Exodus 4:9

Exodus 4:9 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

But if they do not believe even these two signs or listen to your voice, take some water from the Nile and pour it on the dry ground. Then the water you take from the Nile will become blood on the ground.”

King James Version KJV

And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice, that thou shalt take of the water of the river, and pour it upon the dry land: and the water which thou takest out of the river shall become blood upon the dry land.

American Standard Version ASV

And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe even these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice, that thou shalt take of the water of the river, and pour it upon the dry land: and the water which thou takest out of the river shall become blood upon the dry land.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And if they have no faith even in these two signs and will not give ear to your voice, then you are to take the water of the Nile and put it on the dry land: and the water you take out of the river will become blood on the dry land.

Free Bible Version FBV

“But if they still don't believe you or listen to you because of these two signs, then you are to take some water from the Nile and pour it out on the ground. The Nile water will turn into blood on the ground.”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

But if they will not yet beleeue these two signes, neither obey vnto thy voyce, then shalt thou take of the water of the riuer, and powre it vpon the drie lande: so the water which thou shalt take out of the riuer, shalbe turned to blood vpon the drie land.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

'And it hath come to pass, if they do not give credence even to these two signs, nor hearken to thy voice, that thou hast taken of the waters of the River, and hast poured on the dry land, and the waters which thou takest from the River have been, yea, they have become — blood on the dry land.'

World English Bible WEB

It will happen, if they will not believe even these two signs or listen to your voice, that you shall take of the water of the river, and pour it on the dry land. The water which you take out of the river will become blood on the dry land.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs, neither hearken to thy voice, that thou shalt take of the water of the river, and pour it upon the dry land: and the water which thou takest out of the river shall become blood upon the dry land.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

But if they will not even believe these two signs, nor hear thy voice: take of the river water, and pour it out upon the dry land, and whatsoever thou drawest out of the river shall be turned into blood.

Translation for Translators T4T

If they do not believe you or do what you say, even after you perform those two miracles, get some water from the Nile River and pour it on the ground. When you do that, the water from the river that you pour on the ground will become blood [MTY] (OR, red like blood).”

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Berean Amplified Bible — Exodus 4:9

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Exodus 4:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וְ/הָיָ֡ה אִם לֹ֣א יַאֲמִ֡ינוּ גַּם֩ לִ/שְׁנֵ֨י הָ/אֹת֜וֹת הָ/אֵ֗לֶּה וְ/לֹ֤א יִשְׁמְעוּ/ן֙ לְ/קֹלֶ֔/ךָ וְ/לָקַחְתָּ֙ מִ/מֵּימֵ֣י הַ/יְאֹ֔ר וְ/שָׁפַכְתָּ֖ הַ/יַּבָּשָׁ֑ה וְ/הָי֤וּ הַ/מַּ֨יִם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תִּקַּ֣ח מִן הַ/יְאֹ֔ר וְ/הָי֥וּ לְ/דָ֖ם בַּ/יַּבָּֽשֶׁת

וְ/הָיָ֡ה hâyâh H1961 to be Conj | V-Qal-3ms

אִם ʼim H518 if Conj

לֹ֣א lôʼ H3808 not Part

יַאֲמִ֡ינוּ ʼâman H539 be faithful V-Hiphil-Imperf-3mp

גַּם֩ gam H1571 also DirObjM

לִ/שְׁנֵ֨י shᵉnayim H8147 two Prep | Adj

הָ/אֹת֜וֹת ʼôwth H226 sign Art | N-cp

הָ/אֵ֗לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 these Art | Pron

וְ/לֹ֤א lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

יִשְׁמְעוּ/ן֙ shâmaʻ H8085 to hear V-Qal-Imperf-3mp | Suff

לְ/קֹלֶ֔/ךָ qôwl H6963 voice Prep | N-ms | Suff

וְ/לָקַחְתָּ֙ lâqach H3947 to take Conj | V-Qal-2ms

מִ/מֵּימֵ֣י mayim H4325 Water (Gate) Prep | N-mp

הַ/יְאֹ֔ר yᵉʼôr H2975 stream Art | N-proper

וְ/שָׁפַכְתָּ֖ shâphak H8210 to pour Conj | V-Qal-2ms

הַ/יַּבָּשָׁ֑ה yabbâshâh H3004 dry land Art | N-fs

וְ/הָי֤וּ hâyâh H1961 to be Conj | V-Qal-3cp

הַ/מַּ֨יִם֙ mayim H4325 Water (Gate) Art | N-mp

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

תִּקַּ֣ח lâqach H3947 to take V-Qal-Imperf-2ms

מִן min H4480 from Prep

הַ/יְאֹ֔ר yᵉʼôr H2975 stream Art | N-proper

וְ/הָי֥וּ hâyâh H1961 to be Conj | V-Qal-3cp

לְ/דָ֖ם dâm H1818 blood Prep | N-ms

בַּ/יַּבָּֽשֶׁת yabbesheth H3006 dry land Prep | N-fs

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Exodus 4:9

וְ/הָיָ֡ה hâyâh H1961 "to be" Conj | V-Qal-3ms

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.

