Old Testament
Exodus 9:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But the LORD will make a distinction between Israel's livestock and Egypt's livestock. Not a single animal belonging to the Israelites will die.'"
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And the LORD shall sever between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt: and there shall nothing die of all that is the children’s of Israel.
What Exodus 9:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God promises to protect the livestock of the Israelites during a devastating plague that affects Egypt. While the Egyptians will suffer losses, the animals belonging to the Israelites will remain unharmed. This distinction highlights God's care for His people and His ability to provide for them even in difficult times. It serves as a reminder that, despite the chaos around us, we can find safety and security in our relationship with God. The assurance that not a single animal will die emphasizes God's power and faithfulness. This moment illustrates the broader theme of God's protection and deliverance, showing that He is actively involved in the lives of those who trust Him. The Israelites can rest assured that they are under His watchful eye, reinforcing their identity as His chosen people. This promise of protection is a source of hope and encouragement, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles and that God is always there for us, providing for our needs.
How to apply Exodus 9:4 to your life
In our lives, we can take comfort in knowing that God cares for us and protects us in challenging situations. Just as He distinguished between the Israelites and Egyptians, He sees us and knows our struggles. Trusting in His provision can help us face our fears with confidence and peace, knowing we are not alone in our journey. We can lean on Him for support and guidance every day, no matter the circumstances we face.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Livestock Die (Exodus 9:1–7)
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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 9:4
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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 9:4 mean?
Exodus 9:4 means that God will protect the livestock of the Israelites during a plague that will kill the livestock of the Egyptians. This shows God's care for His people and His ability to keep them safe even in difficult times.
What is the significance of the distinction in Exodus 9:4?
The distinction in Exodus 9:4 highlights God's protective nature and His commitment to the Israelites. It serves as a reminder that God is actively involved in the lives of those who trust Him, ensuring their safety amid chaos.
How does Exodus 9:4 relate to God's protection?
Exodus 9:4 illustrates God's protection by showing that He will safeguard the Israelites' livestock while the Egyptians suffer losses. This reinforces the idea that God watches over His chosen people.
What does the phrase 'not a single animal will die' mean in Exodus 9:4?
The phrase 'not a single animal will die' in Exodus 9:4 means that God guarantees the safety of the Israelites' livestock during the plague. It emphasizes God's power and faithfulness to protect His people.
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