Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Exodus 10:23
They saw not one another, neither rose any from his place for three days: but all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings.
23. but, &c.] What is here described is evidently miraculous: but it is said that the sand-clouds of the amsn (see below) sometimes travel in streaks, so that parts of the country may escape them.
The darkness was no doubt occasioned really by a sand-storm, produced by the hot electrical wind called the amsn, which in Egypt blows in most years intermittently, usually for two or three days at a time, from the S., SE., or SW. during some 50 days in spring (hence its name, amsn = fifty). These winds spring up for the most part suddenly: they are violent, and often as hot as ‘the air of an oven’; and they frequently raise such an amount of sand and dust as to darken the sun, and even to conceal objects a few yards off. Men and animals like are greatly distressed by the sand and heat: the sand penetrates everywhere; and while the storm lasts, people are obliged to remain secluded in their houses. On account of the sand and dust, the darkness is really such as ‘can be felt.’ See R. Pococke, Description of the East (1743), i. 195; Volney, Voyage en Syrie et en gypte (1787), i. 55 7; DB. iii. 892 a ; A. B. Edwards, A thousand miles up the Nile 2 (1889), ch. 5, p. 76 f.; Rosenm. Schol. ad loc. (a sandstorm, c. 1100, producing darkness so intense that it was thought the end of the world had come); Denon [above, p. 79], i. 285 f.; and a photograph in the Ill. London News, Feb. 17, 1906.
Fuente: The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
Had light in their dwellings – The sandstorm, if such were the cause, may not have extended to the district of Goshen; but the expression clearly denotes a miraculous intervention, whether accomplished or not by natural agencies.
Fuente: Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible
Verse 23. They saw not one another] So deep was the obscurity, and probably such was its nature, that no artificial light could be procured; as the thick clammy vapours would prevent lamps, c., from burning, or if they even could be ignited, the light through the palpable obscurity, could diffuse itself to no distance from the burning body. The author of the book of Wisdom, chap. xvii. 2-19, gives a fearful description of this plague. He says, “The Egyptians were shut up in their houses, the prisoners of darkness: and were fettered with the bonds of a long night. They were scattered under a dark veil of forgetfulness, being horribly astonished and troubled with strange apparitions for neither might the corner that held them keep them from fear; but noises as of waters falling down sounded about them; and sad visions appeared unto them with heavy countenances. No power of the fire could give them light-only there appeared unto them a fire kindled of itself very dreadful; for being much terrified, they thought the things which they saw to be worse than the sight they saw not. For though no terrible thing did scare them, yet being scared with beasts that passed by, and hissing of serpents, they died for fear: for whether he were husbandman, or shepherd, or a labourer in the field, he was overtaken; for they were all bound with one chain of darkness. Whether it were a whistling wind, or a terrible sound of stones cast down, or a running that could not be seen of tripping beasts, or a roaring voice of most savage wild beasts, or a rebounding echo from the hollow mountains, these things made them to swoon for fear.” See Ps 78:49.
To this description nothing need be added except this circumstance, that the darkness, with its attendant horrors, lasted for three days.
All the children of Israel had light] By thus distinguishing the Israelites, God showed the Egyptians that the darkness was produced by his power; that he sent it in judgment against them for their cruelty to his people; that because they trusted in him they were exempted from these plagues; that in the displeasure of such a Being his enemies had every thing to fear, and in his approbation his followers had every thing to hope.
Fuente: Adam Clarke’s Commentary and Critical Notes on the Bible
They saw not one another, because these gross and moist fogs and vapours did not only quite shut out the light of the heavenly bodies, but also put out their candles, or other artificial lights, or at least so darken them that men could have no benefit by them.
From his place. Place here may be taken, either,
1. More strictly and particularly; so the sense is, The horror of that darkness was so great that they durst not remove at all, but stood or sat where the darkness found them, like men astonished or affrighted, and therefore unmovable, having their minds disturbed, being terrified with their guilty consciences, which most affect men in the dark, and with the dreadful noises which they heard, Wis 17:5, and with the apparitions of evil angels, as may seem from Psa 78:49 where the plague of evil angels is put instead of this plague of darkness, which therefore is omitted in that place where all the rest are reckoned up. Or rather,
2. More largely, for their own houses or dwellings, for so the Hebrew word is certainly used, Exo 16:29. So the sense is, They did not stir abroad out of their houses upon their most necessary occasions.
Object. He saith not that they could not go, but that they could not rise from their place, which may seem to limit this expression to their particular places.
Answ. The word to rise is commonly put for going about any business; and here it is a pregnant word, as they call it, and implies going in it, none arose, viz. to go or remove
from his place. And rising cannot be properly taken here for that particular posture, unless we will suppose that this darkness found all men sitting, which is absurd to imagine.
