Exodus 7:20 Meaning and Explanation
“And Moses and Aaron did so, as the LORD commanded; and he lifted up the rod, and smote the waters that were in the river, in the sight of Pharaoh, and in the sight of his servants; and all the waters that were in the river were turned to blood.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses and Aaron obey: Aaron raises the rod, strikes the water before Pharaoh and his servants, and all the Nile's water turns to blood.
The Context of Exodus 7:20
The first plague occurs as God commanded, before Pharaoh.
What Does Exodus 7:20 Mean?
The action is witnessed. Pharaoh and his court see the transformation directly. It is not hidden, secret, or deniable. The rod strikes the water in their sight, and immediately the entire river becomes blood. The public nature of the event makes it impossible for Pharaoh to dismiss or explain away.
The obedience is again perfect. Moses and Aaron do exactly as commanded, neither adding nor diminishing. The rod strikes, and the power that turned the rod into a serpent now turns an entire river to blood. The escalation of God's visible power is clear.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 7:20
What does Exodus 7:20 mean?
Moses and Aaron obey: Aaron raises the rod, strikes the water before Pharaoh and his servants, and all the Nile's water turns to blood.
What is the context of Exodus 7:20?
The first plague occurs as God commanded, before Pharaoh.