אִם ʼim H518 "if" Conj

This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.

Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather

Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.

לֹ֣א lôʼ H3808 "not" Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

יַאֲמִ֡ינוּ ʼâman H539 "be faithful" V-Hiphil-Imperf-3mp

This Hebrew word means to be faithful or trustworthy, as seen in the KJV translations. It can also mean to support or confirm something, and is used in passages like Psalm 37:3 to describe trusting in God. The concept of faithfulness is central to the book of Proverbs.

Definition: 1) to support, confirm, be faithful 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to support, confirm, be faithful, uphold, nourish 1a1a) foster-father (subst.) 1a1b) foster-mother, nurse 1a1c) pillars, supporters of the door 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be established, be faithful, be carried, make firm 1b1a) to be carried by a nurse 1b1b) made firm, sure, lasting 1b1c) confirmed, established, sure 1b1d) verified, confirmed 1b1e) reliable, faithful, trusty 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to stand firm, to trust, to be certain, to believe in 1c1a) stand firm 1c1b) trust, believe Aramaic equivalent: a.man (אֲמַן "to trust" H0540)

Usage: Occurs in 102 OT verses. KJV: hence, assurance, believe, bring up, establish, [phrase] fail, be faithful (of long continuance, stedfast, sure, surely, trusty, verified), nurse, (-ing father), (put), trust, turn to the right. See also: Genesis 15:6; Job 24:22; Psalms 12:2.

גַּם֩ gam H1571 "also" DirObjM

Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.

Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike

Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.

לִ/שְׁנֵ֨י shᵉnayim H8147 "two" Prep | Adj

The Hebrew word for the number two appears in Genesis and Exodus, describing pairs and dualities. It can also mean double or twice. In the Bible, it is often used to describe things that come in twos, like two witnesses or two tablets.

Definition: 1) two 1a) two (the cardinal number) 1a1) two, both, double, twice 1b) second (the ordinal number) 1c) in combination with other numbers 1d) both (a dual number)

Usage: Occurs in 646 OT verses. KJV: both, couple, double, second, twain, [phrase] twelfth, [phrase] twelve, [phrase] twenty (sixscore) thousand, twice, two. See also: Genesis 1:16; Exodus 30:4; Numbers 13:23.

הָ/אֹת֜וֹת ʼôwth H226 "sign" Art | N-cp

A miraculous sign or wonder, like a beacon or monument. In the Bible, it appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah. It means a signal or token of God's power.

Definition: : miraculous 1) sign, signal 1a) a distinguishing mark 1b) banner 1c) remembrance 1d) miraculous sign 1e) omen 1f) warning 2) token, ensign, standard, miracle, proof

Usage: Occurs in 77 OT verses. KJV: mark, miracle, (en-) sign, token. See also: Genesis 1:14; Joshua 2:12; Psalms 65:9.

הָ/אֵ֗לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 "these" Art | Pron

This Hebrew word is used to point out specific people or things, like saying 'these' or 'those'. It appears in the book of Genesis, where God says 'let there be light' and separates the light from the darkness.

Definition: 1) these 1a) used before antecedent 1b) used following antecedent Aramaic equivalent: el.leh (אֵלֶּה "these" H0429)

Usage: Occurs in 697 OT verses. KJV: an-(the) other; one sort, so, some, such, them, these (same), they, this, those, thus, which, who(-m). See also: Genesis 2:4; Exodus 35:1; Deuteronomy 1:35.

וְ/לֹ֤א lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

יִשְׁמְעוּ/ן֙ shâmaʻ H8085 "to hear" V-Qal-Imperf-3mp | Suff

To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.

Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound

Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.

לְ/קֹלֶ֔/ךָ qôwl H6963 "voice" Prep | N-ms | Suff

A voice or sound, it can refer to the sound of a person speaking, an animal, or a musical instrument. In the Bible, it is often used to describe God's voice or the sound of praise and worship.

