Topical Encyclopedia The Plague of Darkness is the ninth of the ten plagues that God inflicted upon Egypt as described in the Book of Exodus. This particular plague is a significant demonstration of God's power and judgment against the Egyptians, specifically targeting their deities and the Pharaoh's hardened heart. The account of the Plague of Darkness is found in Exodus 10:21-29.Biblical Account: In Exodus 10:21-23 , the Lord instructs Moses: "Stretch out your hand toward the sky so that darkness spreads over the land of Egypt—a darkness that can be felt." Moses obeys, and a thick darkness covers Egypt for three days. The text emphasizes the severity of this darkness, stating that "no one could see anyone else or leave his place for three days." However, the Israelites had light in the places where they lived, highlighting the distinction God made between His people and the Egyptians. Theological Significance: The Plague of Darkness serves multiple purposes in the narrative of the Exodus. It is a direct challenge to the Egyptian sun god, Ra, one of the most significant deities in the Egyptian pantheon. By plunging the land into darkness, the God of Israel demonstrates His supremacy over the Egyptian gods, asserting that He alone is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. This plague also serves as a precursor to the final and most devastating plague—the death of the firstborn. The darkness can be seen as a symbol of the spiritual blindness and moral darkness that had enveloped Egypt due to Pharaoh's obstinacy and refusal to acknowledge the sovereignty of the God of Israel. Pharaoh's Response: Pharaoh's reaction to the Plague of Darkness is one of temporary concession followed by continued resistance. In Exodus 10:24-27 , Pharaoh summons Moses and offers to let the Israelites go, but with conditions that they leave their livestock behind. Moses insists that they must take their flocks and herds to offer sacrifices to the Lord. Pharaoh's heart is hardened once more, and he refuses, leading to the final plague. Symbolic Interpretations: From a symbolic perspective, the Plague of Darkness can be interpreted as a representation of the spiritual darkness that results from rejecting God's truth. It serves as a warning of the consequences of hardening one's heart against divine revelation and guidance. The distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites during this plague underscores the theme of divine protection and favor for those who are faithful to God. Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, light and darkness were often associated with order and chaos, respectively. The imposition of darkness over Egypt would have been perceived as a return to primordial chaos, a reversal of the created order. This would have been a powerful message to the Egyptians, who prided themselves on their civilization and the stability provided by their pantheon of gods. The Plague of Darkness, therefore, is not merely a natural phenomenon but a profound theological statement about the power and authority of the God of Israel over all creation. It serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Exodus, setting the stage for the liberation of the Israelites and the establishment of their covenant relationship with God. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 10:21-23And the LORD said to Moses, Stretch out your hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, even darkness which may be felt. Nave's Topical Index Library Joel's Rhapsody of the Locust Plague On his Father'S Silence, Because of the Plague of Hail. The Sixth vision "On Earth" Light after Darkness Light for them that Sit in Darkness; Concerning the Ten Plagues which came Upon the Egyptians. On the Holy Ghost and his Descent Upon the Apostles The Last Farewell in the Presence of the one Hundred and Fifty ... A Prophet's Woes Fourth Sunday after Easter Second Sermon. Resources What is the cause of the recent plague of child molestation incidents? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the meaning and purpose of the ten plagues of Egypt? | GotQuestions.org Is there extra-biblical evidence of the ten plagues in Egypt? | GotQuestions.org Plague: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Plague of Boils and Open Sores Plague: As a Judgment on the Egyptians Plague: Death of the Firstborn Plague: Denounced As a Judgment Plague: On the Israelites for the Sin of Peor Plague: On the Israelites of Serpents Plague: On the Israelites: After Complaining About the Destruction of Korah and his Family Plague: On the Israelites: After Eating the Quail Meat Plague: On the Israelites: After Refusing to Enter the Promised Land Plague: On the Israelites: On Account of David's Sin The Plague or Pestilence was Attributed to a Destroying Angel The Plague or Pestilence: Described As Noisome The Plague or Pestilence: Desolating Effects of The Plague or Pestilence: Egypt often Afflicted With The Plague or Pestilence: Equally Fatal Day and Night The Plague or Pestilence: Fatal to Man and Beast The Plague or Pestilence: God's Judgments Upon the Apostasy The Plague or Pestilence: Inflicted by God The Plague or Pestilence: Israel Threatened With, As a Punishment for Disobedience The Plague or Pestilence: Often Broke out Suddenly The Plague or Pestilence: Often Followed War and Famine The Plague or Pestilence: One of God's Four Sore Judgments The Plague or Pestilence: Predicted to Happen Before Destruction of Jerusalem The Plague or Pestilence: Sent Upon: David's Subjects for his Numbering the People The Plague or Pestilence: Sent Upon: Israel for Despising Manna The Plague or Pestilence: Sent Upon: Israel for Making Golden Calf The Plague or Pestilence: Sent Upon: Israel for Murmuring at Destruction of Korah The Plague or Pestilence: Sent Upon: Israel for Worshipping Baal-Peor The Plague or Pestilence: Sent Upon: The Egyptians The Plague or Pestilence: Specially Fatal in Cities The Plague or Pestilence: The Diseased State of Man's Heart The Plague or Pestilence: The Jews Sought Deliverance From, by Prayer Related Terms |
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