Topical Encyclopedia The Plague on Cattle, also known as the fifth plague of Egypt, is a significant event recorded in the Book of Exodus, which details the series of divine judgments that God brought upon Egypt to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from bondage. This particular plague is described in Exodus 9:1-7.Biblical Account: In Exodus 9:1-7 , the narrative unfolds with the LORD instructing Moses to confront Pharaoh with a message: "Go to Pharaoh and tell him that this is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: 'Let My people go, so that they may worship Me. But if you refuse to let them go and continue to hold them, then the hand of the LORD will bring a severe plague on your livestock in the field—on your horses, donkeys, camels, herds, and flocks.'" The passage emphasizes the distinction God makes between the livestock of the Israelites and that of the Egyptians, stating that none of the animals belonging to the Israelites would die. The LORD set a specific time for this plague to occur, and the following day, as declared, all the livestock of the Egyptians died, but not a single animal belonging to the Israelites perished. Despite this clear demonstration of divine power and protection over His people, Pharaoh's heart remained hardened, and he did not let the Israelites go. Theological Significance: The Plague on Cattle serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to protect His people while executing judgment on their oppressors. This event highlights the LORD's control over creation and His capacity to distinguish between those who are His and those who oppose Him. The selective nature of the plague underscores the covenant relationship between God and the Israelites, affirming His promise to be their protector and deliverer. Cultural and Religious Context: In the ancient Egyptian context, cattle were not only a vital economic resource but also held religious significance. The Egyptians revered certain animals, such as the bull, which was associated with deities like Apis and Hathor. By striking the livestock, God demonstrated His supremacy over the Egyptian gods and the futility of their worship. This act would have been a direct challenge to the religious beliefs of the Egyptians, further illustrating the LORD's power over all false gods. Moral and Ethical Implications: The Plague on Cattle serves as a reminder of the consequences of hard-heartedness and disobedience to God's commands. Pharaoh's refusal to heed the warnings and release the Israelites resulted in the suffering and economic loss for his people. This narrative encourages believers to remain obedient to God's will and to recognize His authority in all aspects of life. Historical and Archaeological Considerations: While there is limited direct archaeological evidence for the plagues, the account aligns with the broader historical context of ancient Egypt, where livestock played a crucial role in society. The specificity of the plague affecting only Egyptian livestock while sparing the Israelites' animals is consistent with the biblical theme of divine intervention and protection. In summary, the Plague on Cattle is a profound demonstration of God's power, judgment, and faithfulness to His people, serving as a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Exodus and the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 9:1-7Then the LORD said to Moses, Go in to Pharaoh, and tell him, Thus said the LORD God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may serve me. Nave's Topical Index Library On his Father'S Silence, Because of the Plague of Hail. Joel's Rhapsody of the Locust Plague Concerning the Ten Plagues which came Upon the Egyptians. On Psalm Lxxvii. Or Lxxviii. The Rod that Troubled Egypt. On the Holy Ghost and his Descent Upon the Apostles Give us this Day Our Daily Bread. The Cost of Being Cruel and Stubborn Of the Disasters which Vexed the Roman Republic after the ... Sovereignty of God in Administration 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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