Definition: And he hardened Pharaoh’s heart, that he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 7:13. It’s a really important and dramatic passage in the story of Moses and the Israelites escaping Egypt. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: Pharaoh is resisting God: The verse describes Pharaoh, the powerful ruler of Egypt, refusing to let the Israelites go after they escaped from Egypt. He’s stubbornly holding onto his laws and traditions, even though God had told him to release them. God’s Command: God had specifically instructed Pharaoh to let the Israelites go, but he didn't obey. God is essentially saying, "You need to listen to me!" Let’s unpack it further: “He hardened his heart” : This means that Pharaoh became stubborn and unyielding . He refused to believe God’s word or to understand the importance of releasing the Israelites. It's like a wall he built around himself, preventing him from seeing what was right. “That he hearkened not unto them” : This is key! “Hearkened” means to listen closely and attentively. Pharaoh didn’t listen to God’s instructions. He continued to ignore the laws that God gave him. “As the LORD had said” : This is where it gets really significant. God told Pharaoh, "You must release them." This verse emphasizes that this wasn't just a random act of stubbornness; it was because God specifically told him to do so. It’s like a clear instruction from a trusted authority. In short: Pharaoh refused to listen to God, and his stubbornness resulted in God’s instructions being ignored. This is the beginning of a really dramatic story – the Israelites are about to leave Egypt! --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Provide context for why this event was so important in the creation of the Israelites? Or perhaps delve into a related passage from Exodus?