Catholic Public Domain Version
Exodus 10:15
“And they covered the entire face of the land, laying waste to all things. And the plants of the land were devoured, along with whatever fruits were on the trees, which the hail had left behind. And nothing at all of the greenery remained on the trees or on the plants of the earth in all of Egypt.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Exodus 10:15.
Plain-language explanation
Exodus 10:15 describes the aftermath of the plague of locusts: they covered the land, destroyed crops and plants, ate the remaining fruits on trees, and left Egypt with virtually no greenery.
Catholic context
Many Catholics read this as part of God’s warnings to Pharaoh—showing that pride and refusal to listen have consequences. The verse highlights the totality of the damage, so the reader feels the contrast between God’s command and human stubbornness.
Historical background
In the story, the locusts come after other plagues. In an agrarian society, locusts could devastate harvests quickly. The description emphasizes that Egypt’s agricultural life was left almost completely ruined.
Reflection
It can be sobering to see how quickly something living and productive can be stripped away. The verse invites us to notice what we might cling to, and to remember that God’s word is serious.
Practical takeaway
Pause and assess what “remaining greenery” you are relying on—talents, plans, possessions, status. Ask for the grace to hold them with gratitude, not as guarantees, and to respond promptly when God calls you.
Prayer
Lord God, help me not to harden my heart like Pharaoh. Teach me to listen, to repent, and to trust You even when what I depend on feels fragile. Restore what is barren in my life, and make me faithful to Your will. Amen.