MPV Commentary

Murrain of Beasts.

A fifth warning was given to Pharaoh by Moses, instructing him that if he continued to resist the Israelites' departure, a plague would strike all the flocks and herds of Egypt, while those of the Israelites would be spared. Since Pharaoh showed no intention of keeping his promise, he remained a target for God's judgment. The threatened plague was carried out as forewarned, but it is notable that in this instance, the calamity came directly from God's hand, rather than through Aaron's rod.

All the cattle of Egypt died, although not every single animal perished (Ex 9:19, 21). A significant number from each herd fell victim to the plague, causing widespread and frequent mortality. This judgment was particularly fitting because Egyptians revered their domesticated animals, such as oxen, cows, and rams, often building temples in their honor and paying them divine homage. The pestilence thus inflicted a double blow: it caused significant financial loss and struck at the heart of Egyptian superstition.

Pharaoh sent messengers to investigate the reports of the plague, indicating that he was unwilling to accept vague rumors. It appears that the extraordinary exemption of the Israelites' cattle had made some impression on his mind, but this did not lead to a lasting change in his attitude. His pride and obstinacy remained unbroken.