment, and His desire for the people to take protective measures. As we study this verse, we can apply the principles of heeding God’s warnings, seeking His mercy, and recognizing His sovereignty over all things.
