Exodus 8:15 (KJV)

What does Exodus 8:15 mean?

Exodus 8:15 describes how Pharaoh, after seeing relief from the plague, stubbornly refused to listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had warned would happen. Pharaoh’s heart became hard again, and he did not let the Israelites go.

In this verse, the story is set during the plagues in Egypt. Moses and Aaron have pleaded with Pharaoh to let the Israelites leave, and God has sent plagues as signs. When the plague of frogs ends and there is "respite," Pharaoh changes his mind and ignores Moses and Aaron, showing a pattern of resistance that matches what God had said would occur.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 8:15

• "Respite" (רְוָחָה, rᵊvāḥāh) means relief or a break from suffering. This word highlights that Pharaoh’s change of heart came specifically when the pressure was off, not out of genuine repentance.
• "Hardened" (כָּבֵד, kaved) literally means "to make heavy" or "to make stubborn." In this context, it emphasizes Pharaoh’s deliberate refusal to change, not just a passive reaction.
• "Heart" (לֵב, lev) in Hebrew often refers to the inner self, including will and intentions, not just emotions. Pharaoh’s "heart" being hardened means his whole attitude and decision-making remained unchanged.
• "Hearkened" (שָׁמַע, shama) means to listen or obey. Pharaoh’s refusal to "hearken" shows he actively chose not to respond to Moses and Aaron’s message.

Why Exodus 8:15 matters

• This verse clarifies that Pharaoh’s stubbornness was not just a one-time reaction but a repeated pattern, especially when the immediate threat was removed.
• The verse shows that Pharaoh’s resistance was exactly as God had predicted, highlighting God’s foreknowledge and the unfolding of His plan.
• Understanding the specific Hebrew words helps us see that Pharaoh’s refusal was intentional and deeply rooted, not just a fleeting mood or misunderstanding.