The children of Israel had light in their dwellings, whereby they might have conveyed themselves, and families, and goods away, as afterwards they did in haste; but they waited for Mosess orders, and he for Gods command; and God intended to bring them forth, not by stealth, but in a more honourable and public manner, in spite of all opposition.
Fuente: English Annotations on the Holy Bible by Matthew Poole
They saw not one another,…. Not only the luminaries of heaven were covered and beclouded with the darkness, so that they were of no use to them; but the fogs and vapours which occasioned it were so damp and clammy that they put out their fires, lamps, and candles, so that they could receive no benefit from them:
neither rose up any from his place for three days; from the place of his habitation, not being able to find the way to the door, or however not able to do any business abroad; and besides were quite amazed and confounded, supposing the course of nature was changed and all things going to a dissolution, their consciences filled with horror and terror and black despair, strange and terrible phantoms and apparitions presented to their minds, as the author of the book of Wisdom suggests,
“No power of the fire might give them light: neither could the bright flames of the stars endure to lighten that horrible night.” (Wisdom 17:5)
and which is countenanced by what the psalmist says, who instead of this plague of darkness, takes notice of evil angels being sent among them, Ps 78:49 that is, devils in horrible shapes represented to their minds, which dreadfully distressed and terrified them, so that they durst not stir and move from the place where they were:
but all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings; not only in the land of Goshen, but in all places where they were mixed with the Egyptians, as it is plain they were, from Ex 10:23 so that they could go about their business, and perform it as at other times, and had now a fine opportunity of packing up their goods, and getting every thing ready for their departure, without being observed by the Egyptians. Doctor Lightfoot k thinks, that now they attended to the ordinance of circumcision, which had been generally neglected, and was necessary to their partaking of the passover, which in a few days was to be observed, and of which no uncircumcised person might eat,
Ex 12:48 and which he grounds upon Ps 105:28, and this time was wisely taken for it, when the Egyptians could have no opportunity or advantage against them, because of their soreness by it; it may indeed be wondered at, that they did not take the advantage of the darkness the Egyptians were in, of getting out of the land, and going their three days’ journey into the wilderness; but it was the will of God that they should not steal away privately, or go by flight as fugitives, but openly, and with the mighty hand and outstretched arm of God; besides, the Lord had not as yet wrought all the judgments he intended. In the fabulous expedition of Bacchus against the Indians, a story is told which seems to be taken from hence, that the Indians were covered with darkness, while those with Bacchus were in light all around them l.
k Works, vol. 1. p. 707. l Vid. Huet. Quaest. Alnetan. l. 2. c. 13. sect. 12. p. 204.
Fuente: John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
(23) They saw not one another.Heb., man did not see his brother. The darkness was absolute, equal to that of the darkest night.
Neither rose any from his place.Comp. Exo. 16:29. No one quitted his house. Mr. Millington imagines that they all sat glued to their seats (Plagues of Egypt, p. 159), but this savours of over-literalism. It is not necessary to suppose that they had no artificial light, or that they ceased to move from chamber to chamber. What the writer intends to note is that all business and all intercourse with neighbours was suspended. No one quitted the house in which he was when the darkness began.
All the children of Israel had light in their dwellings.The visitation, whatever it was, did not extend to the land of Goshen. (Comp. Exo. 8:22-24; Exo. 9:4-7; Exo. 9:26.)
Fuente: Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers (Old and New Testaments)
Exo 10:23. But all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings In the midst of every punishment, Jehovah distinguished the Israelites: thus giving ample and constant conviction to the Egyptians, that he was the Sovereign and sole Author of these wonders; and emphatically instructing them, had they been wise enough to have received it, that nothing can harm them, whose confidence is Jehovah: a God, no less tender in mercies to those who obey, than fearful in judgments to those who despise his word.
Fuente: Commentary on the Holy Bible by Thomas Coke
DISCOURSE: 74
DISTINGUISHING PRIVILEGES OF THE LORDS PEOPLE
Exo 10:23. But all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings.
OF all the plagues which in rapid succession were inflicted upon Egypt, not so much as one fell upon the children of Israel: their cattle, and every thing belonging to them, enjoyed the same exemption as themselves. And this distinction was well calculated to convince Pharaoh, that Israels God was the only true God, and that the idols of the heathen were vanity [Note: Exo 8:22.]. But, whilst we admit that this was the primary end of all the judgments, and of the plague of darkness amongst the rest, we cannot but think that this particular plague had something in it more than ordinarily instructive; inasmuch as it served to shew, that between the Lords people and others there is at all times as great a difference, as there then was between Goshen and the rest of Egypt. We say not, indeed, that this particular application of the subject is anywhere suggested by the inspired writers; but we do say, that it may well be so applied, in a way of accommodation at least, to the elucidation of this most important point.
