Exodus 10:7 - Pharaoh’s servants said to him, “How long will this man be a snare to us? Let the men go, that they may serve Yahweh, their God. Don’t you yet know that Egypt is destroyed?”

Generated Verse: Exodus 10:7

What does "Exodus 10:7" mean?


This verse from Exodus 10:7 encapsulates the growing desperation and frustration of Pharaoh's servants in the face of the escalating plagues brought upon Egypt by God through Moses. Let's break down its meaning:

"Pharaoh's servants said to him, 'How long will this man be a snare to us?'"
This demonstrates that Pharaoh's advisors recognized Moses as a threat. They viewed him as a "snare" or trap because his persistent demands and the subsequent plagues were causing immense harm to Egypt.
The "snare" isn't just about physical harm, but also the disruption of Egyptian society and economy.

"Let the men go, that they may serve Yahweh, their God."
This is the core demand that Moses had been making: to allow the Israelites to leave Egypt temporarily to worship their God, Yahweh.
Pharaoh's servants are now urging him to concede to this demand, recognizing that continued resistance is only making things worse.

"Don't you yet know that Egypt is destroyed?"
This is the most powerful part of the verse. It highlights the devastation the plagues had already wrought upon Egypt. Crops were ruined, livestock had died, the people were suffering, and the country was in a state of economic collapse.
The servants are essentially asking Pharaoh if he's blind to the obvious. They believe that further resistance to God's will would lead to even greater destruction. They understood that the cost of keeping the Israelites enslaved was now far greater than the value of their labor.

In essence, this verse shows:

Recognition of the Severity: Pharaoh's advisors understand the severity of the situation and the damage being done to Egypt.
Fear of Continued Destruction: They fear that further resistance will only lead to more destruction.
Shift in Loyalty (Implied): While still servants of Pharaoh, their primary concern is now the survival of Egypt, and they are willing to go against Pharaoh's wishes to achieve that.
The Power of God: The verse subtly underscores the power of God, as even Pharaoh's inner circle recognizes the futility of opposing Him.
Lack of Faith by Pharaoh: By asking if he doesn't understand the destruction of Egypt, they are highlighting his stubborn refusal to acknowledge the power of Yahweh.

The verse acts as a turning point in the narrative, highlighting the growing pressure on Pharaoh and foreshadowing the eventual release of the Israelites. It's a testament to the escalating consequences of Pharaoh's stubbornness and his refusal to acknowledge the power of God.