Exodus 8:21 - Else, if you will not let my people go, behold, I will send swarms of flies on you, and on your servants, and on your people, and into your houses: and the houses of the Egyptians shall be full of swarms of flies, and also the ground whereon they are.

Generated Verse: Exodus 8:21

What does "Exodus 8:21" mean?


This verse, Exodus 8:21, is part of God's warning to Pharaoh about the plague of flies. Let's break it down:

"Else, if you will not let my people go...": This establishes a direct cause-and-effect relationship. God is giving Pharaoh a choice. If Pharaoh continues to refuse to release the Israelites from slavery, then certain consequences will follow.

"...behold, I will send swarms of flies on you...": This announces the next plague: a massive infestation of flies. "Behold" emphasizes the certainty and severity of what is about to happen. The flies are coming as a direct act of God.

"...and on your servants, and on your people, and into your houses...": This clarifies the scope of the plague. It won't just affect Pharaoh; it will affect everyone in Egypt, from the highest officials ("servants") to the common people. The flies will invade their personal space ("houses").

"...and the houses of the Egyptians shall be full of swarms of flies, and also the ground whereon they are.": This emphasizes the pervasiveness of the plague. The flies won't just be a minor nuisance; they will be everywhere, completely infesting homes and outdoor areas. The phrase "full of swarms" suggests an overwhelming, unbearable number of flies.

In essence, this verse is a clear and direct ultimatum. God is warning Pharaoh that if he doesn't release the Israelites, he and his entire nation will suffer a horrific plague of flies. The flies are not just an annoyance; they represent God's power and judgment against Pharaoh's defiance.

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