I will take occasion from it then to shew,
I.
The difference which God has put between his own people and others
In their state, and nature, in their relation to God and to each other, in their prospects also, and in their end, the two descriptions of persons are widely different from each other: the one are quickened from the dead, and partakers of a divine nature; united to Christ and to each other in one body and by one spirit; with an heavenly inheritance before them, which they are speedily and for ever to possess; whilst the others are yet children of the wicked one, with no other prospect than that of a banishment from the divine presence, and an everlasting participation with the fallen angels in their unhappy lot. But without entering into this large view of the subject, I will endeavour to shew what light the children of Israel are privileged to enjoy in,
1.
Things temporal
[In appearance, all things come alike to all; or, if there be any particular difference in relation to temporal things, it is rather in favour of the ungodly. But the godly, whether they possess more or less of this world, have an enjoyment of it, of which the world at large are destitute, and in their present state incapable. They taste Gods love in every thing; and hare a more vivid apprehension of the smallest blessings, than an ungodly man has of the greatest. The blessings of the ungodly are, in fact, cursed to them: their table is a snare to them; and even their bodily health and strength are made occasions of more flagrant transgressions against their God. To Gods Israel, on the contrary, their severest afflictions are made sources of good; insomuch that they can glory in their tribulations [Note: Rom 5:3.], and take pleasure in their sorest infirmities [Note: 2Co 12:10.]. Whatever trials assault them, they all work together for their good [Note: Rom 8:25.] ; yea, light and momentary as they are, they work out for them a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory [Note: 2Co 4:17.]. The very best portion of the wicked is lighter than vanity; whilst the worst of a good mans lot is received by him not only with patience and long-suffering, but with joy and thankfulness [Note: Col 1:11-12.]. Though he be the poorest of mankind, he does in effect inherit the earth; yea, he inherits all things.]
2.
Things spiritual
[The ungodly man is truly in darkness with respect to every thing that is of a spiritual nature. He neither does, nor can, comprehend any thing of that kind, for want of a spiritual discernment. But Gods highly favoured people have light in their dwellings, whereby they can discern things invisible to mortal eyes. The evil of sin, the beauty of holiness, the glory of Christ, the blessedness of heaven, are open to their view, and are contemplated by them with a zest which can be conceived by those only who actually experience it in their souls. What shall I say of the light of Gods countenance lifted up upon them, or of the love of God shed abroad in their hearts by the Holy Ghost? What shall I say of the Holy Spirit dwelling in them as a Spirit of adoption, witnessing with their spirits that they are Gods children, and sealing them unto the day of redemption, and being an earnest of heaven itself in their souls? To attempt to describe these things would be only to darken counsel by words without knowledge. If we should in vain attempt to convey to one immured in a dungeon a just conception of the lustre and influence of the meridian sun; much more must we fail, if we would attempt to give to a natural man a just apprehension of the things of the Spirit: for neither have we any language whereby adequately to express them, nor have they any faculties whereby duly to apprehend them.]
3.
Things eternal
[What can an ungodly man see beyond the grave? Truly in relation to the future world he is in darkness, even in a darkness that may be felt. If he reflect at all, he can feel nothing but a certain fearful looking-for of judgment and fiery indignation to consume him, and have no prospect but that of the blackness of darkness for ever. But in reference to eternity, the child of God is seen to the greatest advantage. O, what prospects are open to his view! What crowns, what kingdoms, await him! Truly he stands as on Mount Pisgah, and surveys the Promised Land in all its length and breadth. He joins already with the heavenly hosts in all their songs of praise, and, according to the measure of the grace bestowed upon him, anticipates the pleasures which are at Gods right hand for evermore.]
But, that I may not tantalize you with joys which you can never taste, let me proceed to shew you,
II.
How we may secure to ourselves their happy lot
Can an Egyptian become an Israelite? Yes, he may
[An Israelite is a descendant of Abraham, in the line of Jacob. But how then can this relation be transferred to a foreigner? After the flesh indeed, an Edomite must remain an Edomite; an Egyptian must continue an Egyptian. But after the Spirit, the transition may be made by all, of whatever nation, provided only they earnestly desire it. Through faith in that blessed Saviour in whom Abraham believed, we may be brought to a participation of all the blessings which were conferred on him. Hear what the Scripture saith: Know ye, that they who are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham: the same, too, are blessed with faithful Abraham; yea, the blessing of Abraham comes on them through Jesus Christ: if we be Christs, then are we Abrahams seed, and heirs according to the promise [Note: Gal 3:7; Gal 3:9; Gal 3:14; Gal 3:29.].]
