Exodus 9:20 (KJV)

What does Exodus 9:20 mean?

Exodus 9:20 describes how some of Pharaoh’s officials who respected what the LORD said took action to protect their servants and livestock by bringing them indoors. These officials believed the warning about the coming plague and acted to avoid harm.

In this part of the story, Moses has delivered a warning from the LORD about a deadly hailstorm that will strike Egypt. The verse points out that not everyone in Pharaoh’s court ignored the warning—some took it seriously and tried to save what they could. This shows that even among Pharaoh’s people, there were those who recognized the power of the LORD’s word.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 9:20

• The word "feared" (יָרֵא, yare) means to have reverence or deep respect, often mixed with fear. Here, it shows that some Egyptians truly took the LORD’s warning seriously, not just as a threat but as something real and powerful.
• The word "word" (דָּבָר, davar) refers to the message or command from the LORD. The verse highlights that it was not just any message, but specifically what the LORD had spoken through Moses.
• The word "flee" (נוּס, nus) means to escape quickly or seek safety. The officials made their servants and animals "flee" into the houses, showing urgent action in response to the warning.
• The word "houses" (בַּיִת, bayit) means homes or shelters. Bringing the servants and cattle into the houses was an unusual step, showing the seriousness with which they took the warning.

Why Exodus 9:20 matters

• Exodus 9:20 clears up the idea that all Egyptians were stubborn or ignored Moses; some responded wisely to God’s warning.
• The verse emphasizes personal responsibility—those who respected the LORD’s word acted to protect life, while others did not.
• This detail connects to the larger story by showing a growing recognition, even among Egypt’s leaders, of the LORD’s power and the truth of His warnings.