Definition: : sound/noise 1) voice, sound, noise 1a) voice 1b) sound (of instrument)

Usage: Occurs in 436 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, bleating, crackling, cry ([phrase] out), fame, lightness, lowing, noise, [phrase] hold peace, (pro-) claim, proclamation, [phrase] sing, sound, [phrase] spark, thunder(-ing), voice, [phrase] yell. See also: Genesis 3:8; Judges 5:11; Job 4:10.

וְ/לָקַחְתָּ֙ lâqach H3947 "to take" Conj | V-Qal-2ms

This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.

Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)

Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.

מִ/מֵּימֵ֣י mayim H4325 "Water (Gate)" Prep | N-mp

This word means water, referring to a liquid or a source of refreshment. It appears in the Bible as a literal and figurative term, including references to wasting or urine. The word is used in various contexts, such as in Genesis and Leviticus.

Definition: This name means water, refreshment

Usage: Occurs in 525 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] piss, wasting, water(-ing, (-course, -flood, -spring)). See also: Genesis 1:2; Leviticus 14:9; Joshua 18:15.

הַ/יְאֹ֔ר yᵉʼôr H2975 "stream" Art | N-proper

A stream or river, like the Nile, is what this word refers to. It can also mean a canal, watercourse, or even a mining shaft, emphasizing the flow of water.

Definition: 1) river, stream, canal, Nile, Nile-canal 1a) stream, river (Nile) 1b) Nile-arms, Nile-canals 1c) watercourses 1d) shafts (mining) 1e) river (in general)

Usage: Occurs in 48 OT verses. KJV: brook, flood, river, stream. See also: Genesis 41:1; Psalms 78:44; Isaiah 7:18.

וְ/שָׁפַכְתָּ֖ shâphak H8210 "to pour" Conj | V-Qal-2ms

To pour or spill something out, like blood or a liquid. In the Bible, it can mean to shed blood or to pour out one's heart in prayer or complaint. For example, in Psalm 42:4, the writer pours out his soul to God.

Definition: : pour 1) to pour, pour out, spill 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pour, pour out 1a2) to shed (blood) 1a3) to pour out (anger or heart) (fig) 1b) (Niphal) to be poured out, be shed 1c) (Pual) to be poured out, be shed 1d) (Hithpael) 1d1) to be poured out 1d2) to pour out oneself

Usage: Occurs in 111 OT verses. KJV: cast (up), gush out, pour (out), shed(-der, out), slip. See also: Genesis 9:6; Jeremiah 6:6; Psalms 22:15.

הַ/יַּבָּשָׁ֑ה yabbâshâh H3004 "dry land" Art | N-fs

Describes dry land or ground, often contrasting it with water or wet conditions. This word is used in stories like the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus 14. It emphasizes the solidity of the ground.

Definition: dry land, dry ground

Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: dry (ground, land). See also: Genesis 1:9; Joshua 4:22; Psalms 66:6.

וְ/הָי֤וּ hâyâh H1961 "to be" Conj | V-Qal-3cp

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

הַ/מַּ֨יִם֙ mayim H4325 "Water (Gate)" Art | N-mp

Definition: This name means water, refreshment

Usage: Occurs in 525 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] piss, wasting, water(-ing, (-course, -flood, -spring)). See also: Genesis 1:2; Leviticus 14:9; Joshua 18:15.

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

תִּקַּ֣ח lâqach H3947 "to take" V-Qal-Imperf-2ms

מִן min H4480 "from" Prep

This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.

Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)

Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.

הַ/יְאֹ֔ר yᵉʼôr H2975 "stream" Art | N-proper

A stream or river, like the Nile, is what this word refers to. It can also mean a canal, watercourse, or even a mining shaft, emphasizing the flow of water.

Definition: 1) river, stream, canal, Nile, Nile-canal 1a) stream, river (Nile) 1b) Nile-arms, Nile-canals 1c) watercourses 1d) shafts (mining) 1e) river (in general)

Usage: Occurs in 48 OT verses. KJV: brook, flood, river, stream. See also: Genesis 41:1; Psalms 78:44; Isaiah 7:18.

וְ/הָי֥וּ hâyâh H1961 "to be" Conj | V-Qal-3cp

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

לְ/דָ֖ם dâm H1818 "blood" Prep | N-ms

Blood refers to the liquid that flows through the body, essential for life. In the Bible, blood is often used to symbolize life, guilt, or sacrifice, as seen in the story of Jesus' crucifixion.

Definition: 1) blood 1a) of wine (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 295 OT verses. KJV: blood(-y, -guiltiness, (-thirsty), [phrase] innocent. See also: Genesis 4:10; Numbers 19:5; Psalms 5:7.

