King James Version
What Does Exodus 9:32 Mean?
“But the wheat and the rie were not smitten: for they were not grown up. not grown: Heb. hidden or, dark”
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
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(32) **The wheat and the rie.**—“Rie,” or rye, is a wrong translation. It is a grain which has never been grown in Egypt. The only three kinds of grain cultivated were wheat, barley, and the *holcus sorghum,* or *doora.* There is no doubt that this last is intended by the Hebrew *cussemeth,* which is a word derived from the Egyptian. The wheat is a full month later than the barley in Egypt, and does not come into ear till March. The *holcus sorghum* may be grown at any time, except during the inundation. If sown with the wheat, it would ripen about the same period.
**They were not grown up.**—Heb., *they were late,* or *dark.* The ear was undeveloped, and lay hid in the low tufts that grew like grass.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge