Exodus 7:19

And the LORD said to Moses, "Tell Aaron, 'Take your staff and stretch out your hand over the waters of Egypt--over their rivers and canals and ponds and reservoirs--that they may become blood.' There will be blood throughout the land of Egypt, even in the vessels of wood and stone."

Study Bible

And the LORD said to Moses
This phrase emphasizes the direct communication between God and Moses, highlighting Moses' role as a prophet and leader. It reflects the divine authority behind the actions that are about to unfold. This communication is consistent with the pattern of God speaking to His chosen leaders throughout the Old Testament, such as with Abraham and later with the prophets.

Tell Aaron
Aaron, Moses' brother, serves as his spokesperson. This arrangement was established earlier due to Moses' reluctance and claimed lack of eloquence. Aaron's role is significant as it demonstrates the importance of teamwork and delegation in leadership. It also foreshadows the establishment of the Levitical priesthood, with Aaron as the first high priest.

‘Take your staff and stretch out your hand over the waters of Egypt
The staff is a symbol of authority and divine power. It was previously used in Exodus 4:2-4 when God turned it into a serpent. Stretching out the hand signifies an act of command and control, often seen in biblical miracles. This act prefigures the miracles of Jesus, who also performed signs over nature, such as calming the storm.

—over their rivers and canals and ponds and all the reservoirs—
This comprehensive list indicates the totality of the plague's impact, affecting all water sources in Egypt. The Nile River, central to Egyptian life and economy, was considered sacred and a source of life. This plague directly challenges the Egyptian gods associated with the Nile, such as Hapi, the god of the annual flooding of the Nile.

that they may become blood.’
The transformation of water into blood is a miraculous act that signifies judgment and the power of God over creation. Blood, often associated with life, here becomes a symbol of death and divine retribution. This act prefigures the first miracle of Jesus at Cana, where He turned water into wine, symbolizing the new covenant in His blood.

There will be blood throughout the land of Egypt
The pervasive nature of this plague underscores the severity of God's judgment against Egypt. It serves as a sign to both the Egyptians and the Israelites of God's supreme power. This widespread impact is a precursor to the final plague, the death of the firstborn, which ultimately leads to the Exodus.

even in the vessels of wood and stone.
This detail highlights the thoroughness of the plague, affecting not only natural water sources but also stored water. It signifies that no part of Egyptian life is untouched by God's judgment. The mention of wood and stone vessels may also symbolize the futility of relying on man-made objects or idols for salvation, contrasting with the living God who controls all creation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is demonstrating His power over the gods of Egypt.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt.

3. Aaron
Moses' brother and spokesperson, who acts on Moses' behalf by performing the miracles.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites are enslaved, ruled by Pharaoh, and the setting for the plagues.

5. The Plague of Blood
The first of the ten plagues, where the waters of Egypt are turned to blood as a sign of God's power and judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Creation
God demonstrates His absolute control over nature, reminding us that He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things.

Judgment and Mercy
The plagues serve as both a judgment against Egypt and a means of deliverance for Israel, illustrating God's justice and mercy.

Obedience to God's Commands
Moses and Aaron's obedience in performing God's commands is a model for us to follow God's instructions, even when they seem daunting.

The Power of God’s Word
The transformation of water to blood shows the power of God's word, encouraging us to trust in His promises and commands.

The Hardness of Heart
Pharaoh's resistance to God's signs warns us of the dangers of hardening our hearts against God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the transformation of water to blood in Exodus 7:19 demonstrate God's sovereignty over creation?

2. In what ways does the first plague serve as both a judgment and a means of deliverance? How can this dual purpose be seen in other parts of Scripture?

3. What can we learn from Moses and Aaron's obedience in this passage about following God's commands in our own lives?

4. How does the account of the first plague in Egypt connect to the future judgments described in Revelation? What does this tell us about God's consistent character?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "hardening of heart" in your own life. How can you apply the lessons from Pharaoh's response to God's signs to avoid similar pitfalls?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:1-2
The creation of water as part of God's original creation, showing His sovereignty over all elements.

Revelation 16:3-4
The future judgment where waters turn to blood, echoing the plagues of Egypt as a sign of God's ultimate authority and justice.

Psalm 78:44
A recounting of the plagues, emphasizing God's mighty acts in delivering His people.

John 2:1-11
Jesus turning water into wine, contrasting the judgment of Egypt with the blessing and new covenant in Christ.