Definition: But when Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he hardened his heart, and hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 8:15. It’s a really important part of understanding how God handled a difficult situation in ancient Israel. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: God told Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, that Israelites (a group of people) were suffering from a terrible plague – they were dying and being robbed of their animals. God then said, “You need to be careful; you must not let this happen.” What Happened Next? Pharaoh didn't listen. He became stubborn and refused to listen to God’s instructions. He hardened his heart (meaning he became resistant to what was being told) and didn't heed the warning. The Key Takeaway: Essentially, Pharaoh ignored God’s guidance. This is a crucial point – it shows that disobeying God can have serious consequences. What does it mean in a broader sense? It highlights a few important things: God's Authority: It underscores that God has the ultimate authority and will to protect his people, even when they resist him. The Importance of Obedience: It reminds us that obeying God’s instructions is vital – it's not just about following rules, but about aligning with God's plan for our lives. In short, this verse warns against defiance and emphasizes the need to listen to God’s voice, even when it feels difficult. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? Provide context about what was happening at the time? Discuss the significance of this story within the larger narrative of the Old Testament?