Exodus 10:18Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Moses is truly commendable, for despite the punishment that came from above, he, in his devotion, turned away even from those who opposed him, embodying genuine humility and compassion as referenced in Numbers 12:3. He understood that Pharaoh would not keep his commitments, yet he deemed it valuable to intercede on behalf of the people and, when wronged, to extend forgiveness and blessings instead.

Pharaoh humbly seeks pardon, admitting his wrongdoing, and recognizes the Lord, requesting Him to intercede on his behalf. Moses no longer imposes conditions or poses inquiries; he departs from Pharaoh, content with the king's contrition even without a response, and raises his hands to the Creator, praying for the cessation of the disaster. As Pharaoh's stature diminishes, Moses' significance is increasingly magnified. Moses seeks no gain or makes no demands from Pharaoh at this point; he understands that the Lord will lead the Israelites out of the burdens of Egypt, observing the cowardly, unreliable, and treacherous Pharaoh with a dignified tranquility.