And, under this character, we shall be exempted from all the Egyptian plagues, and entitled to all the distinctions that ever were conferred on Gods chosen people
[Truly, however gross the darkness which may have covered us in past times, we shall have light in our dwellings; yea, we shall be brought out of darkness into Gods marvellous light; and not only be turned from darkness unto light, but from the power of Satan unto God. Say, Brethren, whether this does not accord with the experience of some amongst you? Say, whether the brightest hours of your former life are comparable even with your darkest now? I well know that in this present life there will be clouds that will occasionally intercept the full radiance of the Sun of Righteousness, and induce a transient gloom over your horizon: but I ask with confidence, whether at such a season you would exchange your portion for that of the happiest worldling upon earth? No: you well know, that though your darkness may continue for a night, joy will come in the morning [Note: Psa 30:5.]: and even in the darkest night some gleams of light are wont to shine into your soul, according to that sure promise, Unto the godly there ariseth up light in the darkness [Note: Psa 112:4.]. True it is, that sin will bring darkness upon the soul: and true it is, also, that bodily disease may sometimes operate unfavourably in this respect: but, if we be upright before God, when we walk in darkness, the Lord will be a light unto us [Note: Mic 7:8.] ; and, in due season, our light shall shine in obscurity, and our darkness be as the noonday [Note: Isa 58:10.].]
Address
1.
Those who are walking in the light of their own carnal enjoyments
[Truly it is but a taper that ye possess, whilst ye are regardless of the radiance of the noonday sun And what does God say to you? Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks; walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled: but this shall ye have of mine hand at last, ye shall lie down in sorrow [Note: Isa 50:11.]. Behold, my servants shall eat, but ye shall be hungry: behold, my servants shall drink, but ye shall be thirsty: behold, my servants shall rejoice, but ye shall be ashamed: behold, my servants shall sing for joy of heart, but ye shall cry for sorrow of heart, and shall howl for vexation of spirit [Note: Isa 65:13-14.].]
2.
Those who, though Israelites indeed, are yet walking in somewhat of a gloomy frame
[We have before said, that such seasons may occur: but the direction given you by God himself is that which must be your consolation and support: Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, and yet walketh in darkness and hath no light? Let him trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon his God [Note: Isa 50:10.]. There may be reasons for the withdrawment of light from your souls, reasons of which you at present have no conception. Peradventure God has seen that you have not duly improved the former manifestations of his love; or he may see that an uninterrupted continuance of them might give advantage to Satan to puff you up with pride. But, whether you can trace these suspensions of the divine favour to any particular cause or not, learn at all events to justify God in them, and to improve them for the deeper humiliation of your souls: and look forward to that blessed period when you shall dwell in the light as God is in the light, and enjoy a day that shall never end [Note: 1Jn 1:7; Rev 21:23; Rev 22:5.].]
Fuente: Charles Simeon’s Horae Homileticae (Old and New Testaments)
Exo 10:23 They saw not one another, neither rose any from his place for three days: but all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings.
Ver. 23. They saw not one another. ] That they might know the worth of light, by the want of it. One being asked whether light was pleasant, answered, , That is a blind man’s question. Little do we prize this excellent creature.
Fuente: John Trapp’s Complete Commentary (Old and New Testaments)
but all: Exo 8:22, Exo 9:4, Exo 9:26, Exo 14:20, Jos 24:7, Isa 42:16, Isa 60:1-3, Isa 65:13, Isa 65:14, Mal 3:18, Col 1:13, 1Pe 2:9
Reciprocal: Exo 7:25 – General Exo 11:7 – a difference Job 3:4 – darkness Amo 4:7 – and I
Fuente: The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Exo 10:23. Neither rose any from his place This circumstance is one of the lively strokes in description which critics call picturesque: it strongly paints the horror and dismay which this palpable darkness cast upon their minds. Le Clerc, however, justly remarks, that we are not to understand the expression so strictly, as if not one of the Egyptians rose from his place; for the servants, at least, must have moved about the best way they could to find victuals for themselves and their masters. The expression denotes that there was a total inaction and cessation from ordinary business, that they were all confined to their houses, and that such a terror seized them, that few of them had courage to go even from their chairs to their beds, or from their beds to their chairs. Thus were they silent in darkness, 1Sa 2:9. Now Pharaoh had time to consider, if he would have improved it. But the children of Israel had light in their dwellings Not only in the land of Goshen, where most of them inhabited, but in the particular dwellings which in other places the Israelites had dispersed among the Egyptians, as it appears they had, by the distinction afterward appointed to be put on their door-posts. And during these three days of darkness to the Egyptians, if God had so pleased, the Israelites, by the light which they had, might have made their escape, and have asked Pharaoh no leave; but God would bring them out with a high hand, and not by stealth, or in haste.