Exodus 10:27 (KJV)

What does Exodus 10:27 mean?

Exodus 10:27 says that the LORD made Pharaoh’s heart stubborn, so Pharaoh refused to let the Israelites leave Egypt. This verse shows that Pharaoh’s resistance was not just his own choice, but also something God allowed or caused to happen at this stage in the story.

In this part of Exodus, Moses is speaking to Pharaoh during the time of the plagues. The Israelites are still slaves in Egypt, and God has sent Moses to demand their release. The verse highlights that Pharaoh’s refusal is part of a larger pattern, where God is involved in the unfolding events, even in Pharaoh’s stubbornness.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 10:27

• "hardened" (חָזַק, ḥāzaq): This word means to strengthen, make firm, or make stubborn. In this context, it suggests that Pharaoh’s heart was made unyielding, not just emotionally resistant but firmly set against letting the Israelites go.
• "heart" (לֵב, lēv): In Hebrew thought, the heart is the center of will and decision-making, not just feelings. The verse is saying Pharaoh’s whole inner resolve was made strong against releasing the Israelites.
• "would" (אָבָה, ’āvāh): This word means to be unwilling or to refuse. It emphasizes that Pharaoh’s refusal was a deliberate act of will, not just a passing feeling.

Why Exodus 10:27 matters

• This verse helps clear up the idea that Pharaoh’s stubbornness was only a personal flaw; the text says God played a role in making Pharaoh’s heart firm, which is important for understanding the story’s flow.
• Exodus 10:27 is part of a repeated theme where Pharaoh’s heart is hardened, showing that the plagues and Pharaoh’s refusals are not random but serve a purpose in the larger narrative.
• The verse sets up the final, more severe plagues, showing that Pharaoh’s refusal is leading to even greater consequences for Egypt and a dramatic turning point for the Israelites.