Exodus 9:25

Throughout the land of Egypt, the hail struck down everything in the field, both man and beast; it beat down every plant of the field and stripped every tree.

Study Bible

Throughout the land of Egypt
This phrase emphasizes the widespread nature of the plague, affecting the entire nation. Egypt, known for its advanced civilization and powerful empire, was geographically centered around the Nile River. The land's fertility depended heavily on the Nile's inundation, making the impact of the hail particularly devastating. This event demonstrates God's power over the natural world and His ability to execute judgment on a national scale.

the hail struck down everything in the field
Hail is a rare and destructive weather phenomenon in Egypt, a region characterized by its arid climate. The severity of this plague is underscored by its ability to destroy everything in the fields, which were crucial for Egypt's agriculture-based economy. This judgment highlights God's control over creation and serves as a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods, such as Nut, the sky goddess, and Set, the god of storms.

both man and beast
The inclusion of both humans and animals in the destruction signifies the comprehensive nature of the judgment. In ancient Egyptian society, animals were not only vital for agriculture and transportation but also held religious significance. The loss of life among both humans and animals underscores the severity of the plague and serves as a reminder of the consequences of Pharaoh's hardened heart.

it beat down every plant of the field
The destruction of crops would have had catastrophic implications for Egypt's food supply, leading to potential famine. This phrase highlights the economic and social impact of the plague, as agriculture was the backbone of Egyptian society. The devastation of the crops can be seen as a fulfillment of God's warning to Pharaoh and a demonstration of His sovereignty over the land.

and stripped every tree
Trees, often symbols of life and prosperity, were also destroyed, indicating the totality of the devastation. In the biblical narrative, trees can represent stability and blessing, and their destruction signifies the removal of these blessings from Egypt. This act of stripping the trees can be seen as a precursor to the later plagues and a foreshadowing of the ultimate deliverance of the Israelites, as it demonstrates God's power to dismantle the natural order to fulfill His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved and where God demonstrated His power through the plagues.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who hardened his heart against God’s command to let the Israelites go.

3. Moses
The prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from slavery.

4. The Plague of Hail
The seventh plague sent by God upon Egypt, demonstrating His power and judgment.

5. The Israelites
God’s chosen people, who were spared from the devastation of the plagues.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
The plague of hail demonstrates God's control over nature and His ability to execute judgment.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's refusal to heed God's warnings serves as a caution against hardening our hearts to God's voice.

Protection of God's People
The Israelites were spared from the plague, illustrating God's protection and care for His people.

Repentance and Obedience
The plagues serve as a call to repentance and obedience to God's commands.

Judgment and Mercy
While God’s judgment is severe, His mercy is evident in sparing those who belong to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the plague of hail in Exodus 9:25 demonstrate God's sovereignty over creation?

2. In what ways can we see the hardness of Pharaoh's heart reflected in our own lives, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does the protection of the Israelites during the plagues encourage us in our faith today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the plagues about the importance of repentance and obedience to God?

5. How do the plagues in Exodus connect to the themes of judgment and mercy found throughout the Bible, particularly in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah by fire and brimstone parallels the destructive power of the hail, showing God's judgment.

Psalm 78
This psalm recounts the plagues of Egypt, including the hail, as a reminder of God's mighty works and judgment.

Revelation 16
The plagues in Revelation echo the plagues of Egypt, symbolizing God's ultimate judgment on sin.