Exodus 4:21
And the LORD said unto Moses, When thou goest to return into Egypt, see that thou do all those wonders before Pharaoh, which I have put in thine hand: but I will harden his heart, that he shall not let the people go.
Exodus 4:21 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, God is instructing Moses to go back to Egypt and perform miracles before Pharaoh to show the power of God. The wonders that Moses performs are meant to demonstrate God's authority and demand the release of the Israelites from slavery. However, it is important to note that God also mentions that he will harden Pharaoh's heart, leading him to resist letting the people go. This hardening of Pharaoh's heart serves as a test of faith and a display of God's ultimate power. It is a demonstration of God's control over all things, even the hearts of rulers. This verse highlights the power of God to work through both miracles and human will, showcasing his sovereignty and authority in all circumstances. It also reminds us of the importance of trusting in God's plan, even when faced with challenges and resistance.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Exodus 4:21, God instructs Moses to perform wonders before Pharaoh in order to convince him to let the Israelites go. However, God also informs Moses that He will harden Pharaoh's heart, causing him to refuse to release the Hebrew people. The theological interpretation of this verse raises questions about God's sovereignty and Pharaoh's free will. Some scholars suggest that God's hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a form of judgment for his stubbornness and oppression of the Israelites. Others view it as part of God's larger plan to demonstrate His power and glory through the deliverance of His people. Word studies on phrases like "harden his heart" can shed light on the Hebrew language nuances and help clarify the meaning of the verse for readers. Overall, this verse highlights the complex interplay between divine intervention and human responsibility in the biblical narrative of the Exodus.
Exodus 4:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Jehovah said unto Moses, When thou goest back into Egypt, see that thou do before Pharaoh all the wonders which I have put in thy hand: but I will harden his heart, and he will not let the people go.
World English Bible
Yahweh said to Moses, “When you go back into Egypt, see that you do before Pharaoh all the wonders which I have put in your hand, but I will harden his heart and he will not let the people go.
Douay-Rheims
And the Lord said to him as he was returning into Egypt: See that thou do all the wonders before Pharao, which I have put in thy hand: I shall harden his heart, and he will not let the people go.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the Lord saide vnto Moses, When thou art entred and come into Egypt againe, see that thou doe all the wonders before Pharaoh, which I haue put in thine hand: but I will harden his heart, and he shall not let the people goe.