Old Testament
Exodus 9:35
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Pharaoh's heart was hard, and he refused to let the Israelites go — exactly as the LORD had said through Moses.
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And the heart of Pharaoh was hardened, neither would he let the children of Israel go; as the LORD had spoken by Moses.
What Exodus 9:35 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Pharaoh's stubbornness. Despite the many signs and warnings from God through Moses, he refuses to let the Israelites go free. This hardening of his heart is significant because it shows how pride and power can blind someone to the truth. Pharaoh's actions are a reminder that sometimes we can become so entrenched in our ways that we ignore the consequences of our decisions. God had already predicted this would happen, highlighting His control over the situation. The refusal to listen leads to further suffering, not just for Pharaoh but for his entire nation. This moment illustrates the struggle between divine will and human resistance, emphasizing the importance of being open to change and guidance. It challenges us to reflect on our own hearts and whether we are open to the lessons life presents us. Are we willing to let go of our pride and listen to wisdom, or do we harden our hearts like Pharaoh did? This story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of humility and responsiveness to truth.
How to apply Exodus 9:35 to your life
Reflect on areas in your life where you might be resisting change or ignoring wise counsel. Consider how pride can cloud your judgment and lead to negative outcomes. Embrace humility and openness to learn from others, allowing growth and positive transformation in your life. Seek to soften your heart towards wisdom and truth, just as Pharaoh failed to do. This can lead to a more fulfilling life experience and better relationships.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Plague of Hail (Exodus 9:13–35)
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Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Exodus 9:35
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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 9:35 mean?
Exodus 9:35 illustrates Pharaoh's stubbornness and refusal to free the Israelites despite God's warnings through Moses. It highlights how pride can lead to ignoring consequences and emphasizes the struggle between divine will and human resistance.
What is the significance of Pharaoh's hardened heart in Exodus 9:35?
Pharaoh's hardened heart signifies his refusal to listen to God's commands, showcasing how power and pride can blind individuals to the truth. This hardening serves as a warning about the dangers of being entrenched in one's ways.
How does Exodus 9:35 relate to the theme of humility?
Exodus 9:35 serves as a reminder of the importance of humility, as Pharaoh's pride leads to his downfall. It challenges readers to reflect on their own openness to change and willingness to listen to wisdom.
What lessons can we learn from Exodus 9:35?
From Exodus 9:35, we learn the dangers of stubbornness and the importance of being receptive to guidance. It encourages us to examine our own hearts and consider how pride may hinder our growth and relationships.
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