Catholic Public Domain Version
Exodus 9:18
“So then, tomorrow, at this same hour, I will rain down exceedingly great hail, such as has not been in Egypt from the day that it was founded, even until this present time.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Exodus 9:18.
Plain-language explanation
Moses tells Pharaoh that the next day, at the same time, God will send an extraordinary storm of hail—so severe that it has never happened in Egypt since the country was formed, even up to that very day.
Catholic context
Catholics often read this as a reminder that God is Lord over nature and history, and that His warnings are not empty threats. The plagues show both justice and mercy: God gives Pharaoh time to respond before further judgments.
Historical background
In the setting of Exodus, Pharaoh refuses to let Israel go. The hail-plague comes as a dramatic sign to Egypt that the conflict is ultimately between Pharaoh’s power and God’s power. The claim that such hail never occurred “since the day Egypt was founded” emphasizes how shocking and unprecedented God’s intervention is.
Reflection
God sets a clear time—“tomorrow, at this same hour”—which highlights that God’s authority is orderly and intentional. Even in a harsh moment, God is communicating: the world is not ultimately controlled by human rulers.
Practical takeaway
When you face a situation where you feel powerless, pause and remember: God sees, God acts, and God’s timing is not random. Also, take warnings seriously—respond sooner rather than later to God’s call to change.
Prayer
Lord God, you rule over all creation. Strengthen our trust when circumstances feel beyond our control, and help us to respond to Your guidance with courage and sincerity. Amen.