King James Version

What Does Exodus 9:32 Mean?

Exodus 9:32 in the King James Version says “But the wheat and the rie were not smitten: for they were not grown up. not grown: Heb. hidden or, dark — study this verse from Exodus chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

But the wheat and the rie were not smitten: for they were not grown up. not grown: Heb. hidden or, dark

Exodus 9:32 · KJV


Context

30

But as for thee and thy servants, I know that ye will not yet fear the LORD God.

31

And the flax and the barley was smitten: for the barley was in the ear, and the flax was bolled.

32

But the wheat and the rie were not smitten: for they were not grown up. not grown: Heb. hidden or, dark

33

And Moses went out of the city from Pharaoh, and spread abroad his hands unto the LORD: and the thunders and hail ceased, and the rain was not poured upon the earth.

34

And when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunders were ceased, he sinned yet more, and hardened his heart, he and his servants.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Verse 32 describes the plague of hail with fire, targeting Nut (sky goddess) and Seth (storm god). This unprecedented storm combines hail and fire, destroying crops and livestock left in fields. God reveals 'there is none like me in all the earth' (v.14).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Nut, sky goddess, arched over earth as protective dome. Seth controlled storms and chaos. The storm's supernatural nature—fire and ice together—proves divine origin. Only those who 'feared the word of the LORD' (v.20) saved their livestock.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God use creation to reveal His power?
  2. What does the response of God-fearing Egyptians (v.20) teach about individual faith?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וְהַחִטָּ֥ה1 of 7

But the wheat

H2406

wheat, whether the grain or the plant

וְהַכֻּסֶּ֖מֶת2 of 7

and the rie

H3698

spelt (from its bristliness as if just shorn)

לֹ֣א3 of 7
H3808

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

נֻכּ֑וּ4 of 7

were not smitten

H5221

to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

כִּ֥י5 of 7
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

אֲפִילֹ֖ת6 of 7

were not grown up

H648

unripe

הֵֽנָּה׃7 of 7

for they

H2007

themselves (often used emphatic for the copula, also in indirect relation)


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 9:32 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 9:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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