Exodus 7:23 (KJV)

What does Exodus 7:23 mean?

Exodus 7:23 describes how Pharaoh, after witnessing the first plague where the Nile was turned to blood, simply turned away and went back to his house, showing no concern or change of heart about what had happened. The verse emphasizes that Pharaoh did not let this sign affect him or move him to reconsider his stance.

In this scene, Moses and Aaron have just performed a miraculous sign before Pharaoh and his officials, turning the river into blood as a warning from God. Instead of being troubled or persuaded, Pharaoh remains unmoved and returns home, ignoring the suffering of his people and the seriousness of the event. The verse highlights Pharaoh's stubbornness and unwillingness to listen, even in the face of clear signs.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 7:23

• "set" (שָׂם, śām): This word means "to place" or "to set." Here, it is used in the phrase "neither did he set his heart," which means Pharaoh did not pay attention or give any real thought to what had happened.
• "heart" (לֵב, lēv): In Hebrew thought, the "heart" refers not just to emotions, but to the inner self, including mind and will. Pharaoh's refusal to "set his heart" means he deliberately chose not to consider or be moved by the plague.
• "this" (זֹּאת, zō't): The word points specifically to the event that just occurred—the turning of the Nile to blood. It shows Pharaoh ignored this particular sign, just as he would with others.

Why Exodus 7:23 matters

• This verse clarifies that Pharaoh's resistance was not due to ignorance or lack of evidence, but a willful decision to ignore what he saw.
• The verse sets a pattern for Pharaoh's repeated hardening of heart, which becomes a major theme in the following chapters.
• By showing Pharaoh's indifference even after a national disaster, the verse highlights the depth of his stubbornness and the seriousness of the conflict between Pharaoh and the God of Israel.