בַּ/יַּבָּֽשֶׁת yabbesheth H3006 "dry land" Prep | N-fs

Means dry land, similar to H3004, and is used to describe solid ground that is free from water. This word is used in the Bible to describe the earth and is an Aramaic equivalent of the Hebrew word for dry land.

Definition: dry land Aramaic equivalent: yab.be.shet (יַבֶּ֫שֶׁת "earth" H3007)

Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: dry land. See also: Exodus 4:9; Psalms 95:5.

Study Notes — Exodus 4:9

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Matthew Poole's Commentary on Exodus 4:9
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Cambridge Bible on Exodus 4:9
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Sermons on Exodus 4:9

Context — Moses’ Hand

7“Put your hand back inside your cloak,” said the LORD. So Moses put his hand back inside his cloak, and when he took it out, it was restored, like the rest of his skin. 8And the LORD said, “If they refuse to believe you or heed the witness of the first sign, they may believe that of the second.

9But if they do not believe even these two signs or listen to your voice, take some water from the Nile and pour it on the dry ground. Then the water you take from the Nile will become blood on the ground.”

10“Please, Lord,” Moses replied, “I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since You have spoken to Your servant, for I am slow of speech and tongue.” 11And the LORD said to him, “Who gave man his mouth? Or who makes the mute or the deaf, the sighted or the blind? Is it not I, the LORD?

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Exodus 7:19–25	And the LORD said to Moses, “Tell Aaron, ‘Take your staff and stretch out your hand over the waters of Egypt—over their rivers and canals and ponds and reservoirs—that they may become blood.’ There will be blood throughout the land of Egypt, even in the vessels of wood and stone.” Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded; in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials, Aaron raised the staff and struck the water of the Nile, and all the water was turned to blood. The fish in the Nile died, and the river smelled so bad that the Egyptians could not drink its water. And there was blood throughout the land of Egypt. But the magicians of Egypt did the same things by their magic arts. So Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had said. Instead, Pharaoh turned around, went into his palace, and did not take any of this to heart. So all the Egyptians dug around the Nile for water to drink, because they could not drink the water from the river. And seven full days passed after the LORD had struck the Nile.
2	Exodus 1:22	Then Pharaoh commanded all his people: “Every son born to the Hebrews you must throw into the Nile, but every daughter you may allow to live.”
3	Matthew 7:2	For with the same judgment you pronounce, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

Exodus 4:9 Summary

This verse, Exodus 4:9, is about God giving Moses a third sign to show the Israelites, in case they don't believe the first two signs. God tells Moses to take some water from the Nile and pour it on the dry ground, and it will turn to blood. This is a powerful sign of God's judgment and power, as seen in other parts of the Bible, such as Exodus 7:17-20 and Revelation 16:4. It reminds us that God is all-powerful and can do amazing things, and that we should trust in Him and His plan, as stated in Jeremiah 29:11 and Romans 8:28.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Nile water turning to blood in Exodus 4:9?

The Nile water turning to blood is a sign of God's power and judgment, as seen in Exodus 7:17-20, where the same miracle is performed on a larger scale, and in Revelation 16:4, where a similar event occurs during the end times.

Why did God instruct Moses to perform three different signs for the Israelites?

God instructed Moses to perform three signs to demonstrate His power and to convince the Israelites of Moses' divine commission, as stated in Exodus 4:8-9, and to prepare them for the miracles that would occur during the Exodus, as seen in Exodus 14:13-31.

How does Exodus 4:9 relate to the rest of the Exodus story?

Exodus 4:9 sets the stage for the plagues that God would bring upon Egypt, including the turning of the Nile to blood, as seen in Exodus 7:14-24, and demonstrates God's patience and desire to warn the Egyptians before bringing judgment, as seen in Exodus 9:13-16 and Romans 2:4.

What can we learn from Moses' conversation with God in Exodus 4:9-11?

We can learn that God is patient and understanding, as seen in Exodus 4:10-11, where He responds to Moses' concerns, and that He is the giver of all gifts and abilities, including speech and eloquence, as stated in Exodus 4:11 and supported by Psalm 94:9 and Matthew 10:19-20.

Reflection Questions

What are some areas in my life where I need to trust in God's power and provision, just as Moses had to trust in God's signs and miracles?
How can I, like Moses, be a vessel for God's message and power in my community and world, as seen in Exodus 4:9-12 and supported by 2 Corinthians 4:7 and 1 Peter 3:15?
What are some 'Nile waters' in my life that need to be turned to 'blood', or transformed by God's power, in order for me to fulfill my calling and purpose, as seen in Exodus 4:9 and 2 Corinthians 12:9-10?
How can I, like Moses, learn to rely on God's strength and wisdom, rather than my own abilities, in order to accomplish His will, as seen in Exodus 4:10-12 and supported by Proverbs 3:5-6 and Philippians 4:13?

