Exodus 9:32

but the wheat and spelt were not destroyed, because they are late crops.)

Study Bible

but the wheat and spelt were not destroyed
In the context of the plagues in Egypt, this phrase highlights the selective nature of the seventh plague, which was hail. The wheat and spelt were not destroyed because they had not yet matured. This detail underscores God's control over the natural world and His ability to protect certain elements even amidst judgment. Wheat and spelt were staple grains in ancient Egypt, essential for daily sustenance and economic stability. The preservation of these crops indicates a measure of mercy, allowing for future provision despite the devastation.

because they are late crops
Wheat and spelt are described as late crops, meaning they mature later in the growing season compared to barley and flax, which were destroyed by the hail. This agricultural detail provides insight into the timing of the plagues, likely occurring around February or March. The survival of these crops serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the precision of His judgments. It also foreshadows the continued opportunity for Pharaoh to repent, as the preservation of these crops suggests that God’s judgments are not yet final. This concept of divine timing and mercy is echoed in other scriptures, such as 2 Peter 3:9, which speaks of God's patience and desire for repentance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who is delivering God's messages to Pharaoh.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against letting the Israelites go.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved and where the plagues are taking place.

4. The Plagues
A series of divine judgments sent by God to persuade Pharaoh to release the Israelites.

5. Wheat and Spelt
Types of grain mentioned in this verse, representing the agricultural aspect of the plagues.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The preservation of the wheat and spelt demonstrates God's control over nature and His ability to execute precise judgment.

Timing and Patience
The mention of "late crops" highlights the importance of God's timing. Believers are reminded to trust in God's perfect timing in their lives.

Provision Amidst Judgment
Even in judgment, God provides. The survival of the wheat and spelt suggests that God’s mercy is present even in times of trial.

Spiritual Resilience
Just as the late crops survived the hail, believers are called to be resilient in their faith amidst trials and tribulations.

Symbolism of Harvest
The harvest imagery can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual growth and the eventual gathering of believers into God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the survival of the wheat and spelt in Exodus 9:32 reflect God's sovereignty and mercy?

2. In what ways can we see God's perfect timing in our own lives, similar to the timing of the late crops?

3. How can the resilience of the wheat and spelt inspire us to remain steadfast in our faith during difficult times?

4. What other biblical events or parables use agricultural imagery to convey spiritual truths, and how do they relate to this passage?

5. How can we apply the lesson of God's provision amidst judgment to our current life situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, which also involved the significance of grain and harvests in Egypt.

Joel 1
The prophet Joel speaks of a locust plague that devastates crops, drawing a parallel to the plagues in Egypt.

Matthew 13
Jesus' parable of the wheat and the tares, which uses agricultural imagery to convey spiritual truths.