Exodus 9:18

Behold, at this time tomorrow I will rain down the worst hail that has ever fallen on Egypt, from the day it was founded until now.

Study Bible

Behold
The word "behold" is a call to attention, urging the listener or reader to focus on what is about to be said. In the Hebrew text, this is often translated from the word "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which serves as an imperative to pay close attention. It is a divine alert, emphasizing the importance and immediacy of the message that follows. In the context of Exodus, it underscores the gravity of God's impending action against Egypt.

at this time tomorrow
This phrase indicates a specific, divinely appointed time for the event to occur. The precision of "at this time tomorrow" reflects God's sovereign control over time and events. It also serves as a warning to Pharaoh and the Egyptians, giving them a final opportunity to heed God's command. The specificity of the timing highlights the certainty and inevitability of God's judgment.

I will send
Here, God is the active agent, emphasizing His direct involvement in the unfolding events. The Hebrew verb "שָׁלַח" (shalach) is used, which means to send forth or dispatch. This action underscores God's authority and power to execute His will. It is a reminder that the plagues are not random natural disasters but deliberate acts of divine judgment.

the worst hailstorm
The phrase "the worst hailstorm" signifies an unprecedented natural disaster. In the ancient Near East, hail was a rare and devastating phenomenon, often associated with divine wrath. The Hebrew word for hail, "בָּרָד" (barad), conveys the idea of a destructive force. This plague is a demonstration of God's supremacy over the natural world and a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods, who were believed to control the weather.

that has ever fallen
This expression emphasizes the unparalleled nature of the impending disaster. It serves to highlight the severity of the judgment and the uniqueness of the event in the history of Egypt. The phrase underscores the extraordinary nature of God's intervention and serves as a testament to His power and authority.

on Egypt
The mention of "Egypt" specifies the target of God's judgment. Egypt, at the time, was a powerful and influential civilization, often seen as a symbol of human pride and idolatry. By directing the plague specifically at Egypt, God is demonstrating His power over even the mightiest of nations and their deities. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of defying the one true God.

from the day it was founded until now
This phrase provides a historical context, indicating that the forthcoming hailstorm will be unprecedented in Egypt's long history. It serves to remind the Egyptians of their past and the continuity of God's sovereignty throughout time. The reference to the founding of Egypt underscores the enduring nature of God's authority and the futility of resisting His will. It is a call to recognize God's hand in history and to submit to His divine plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to confront Pharaoh and lead His people out of Egypt.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart was hardened against letting the Israelites go, despite witnessing God's power through the plagues.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved, and the setting for the plagues that God sent as judgments against Pharaoh and the Egyptian gods.

4. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments sent by God to demonstrate His power and compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. The hailstorm is the seventh plague.

5. The Hailstorm
A supernatural event, described as the worst hailstorm in Egypt's history, demonstrating God's control over nature and His judgment against Egypt.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nature
The hailstorm demonstrates God's control over the natural world, reminding us that He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things.

Judgment and Mercy
While the plagues were acts of judgment, they also served as opportunities for repentance. God's warnings are acts of mercy, giving time to turn back to Him.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's warnings illustrates the danger of a hardened heart. We must remain open to God's voice and responsive to His guidance.

The Power of Obedience
Moses' obedience in delivering God's message to Pharaoh shows the importance of faithfulness in our calling, even in the face of opposition.

God's Faithfulness to His People
Despite the trials, God was faithful to His promise to deliver the Israelites, reminding us of His unwavering commitment to His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the hailstorm as a divine judgment in Exodus 9:18 reflect God's sovereignty and power over creation?

2. In what ways can we see the mercy of God in the midst of His judgments, both in the account of the plagues and in our own lives?

3. What are some modern-day examples of "hardening one's heart" against God, and how can we guard against this in our spiritual walk?

4. How does the account of the plagues in Egypt connect to the themes of judgment and redemption found throughout the Bible, particularly in the New Testament?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt called to deliver a difficult message or take a stand for your faith. How can Moses' example encourage you in similar situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah with fire and brimstone parallels the hailstorm in Egypt, both serving as divine judgments.

Revelation 16
The plagues in Revelation, including hail, echo the plagues of Egypt, symbolizing God's ultimate judgment and sovereignty.

Psalm 78
This psalm recounts the plagues of Egypt, emphasizing God's power and the consequences of hardening one's heart against Him.