Old Testament
Exodus 10:13
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, Moses, acting on God's command, raises his staff over Egypt.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Moses stretched out his staff over the land of Egypt, and the LORD sent an east wind blowing across the land all that day and all through the night. By morning, the east wind had carried in the locusts.
And Moses stretched forth his rod over the land of Egypt, and the LORD brought an east wind upon the land all that day, and all that night; and when it was morning, the east wind brought the locusts.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Moses, acting on God's command, raises his staff over Egypt. This gesture symbolizes authority and obedience. The LORD responds by sending a powerful east wind that blows continuously, both day and night. By morning, this wind has brought a swarm of locusts into the land. These locusts are not just insects; they represent a devastating force that will consume crops and threaten the livelihood of the Egyptians. This event highlights the seriousness of Pharaoh's refusal to let the Israelites go. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of ignoring divine warnings. The east wind, a natural phenomenon, becomes a tool for God's purpose, showing how nature can be used to fulfill His plans. This story illustrates the importance of listening to guidance and the impact of our choices on ourselves and others. It’s a powerful reminder that actions have consequences, and sometimes, those consequences can be overwhelming and life-altering for entire communities.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Exodus 10:13 to your life
Reflect on the choices you make and their potential impact on those around you. Just as Moses acted on God's command, consider how you can respond to guidance in your life. Remember that your actions can lead to significant outcomes, both positive and negative. Stay aware of the consequences of your decisions and strive to make wise choices that benefit everyone involved. Embrace the lessons from this story to guide your path.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 10:13 mean?
Exodus 10:13 describes Moses raising his staff over Egypt, prompting the LORD to send an east wind that brings locusts. This act symbolizes Moses' obedience to God and illustrates the consequences of Pharaoh's refusal to free the Israelites.
What is the significance of the east wind in Exodus 10:13?
The east wind in Exodus 10:13 serves as a tool for God's purpose, bringing locusts that devastate the land. It highlights how natural elements can be used to fulfill divine plans and emphasizes the seriousness of ignoring God's warnings.
What are the consequences mentioned in Exodus 10:13?
The consequences in Exodus 10:13 refer to the locusts that invade Egypt, consuming crops and threatening the livelihood of the people. This event serves as a direct result of Pharaoh's refusal to let the Israelites go.
How does Exodus 10:13 relate to obedience?
Exodus 10:13 illustrates obedience through Moses' actions as he follows God's command to raise his staff. This act leads to significant consequences, reinforcing the importance of listening to divine guidance.

The Book of Exodus
Exodus 1: Israel's Oppression in Egypt
The sons of Israel settle in Egypt, and their families grow rapidly until the land is filled with them. A new Pharaoh arises who does not know Joseph and fears that the Israelites will join Egypt's enemies if war comes, so he places them under harsh labor and forces them to build the store cities Pithom and Raamses. The more they are oppressed, the more they multiply, which increases Egyptian fear. Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every male child at birth, but they fear God and let the boys live. When Pharaoh confronts them, they say the Hebrew women deliver before the midwives arrive, and God blesses the midwives with households. Pharaoh then commands all his people to cast every Hebrew son into the river while allowing the daughters to live.
Unlock the full Exodus summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Exodus — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 40 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Exodus summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.