Exodus 9:3

Arabic SVD 1865 Version (Smith and Van Dyke)

فها يد الرب تكون على مواشيك التي في الحقل على الخيل والحمير والجمال والبقر والغنم وبأ ثقيلا جدا.

What Does This Mean?

In Exodus 9:3, God warns Pharaoh that he will strike the cattle in the field with a severe disease. This is part of God's plan to free the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The verse emphasizes God's power and his intention to show Pharaoh that he means business.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your favorite toy suddenly got sick because a grown-up said so. That's kind of what's happening here, but with animals. God is showing Pharaoh that he can control everything, even the animals, to make sure the Israelites can leave Egypt.

Historical Background

The book of Exodus was written by Moses around 1446 B.C. The audience was the Israelites who were enslaved in Egypt. This verse is part of a series of plagues that God sends to convince Pharaoh to release the Israelites. In that time, cattle were crucial for farming and transportation, making this plague particularly devastating.

Living It Out Today

In today's context, imagine a farmer whose entire herd of cattle is struck by a deadly disease. This would be a huge financial and emotional blow. This verse reminds us that sometimes, difficult things happen to make us realize the importance of listening to God and following his guidance.

Topics

• judgment
• God's power
• plagues
• deliverance
• Egypt
• animals

Related Verses

• Exodus 7:14
• Exodus 10:1
• Deuteronomy 28:21
• 1 Samuel 5:9
• Revelation 16:10

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning of 'murrain' in Exodus 9:3?

Murrain refers to a widespread infectious disease that affects cattle, causing severe illness and often death. It was used here to describe the disease that God sent as a plague.

Why did God choose to strike the cattle specifically?

The cattle were crucial for the Egyptian economy and daily life, so targeting them would have a significant impact on the Egyptians and would show Pharaoh God's power and seriousness.

How does this verse relate to the broader narrative of the Exodus?

This verse is part of a series of plagues sent to Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. It shows God's determination to free his people and demonstrates his control over nature.

What can we learn from the severe judgment described in this verse?

We can learn that God takes our obedience seriously and that he will act to protect and guide his people. It also teaches us to listen to God and follow his instructions.