Gill's Exposition on Exodus 4:9

And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs,.... Performed before their eyes; for these were done over again when Moses came into Egypt to the Israelites, and yet some of

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Exodus 4:9

And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice, that thou shalt take of the water of the river, and pour it upon the dry land: and the water

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Exodus 4:9

The river Nile, well known to Moses, and called so by way of eminency, as Euphrates also is. Shall become, Heb. shall be, even shall be, i.e. it shall assuredly be so.

Trapp's Commentary on Exodus 4:9

Exodus 4:9 And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice, that thou shalt take of the water of the river, and pour [it] upon the dry [land]: and the water which thou takest out of the river shall become blood upon the dry [land].Ver. 9. Shall become blood.] In the year 874, in Brixia in Italy, it rained blood for three days and three nights. In 1505, there appeared in Germany, upon the garments of men and women various prints and tokens of the nails, of the sponge, of the spear, of the Lord’ s coat, and of bloody crosses. Maximilian, the Emperor, had, and showed the same to Francis Mirandula, who thereupon wrote his "Staurestichon," and therein thus - “ Non ignota cane, Caesar monstravit, et ipsi Vidimus; innumeros prompsit Germania testes.” In the third year of Queen Mary, William Pikes being at liberty after imprisonment, and going into his garden, took with him a Bible: where sitting and reading, there suddenly fell down upon his book four drops of fresh blood, and he knew not from whence it came. Whereat he being sore astonished, and wiping out one of the drops with his finger, called his wife and said, In the virtue of God, wife, what meaneth this? Will the Lord have four sacrifices? I see well enough the Lord will have blood; his will be done, and give me grace to abide the trial, &c. Baleus Centur., 8. Func., Chronol. Act. and Mon., fol. 769, 1853.

Ellicott's Commentary on Exodus 4:9

(9) Shall become blood.—The verb is repeated in the Hebrew, which intensifies the assertion. The English equivalent of the phrase used would be, “shall assuredly become.” The signs were, no doubt, selected primarily for facility of exhibition; but they may also have been intended to be significant. The change of a rod into a serpent showed that a feeble implement might become a power to chastise and to destroy. That of a healthy into a leprous hand, and the reverse, indicated that Moses’s mission was both to punish and to save; while the change of water into blood suggested—albeit vaguely—the conversion of that peace and prosperity, which Egypt was enjoying, into calamity, suffering, and bloodshed.

Cambridge Bible on Exodus 4:9

9. The third sign, to be resorted to only if necessary. Water taker from the Nile, and poured upon the earth, to be turned into blood. the river (twice)] the Nile (Heb. ye’ôr): see on Exodus 1:22.

Whedon's Commentary on Exodus 4:9

9. The third sign symbolizes Jehovah’s power over Egypt and her gods. But for the Nile there would be no Egypt; and when Moses smote the water of the river he turned the very breast milk of Egypt to blood.

Sermons on Exodus 4:9

	Sermon	Description
	Holy of Holies Part I by Bertha Smith	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the role of a shepherd in guiding and protecting his sheep. He compares the behavior of sheep to that of cats, highlighting how sheep can easi
	Desert Survival Series Pt 11- Moses the Servant of God by Don Courville	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Moses and the children of God in the desert survival series. The speaker highlights the verse where Moses expresses his concern
	Three Signs God Gave to Moses by Zac Poonen	Zac Poonen preaches on God's call to Moses, emphasizing how God starts with what is already in our hands, just like He did with Moses' staff and Elisha's jar of oil. Through the si
	(Exodus) Exodus 1:9-16 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of the Israelites' enslavement in Egypt as described in the book of Exodus. The speaker highlights the accuracy of the biblical acco
	God Is Dependent on Broken Men for His Work on Earth by Zac Poonen	Zac Poonen emphasizes that God relies on broken individuals to fulfill His purposes on Earth, using the life of Moses as a prime example. He illustrates how Moses' early life in Ph
	The Sacrifice That Is Pleasing to God by Duncan Campbell	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the concept of God's second chance. He highlights that after death, there is no second chance, but in life, God gives us the opportunity to c
	Be a Blessing by Jim Cymbala	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the promises made by God to Abraham in Genesis. The four promises mentioned are: making Abraham into a great nation, blessing him, making his