Exodus 9:26: “The only place it did not hail was the land of Goshen, where the Israelites were.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 9:26 reveals a significant detail about the seventh plague of hail that struck Egypt—Goshen, the land where the Israelites lived, was spared. While the rest of Egypt suffered under the devastating storm, God protected His people from harm. This verse emphasizes God’s ability to shield and protect those who are His, even in the midst of widespread judgment. It highlights the special relationship between God and the Israelites, showing that God distinguishes between those who follow Him and those who do not. This distinction serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness to His promises and His care for His people.
Historical Context
The historical context of Exodus 9:26 is within the broader narrative of the ten plagues that God sent upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery. Goshen was a region in Egypt where the Israelites had settled during the time of Joseph, and it was known for its fertile land. By the time of this seventh plague, Egypt had already endured six plagues, each targeting different aspects of Egyptian life. The distinction made between the Egyptians and the Israelites in this verse is significant because it shows that the plagues were not just random acts of nature but were directed and controlled by God for a specific purpose. God’s protection of the Israelites in Goshen serves as a tangible demonstration of His covenant with them and His commitment to their deliverance.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 9:26 highlights God’s sovereignty and His ability to protect His people even in the midst of judgment. This verse underscores the idea that God’s judgments are not indiscriminate; they are purposeful and targeted. The protection of Goshen serves as a reminder that God knows and cares for those who belong to Him. This verse also points to the concept of divine favor—God’s people are set apart and receive His special protection and blessing. The distinction between Egypt and Goshen reflects the broader biblical theme of God separating His people from the world, calling them to be holy and set apart for His purposes.
Literary Analysis
From a literary perspective, Exodus 9:26 functions as a contrast to the preceding verses that describe the widespread destruction caused by the hailstorm. The use of the phrase “The only place” emphasizes the uniqueness of Goshen’s protection, making it clear that this was an extraordinary act of God. The verse is brief and to the point, underscoring the stark difference between the fate of the Egyptians and that of the Israelites. This contrast serves to highlight God’s power and His special relationship with the Israelites, reinforcing the idea that they are His chosen people.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 91:7-8 – “A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.”
- Psalm 37:39-40 – “The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble. The Lord helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.”
- Isaiah 43:2 – “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
- Psalm 34:19 – “The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 9:26 is a reminder of God’s ability to protect and preserve His people, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. It encourages believers to trust in God’s care, knowing that He is able to shield them from harm. The verse also serves as a reminder of the special relationship that Christians have with God through Jesus Christ. Just as God protected the Israelites in Goshen, He promises to be with His people today, offering protection, guidance, and peace. This verse calls Christians to live with confidence in God’s faithfulness, even when facing trials and challenges.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love by showing His protective care for His people. God’s love is not just an abstract concept; it is demonstrated in His actions, such as shielding the Israelites from the devastating hailstorm. God’s love is evident in the way He makes a distinction between His people and those who oppose Him, providing protection and favor to those who belong to Him. This protective love is a consistent theme throughout the Bible, where God’s love is shown in His provision, protection, and guidance for His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 9:26 connects to Jesus Christ in that Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s protection and deliverance. Just as God protected the Israelites in Goshen, Jesus offers protection from the ultimate judgment that comes from sin. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus provides a way for believers to be spared from the wrath of God and to receive eternal life. The distinction made between the Egyptians and the Israelites in this verse can be seen as a foreshadowing of the separation between those who accept Jesus and those who reject Him. In Christ, believers find refuge and safety, just as the Israelites found refuge in Goshen.
Relevant Scriptures:
- John 10:28-29 – “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.”
- Romans 8:38-39 – “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
- 1 Peter 1:5 – “Who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.”
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s protection in your own life?
- In what ways do you see God’s hand of protection over you and your loved ones?
- How can the example of God’s protection of the Israelites in Goshen strengthen your faith during difficult times?
- What does this verse teach you about the special relationship between God and His people?
- How does understanding God’s protection in the Old Testament help you appreciate the protection and salvation offered through Jesus Christ?