Exodus 10:21 – “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Stretch out your hand toward the sky so that darkness spreads over Egypt—darkness that can be felt.'”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 10:21 marks the beginning of the ninth plague that God brought upon Egypt—a plague of darkness. God instructs Moses to stretch out his hand toward the sky, and in response, a thick darkness spreads across the land of Egypt. This wasn’t just ordinary darkness; it was a darkness so intense that it could be felt, a darkness that enveloped everything and everyone in Egypt except for the Israelites.
This verse emphasizes the severity and supernatural nature of this darkness. It wasn’t simply the absence of light; it was a tangible, overwhelming darkness that paralyzed life in Egypt. The fact that this darkness could be “felt” suggests it was more than a physical phenomenon—it had a spiritual and emotional weight to it, symbolizing the judgment and separation from God’s presence that Egypt was experiencing.
Historical Context
The historical context of this verse is situated within the escalating series of plagues that God sent upon Egypt. By this point, Egypt had already suffered through eight plagues, each one demonstrating God’s power over the elements and the Egyptian gods. The plague of darkness was the ninth plague, coming just before the final and most devastating plague—the death of the firstborn.
In the ancient world, darkness was often associated with chaos, evil, and divine judgment. For the Egyptians, who worshiped the sun god Ra, this plague would have been particularly terrifying. Ra was one of the most important deities in the Egyptian pantheon, symbolizing life and power. The sudden and intense darkness that covered the land was a direct challenge to Ra and all the gods of Egypt, showing that the God of Israel was supreme over all.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 10:21 highlights God’s sovereignty over creation and His ability to bring judgment upon those who oppose Him. The plague of darkness serves as a powerful symbol of the spiritual state of Egypt—a nation that had repeatedly hardened its heart against God. This darkness represents the separation from God’s light and presence that comes as a result of persistent sin and rebellion.
This verse also underscores the reality of God’s judgment. The darkness that could be felt is a tangible representation of the weight of sin and the consequences of resisting God’s will. It serves as a warning about the seriousness of sin and the inevitability of God’s justice.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 10:21 is crafted with vivid imagery that emphasizes the intensity of the plague. The phrase “darkness that can be felt” conveys a sense of dread and foreboding, making it clear that this was no ordinary darkness. The command for Moses to stretch out his hand is a recurring motif in the plagues narrative, symbolizing Moses’ role as God’s chosen instrument to bring about these acts of judgment.
The verse also sets the stage for the dramatic final plague, building tension and anticipation as the narrative moves toward its climax. The use of darkness as a plague is significant because it contrasts with the light of God’s presence, which was still with the Israelites even in the midst of Egypt’s suffering.
Biblical Cross-References
- Amos 5:18 – “Woe to you who long for the day of the Lord! Why do you long for the day of the Lord? That day will be darkness, not light.” This verse in Amos reflects the association of darkness with judgment and the day of the Lord.
- Isaiah 60:2 – “See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you.” This verse contrasts the darkness of judgment with the light of God’s salvation.
- John 1:5 – “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” This New Testament verse highlights the victory of Christ, the Light of the World, over the darkness of sin and evil.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 10:21 serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of God’s judgment. It challenges believers to consider the areas of their lives where they might be resisting God’s will and to turn back to Him before darkness overwhelms them. This verse also encourages Christians to reflect on the spiritual significance of light and darkness, recognizing that true light comes only from God.
The verse also calls Christians to trust in God’s sovereignty, even in the midst of darkness. Just as God controlled the darkness that fell over Egypt, He remains in control of all circumstances, including the darkest moments of our lives. Believers are reminded that God’s light is always available to those who seek Him, even when the world around them seems engulfed in darkness.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 10:21, while depicting a scene of judgment, also reflects God’s love in the broader context of His plan for redemption. The darkness that fell over Egypt was a result of their persistent rebellion, yet it also served as a final warning before the ultimate judgment. God’s willingness to give Egypt one more chance to repent before the final plague demonstrates His patience and desire for people to turn back to Him.
God’s love is also seen in the protection of His people during this time of darkness. While Egypt was enveloped in thick darkness, the Israelites had light where they lived, symbolizing God’s presence and care for His people even in the midst of judgment.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 10:21 connects to Jesus Christ in several ways. Jesus is often referred to as the Light of the World, and His coming brought light into the darkness of a sinful world (John 8:12). The darkness that could be felt in Egypt can be seen as a foreshadowing of the spiritual darkness that Christ came to dispel through His life, death, and resurrection.
Furthermore, at the crucifixion, there was a period of darkness that covered the land (Matthew 27:45). This darkness was a physical manifestation of the spiritual weight of sin that Christ was bearing on the cross. Yet, just as the darkness in Egypt was temporary and served God’s purposes, the darkness at the crucifixion was followed by the light of the resurrection, demonstrating Christ’s victory over sin and death.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge you to examine areas of your life where you might be resisting God’s will?
- What can you learn from the contrast between the darkness in Egypt and the light that remained with the Israelites?
- How does the image of “darkness that can be felt” deepen your understanding of the seriousness of sin and its consequences?
- In what ways does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s sovereignty, even in the darkest moments of your life?
- How does Jesus’ role as the Light of the World inspire you to live in the light and avoid the darkness of sin?
Exodus 10:21 is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and the seriousness of sin. It challenges us to live in the light of God’s presence, trusting in His power to overcome any darkness in our lives, and it points us to Jesus Christ, who brings true light and life to all who follow Him.