Old Testament
Exodus 7:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Moses and Aaron did as the LORD commanded. Aaron lifted the rod and struck the waters in the river in front of Pharaoh and his officials, and all the waters in the river turned to blood.
Compare translations
And Moses and Aaron did so, as the LORD commanded; and he lifted up the rod, and smote the waters that were in the river, in the sight of Pharaoh, and in the sight of his servants; and all the waters that were in the river were turned to blood.
What Exodus 7:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Moses and Aaron follow God's instructions precisely. Aaron raises his rod and strikes the river's waters right in front of Pharaoh and his officials. This act is significant because it demonstrates God's power and authority over nature. As a result, all the waters in the river instantly turn to blood. This transformation serves as a clear sign to Pharaoh, showing that God is serious about freeing the Israelites from slavery. The blood symbolizes judgment and the consequences of ignoring God's commands. Pharaoh's reaction to this miracle will reveal his heart and the hardness of his spirit. This event marks the beginning of a series of plagues that will challenge Pharaoh's authority and lead to the liberation of the Israelites. It emphasizes the importance of obedience to God and the seriousness of His messages to humanity. The striking of the water is not just a miracle; it is a call to recognize divine power and respond accordingly. This moment is unforgettable, as it sets the stage for the unfolding drama of liberation.
How to apply Exodus 7:20 to your life
This passage encourages us to listen and act on what we believe is right. Just as Moses and Aaron obeyed God, we too should follow our convictions. When faced with challenges, remember that taking a stand can lead to significant change. Trust in the power of your actions to make a difference in the world around you. Be bold in your faith and actions, just like Moses and Aaron were in theirs.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Nile Turns to Blood (Exodus 7:14–25)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Exodus 7:20
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Exodus 7:20
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 7:20 mean?
Exodus 7:20 describes how Moses and Aaron obeyed God's command to strike the river with a rod, resulting in all the waters turning to blood. This act demonstrates God's power and serves as a warning to Pharaoh about the consequences of disobedience.
What is the significance of the rod in Exodus 7:20?
The rod in Exodus 7:20 symbolizes God's authority and power. When Aaron strikes the water with it, it signifies God's control over nature and His ability to enact judgment.
What does the transformation of water to blood represent in Exodus 7:20?
The transformation of water to blood in Exodus 7:20 represents divine judgment and the seriousness of God's commands. It serves as a clear sign to Pharaoh of the consequences of ignoring God's will.
How does Exodus 7:20 relate to themes of obedience and freedom?
Exodus 7:20 highlights the theme of obedience as Moses and Aaron act on God's command. This act of obedience is crucial in the broader narrative of the Israelites' journey to freedom from slavery in Egypt.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.