Exodus 9:3 (KJV)

What does Exodus 9:3 mean?

Exodus 9:3 announces that God will bring a severe disease upon the Egyptians’ livestock in the fields, affecting their horses, donkeys, camels, cattle, and sheep. This is described as a “very grievous murrain,” meaning a devastating plague or pestilence that will strike these animals.

In this verse, God (through Moses) is warning Pharaoh of the fifth plague that will come if Pharaoh continues to refuse to let the Israelites go. The setting is Egypt, during the series of plagues, and the focus is on the direct impact this judgment will have on Egypt’s wealth and daily life, since livestock were essential for food, transportation, and farming.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 9:3

• “Hand” (יָד, yad): This word often symbolizes power or direct action. Here, it stresses that this plague is a deliberate act from God, not a random disaster.
• “Murrain” (דֶּבֶר, dever): This term refers to a fatal epidemic or plague affecting animals. It highlights the seriousness and scale of the coming disaster, not just a minor sickness but a sweeping, deadly outbreak.
• “Very grievous” (מְאֹד כָּבֵד, me’od kaved): These words together mean extremely severe or heavy. The emphasis is on just how devastating this plague will be, leaving no doubt about its impact.

Why Exodus 9:3 matters

• This verse clarifies that the plague targets animals in the field, not those kept indoors, showing a specific and controlled judgment.
• The mention of multiple types of animals underlines how thorough and widespread the impact will be, affecting every part of Egyptian society.
• By calling it the “hand of the LORD,” the verse makes clear that this is an intentional act from God, reinforcing the theme of God’s power and authority over Egypt and its king.