Exodus 8:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And they did so; for Aaron stretched out his hand with his rod, and smote the dust of the earth, and it became lice in man, and in beast; all the dust of the land became lice throughout all the land of Egypt.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Aaron obeys, striking the dust until all dust becomes lice infesting both humans and animals.
The Context of Exodus 8:17
The plague transforms the dust into a plague agent.
What Does Exodus 8:17 Mean?
The transformation is absolute and instantaneous. All dust—the ground itself—becomes lice. The plague penetrates every surface and infests every living thing. Escape is impossible because the plague is everywhere.
The indiscriminate nature (both human and beast) emphasizes judgment on all creation. Egypt's environment turns hostile; even the ground betrays security.
Exodus 8:17 in the Original Language
The Hebrew word for lice (kinnim, כִנִּים) or gnats refers to biting insects; some scholars propose 'gnats' or 'sand-flies' as more likely. The exact species matters less than the image of small, irritating, ubiquitous creatures infesting clothing and skin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 8:17
What does Exodus 8:17 mean?
Aaron obeys, striking the dust until all dust becomes lice infesting both humans and animals.
What is the context of Exodus 8:17?
The plague transforms the dust into a plague agent.