MPV Commentary

The plague of boils was the next affliction to strike the Egyptians. It appeared as painful ulcers on their skin and flesh (Leviticus 13:20; 2 Kings 20:7; Job 2:7). The fact that this epidemic did not arise from natural causes is evident in its connection to Moses' actions, which were performed in Pharaoh's presence.

Moses took handfuls of ashes from the brick-kiln and scattered them before the Lord (Exodus 9:8). This action was reminiscent of Eastern magicians who would pronounce curses by throwing ashes into the air, saying that a particular sickness or curse would come upon their enemies. The fact that Moses used ashes from the furnace is significant, as it highlights the Egyptians' oppression of the Israelites through forced labor (Deuteronomy 4:20; 1 Kings 8:51; Jeremiah 11:4).