Definition: And the LORD shall sever between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt: and there shall nothing die of all [that is] the childrenâs of Israel.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Exodus 9:4. It's a really powerful and significant verse in the Bible that speaks about God’s plan to protect his chosen people – Israel – from being enslaved. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: What it says: “And the LORD shall sever between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt: and there shall nothing die of all [that is] the children of Israel.” Let's unpack it: “The LORD shall sever…” : This means God will actively stop something happening. It’s not just a coincidence; God is directly intervening to prevent a disaster. “…between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt” : This is the core of the verse. It's comparing two groups of animals – Israelites (the people of Israel) and Egyptian livestock (cattle). It’s like saying “God will separate these two groups.” “And there shall nothing die of all [that is] the children of Israel” : This is the consequence of God’s action. "All that is the children of Israel" refers to all the Israelites – meaning every single person born into this nation. It means that nothing will die. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse is often interpreted as a promise of God’s protection and preservation . It speaks to: God’s Sovereignty: He’s in control and making decisions that benefit his people. Protection from Slavery: The primary reason for this separation is to prevent the Israelites from being enslaved by Egypt. This was a huge deal for the ancient Egyptians, as they were known for their harsh treatment of conquered peoples. God’s Care for His People: It highlights God’s unwavering commitment to his people and their well-being. He’s actively working to safeguard them from harm. Important Note: This verse is often debated among theologians. Some see it as a literal promise about the future, while others interpret it symbolically – as a guarantee of God's protection throughout history. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss its historical context (e.g., when and why was this verse written)?