Exodus 11:7 & Abraham's covenant link?
How does Exodus 11:7 connect to God's covenant with Abraham in Genesis?

Opening snapshot

“‘But among all the Israelites not even a dog will bark at a man or animal.’ Then you will know that the LORD distinguishes between Egypt and Israel.” (Exodus 11:7)


Tracing the covenant thread back to Genesis

Genesis 12:2-3 – God pledges to Abraham: “I will make you into a great nation… I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse.”

Genesis 15:13-14 – God forewarns the 400-year oppression in a foreign land yet promises, “Afterward they will depart with great possessions.”

Genesis 17:7-8 – “I will establish My covenant… to be your God and the God of your descendants after you.”

Genesis 22:17 – “Your seed will possess the gate of their enemies.”


How Exodus 11:7 fulfills and showcases those promises

1. Distinction and protection

– Covenant assurance: God would “curse” oppressors and safeguard Abraham’s line.

Exodus 11:7 reveals supernatural calm in Israel’s camp while Egypt reels from the final plague. No dog growls—total peace amid judgment—underscoring the covenant shield.

2. Public demonstration of God’s ownership

Genesis 17:7-8 promised, “I will be your God.”

Exodus 11:7: “Then you will know that the LORD distinguishes between Egypt and Israel.” The separation is God’s signature on the covenant, broadcast to both nations.

3. Preparation for plunder and departure

Genesis 15:14 foretold departure “with great possessions.”

Exodus 11 (vv. 2-3) commands Israel to ask for silver and gold; verse 7 sets the stage, guaranteeing untouched flocks and herds. Their animals—and thus their wealth—remain intact for the journey.

4. Vindication of the blessing-curse principle

– Egypt, having cursed and enslaved Israel, now receives curse; Israel, the blessed people, enjoys unthreatened peace. Genesis 12:3 is acted out in real time.


Why the detail about dogs matters

• Cultural nuance: Dogs were feared scavengers in ancient Egypt; continual barking signaled unrest.

• By silencing even the lowest creature, God highlights the totality of His covenant care—nothing and no one may harm the heirs of promise when He moves.


Takeaway connections

Exodus 11:7 is not an isolated miracle but a covenant milestone.

• Every plague accentuated God’s faithfulness, but this particular verse crystallizes the Genesis promises: distinction, protection, blessing, and preparation for deliverance. He is the same LORD who spoke to Abraham and now tangibly guards Abraham’s descendants on the eve of redemption.

What does 'not even a dog will snarl' signify about God's power?
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