Exodus 8 (KJV) recounts the ongoing confrontation between Moses and Pharaoh as they negotiate the release of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The chapter begins with Moses warning Pharaoh of a new plague—swarms of frogs that would invade every corner of Egypt. True to the prophecy, frogs cover the land, creeping into houses, beds, and ovens. Pharaoh, overwhelmed, begs Moses to intercede and remove the frogs, promising to let the Israelites go and offer sacrifices to God. Moses agrees and allows Pharaoh to choose the time when the frogs would be removed. Astonishingly, Pharaoh reneges on his word as soon as the frogs disappear, hardening his heart.
Pharaoh’s stubbornness prompts the arrival of the next plague—swarms of gnats. These tiny insects afflict both Egyptians and their livestock, yet the magicians are unable to replicate this supernatural phenomenon. Still, Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened, and he refuses to let the Israelites go.
The summary above provides an overview of Exodus 8, but to delve deeper into the context and meaning of each verse, click on the following links: