Exodus 7:18

The fish in the Nile will die, the river will stink, and the Egyptians will be unable to drink its water.'"

Study Bible

The fish in the Nile
The Nile River was the lifeblood of ancient Egypt, providing sustenance, transportation, and fertile soil for agriculture. The Hebrew word for "Nile" is "יְאֹר" (ye'or), which refers to a river or stream, but in the context of Egypt, it specifically denotes the Nile. Fish were a crucial part of the Egyptian diet and economy, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. The death of the fish signifies a direct assault on the Egyptian way of life and their reliance on the Nile, highlighting God's power over creation and the futility of Egypt's gods.

will die
The Hebrew word "מוּת" (muth) means to die or perish. This word underscores the severity of the plague, as it brings death to what was once a source of life. The death of the fish serves as a tangible sign of God's judgment against Egypt, demonstrating His sovereignty and the consequences of Pharaoh's hardened heart. It is a reminder that life and death are in the hands of the Lord, and He alone has the power to give and take away.

the river will stink
The Hebrew word "בָּאַשׁ" (ba'ash) means to become foul or emit a stench. The stench of the river symbolizes the corruption and decay that result from sin and disobedience. In a broader spiritual sense, it reflects the moral and spiritual decay of Egypt, a nation that has turned away from the true God. The foul odor serves as a physical manifestation of the spiritual corruption that has permeated the land, calling the Egyptians to recognize the power and holiness of the God of Israel.

and the Egyptians will be unable to drink its water
The inability to drink the water of the Nile represents a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods, particularly Hapi, the god of the Nile, who was believed to control the river's bounty. The Hebrew phrase "וְנִלְאוּ מִמֵּימֵי הַיְאֹר" (venil'u mimei haye'or) conveys a sense of frustration and helplessness. This phrase highlights the futility of relying on false gods and the ultimate dependence of all creation on the one true God. It serves as a call to repentance and recognition of God's supreme authority over all aspects of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. He is the one who, under God's command, initiates the plagues.

2. Aaron
Moses' brother and spokesperson, who assists Moses in confronting Pharaoh and performing the signs and wonders.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against letting the Israelites go, prompting God to send plagues.

4. The Nile River
A vital water source for Egypt, symbolizing life and prosperity. Its pollution signifies a direct challenge to Egyptian deities and their perceived power.

5. The Plague of Blood
The first of the ten plagues, where the Nile and all water sources in Egypt are turned to blood, causing ecological and societal chaos.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nature
The transformation of the Nile into blood demonstrates God's control over creation, challenging the Egyptian gods and their supposed dominion over natural elements.

Judgment and Mercy
The plagues serve as both judgment against Egypt and a call to repentance, illustrating God's justice and mercy.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's command despite the signs reflects the danger of a hardened heart, warning believers to remain receptive to God's voice.

Dependence on God
The Egyptians' reliance on the Nile for sustenance underscores the futility of trusting in worldly resources over divine provision.

Spiritual Cleansing
Just as the Nile's pollution rendered it undrinkable, sin pollutes our lives, necessitating the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the transformation of the Nile into blood challenge the authority of Egyptian deities, and what does this teach us about God's power over false idols in our lives?

2. In what ways does the hardening of Pharaoh's heart serve as a warning for us today, and how can we ensure our hearts remain open to God's guidance?

3. How does the first plague relate to the broader theme of creation and reversal found throughout the Bible, and what implications does this have for understanding God's redemptive plan?

4. What are some modern-day "Niles" that people depend on, and how can we shift our reliance from these to trusting in God's provision?

5. How can the concept of spiritual cleansing, as illustrated by the polluted Nile, be applied to our personal walk with Christ, and what steps can we take to maintain purity in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:20-21
The creation of fish and life in the waters, highlighting the reversal of creation in the plagues.

Revelation 16:3-4
The future judgment where waters turn to blood, showing a parallel in divine judgment.

Psalm 78:44
A recounting of the plagues, emphasizing God's power and judgment over Egypt.

Ezekiel 29:3
A prophecy against Pharaoh, likening him to a monster in the Nile, reinforcing the theme of God's sovereignty over earthly powers.