Exodus 9:11 Meaning and Explanation
“And the magicians could not stand before Moses because of the boils; for the boil was upon the magicians, and upon all the Egyptians.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The plague affects even the Egyptian magicians, who cannot face Moses because of the painful boils.
The Context of Exodus 9:11
The magicians' failure to resist the plague shows the limits of their power and establishes Moses' authority.
What Does Exodus 9:11 Mean?
Until this point, Pharaoh's magicians have been able to replicate some of Moses' signs, creating a contest. Now they are afflicted by the same plague as everyone else. They are not spared; they are not specially protected. They suffer along with Pharaoh.
Their inability to stand before Moses is both physical and symbolic. The pain prevents them from approaching, but more importantly, they have no power to counter this plague or to defend their position. They have been revealed as powerless.
Exodus 9:11 in the Original Language
magicians (חַרְטֻמִּים) — wise men or sorcerers of Egypt, skilled in secret arts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 9:11
What does Exodus 9:11 mean?
The plague affects even the Egyptian magicians, who cannot face Moses because of the painful boils.
What is the context of Exodus 9:11?
The magicians' failure to resist the plague shows the limits of their power and establishes Moses' authority.