Exodus 9:6
And the LORD did that thing on the morrow, and all the cattle of Egypt died: but of the cattle of the children of Israel died not one.
Exodus 9:6 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Exodus, the LORD brings a plague upon the land of Egypt, causing all the cattle of Egypt to die. This plague is one of the ten plagues that God sent upon Egypt to secure the release of the Israelites from bondage. The significance of this verse lies in the protection that God provided for the children of Israel during this terrible time. Despite the devastating impact of the plague on Egypt, not a single one of the cattle belonging to the Israelites perished. This act of divine intervention highlights God's faithfulness and his ability to protect and provide for his people even in the midst of great adversity. It also serves as a reminder of the power and sovereignty of God over all creation. By sparing the cattle of the children of Israel, God demonstrated his love and care for his chosen people, reinforcing the special relationship he had with them.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, there are deep theological implications regarding the Lord's power and protection over His chosen people. The verse emphasizes the contrast between the devastation that befell the cattle of Egypt and the preservation of the livestock belonging to the children of Israel. Through this display of power, the Lord asserts His authority over all creation, showing that He alone has the ability to bring about life and death. The word 'died' in this context carries weight in highlighting the severity of the judgment brought upon the Egyptians while simultaneously underscoring the miraculous protection granted to the Israelites. This verse serves as a reminder of the Lord's sovereignty and his ability to bring both mercy and judgment upon those who either reject or accept His will.
Exodus 9:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Jehovah did that thing on the morrow; and all the cattle of Egypt died; but of the cattle of the children of Israel died not one.
World English Bible
Yahweh did that thing on the next day; and all the livestock of Egypt died, but of the livestock of the children of Israel, not one died.
Douay-Rheims
The Lord therefore did this thing the next day: and all the beasts of the Egyptians died, but of the beasts of the children of Israel there died not one.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So the Lord did this thing on the morow, and all the cattel of Egypt dyed: but of the cattell of the children of Israel dyed not one.