Exodus 10:27Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The Lord caused Pharaoh's heart to become unyielding, preventing him from releasing the Israelites. When God hardens a heart, its condition does not alter under His influence. However, if Pharaoh, while undergoing his suffering, declared, ‘I will let them go,’ but then refused to free the Hebrews after the consequence had subsided, it indicates that the obstinacy of his heart stemmed not from divine intervention but from his own inner nature. During his trial, he appeared willing to follow the command, yet once the burden was lifted, he disregarded the divine laws.

Had Pharaoh recognized his errors at the final moment and released the Israelites, he could have avoided his own demise and, by honoring his commitments, would not have met his end in the depths of the Red Sea. The narrative surrounding Pharaoh holds deep significance, particularly when considering the numerous chances he was given to uphold his promises and thus shield himself from further calamities. In a critical moment, the declaration is reiterated, “The Lord hardened his heart,” as God inflicts upon him the punishment of insanity.