Exodus 10:23 (KJV)

What does Exodus 10:23 mean?

Exodus 10:23 describes how, during the plague of darkness in Egypt, the Egyptians could not see each other or move from their places for three days, but the Israelites had light where they lived. This verse highlights a sharp difference between the experience of the Egyptians and the Israelites during this plague.

In this part of Exodus, God is sending plagues upon Egypt because Pharaoh refuses to let the Israelites go free. Moses, speaking for God, brings a darkness so thick that the Egyptians are trapped in place, unable to see or move. Meanwhile, the Israelites, living in the land of Goshen, are spared and have normal light in their homes, showing a clear sign of protection and distinction.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 10:23

• "Light" (אוֹר, 'or): This word means ordinary light or illumination. The verse emphasizes that while Egypt was in total darkness, the Israelites had regular, everyday light, making the contrast even more striking.
• "Dwellings" (מוֹשָׁב, moshav): This refers to places where people live or settle. The use of this word points out that the Israelites' homes specifically were filled with light, not just the general area, highlighting the personal nature of the protection.

Why Exodus 10:23 matters

• Exodus 10:23 clears up any idea that the plague of darkness was just a natural event; the selective nature of the darkness, affecting only the Egyptians and not the Israelites, shows it was a purposeful act.
• The verse emphasizes how God made a visible distinction between His people and the Egyptians, which is a recurring theme throughout the plagues.
• This moment sets up the growing tension between Pharaoh and Moses, as each plague becomes more severe and the difference between the two peoples becomes more obvious.