King James Version

What Does Exodus 10:27 Mean?

Exodus 10:27 in the King James Version says “But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he would not let them go.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he would not let them go.”

Exodus 10:27 · KJV

Context

25

And Moses said, Thou must give us also sacrifices and burnt offerings, that we may sacrifice unto the LORD our God. us: Heb. into our hands

26

Our cattle also shall go with us; there shall not an hoof be left behind; for thereof must we take to serve the LORD our God; and we know not with what we must serve the LORD, until we come thither.

27

But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he would not let them go.

28

And Pharaoh said unto him, Get thee from me, take heed to thyself, see my face no more; for in that day thou seest my face thou shalt die.

29

And Moses said, Thou hast spoken well, I will see thy face again no more.

Read Exodus 10 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Verse 27 introduces the plague of darkness, directly targeting Ra, Egypt's supreme sun god. Darkness covered Egypt for three days—'darkness which may be felt' (v.21)—while Israel had light in Goshen. This penultimate plague strikes at Egypt's chief deity.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ra, the sun god, was Pharaoh's divine father and Egypt's supreme deity. His daily journey across sky sustained cosmic order (ma'at). Three days of darkness demonstrated Ra's impotence and YHWH's absolute supremacy over Egypt's highest god.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this plague reveal the ultimate showdown between YHWH and Egypt's gods?
  2. What does the light in Goshen symbolize about God's people?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַיְחַזֵּ֥ק1 of 8

“hardened”

H2388

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

יְהוָ֖ה2 of 8

“But the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֶת3 of 8
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

לֵ֣ב4 of 8

“heart”

H3820

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

פַּרְעֹ֑ה5 of 8

“Pharaoh's”

H6547

paroh, a general title of egyptian kings

וְלֹ֥א6 of 8
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

אָבָ֖ה7 of 8

“and he would”

H14

to breathe after, i.e., (figuratively) to be acquiescent

לְשַׁלְּחָֽם׃8 of 8

“not let them go”

H7971

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 10:27 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 10:27 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 10:20Exodus 4:21Exodus 14:8Exodus 14:4Revelation 16:10-11Revelation 9:20

Test Your Knowledge

Exodus 10 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterExodus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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