Exodus 8:16
Exodus 8:16 Meaning and Explanation
“And the LORD said unto Moses, Say unto Aaron, Stretch out thy rod, and smite the dust of the land, that it may become lice throughout all the land of Egypt.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God commands Aaron to strike the dust, which will transform into lice covering Egypt.
The Context of Exodus 8:16
God commands the third plague.
What Does Exodus 8:16 Mean?
The third plague begins with a new command. Aaron's rod—now the instrument of judgment—must strike the dust itself, transforming the very ground into a plague agent. This plague targets what covers the earth.
Lice (or gnats) infest bodies and clothing, causing constant irritation. Unlike the visible destruction of frogs, lice work through crawling discomfort—a more intimate form of suffering.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 8:16
What does Exodus 8:16 mean?
God commands Aaron to strike the dust, which will transform into lice covering Egypt.
What is the context of Exodus 8:16?
God commands the third plague.