Exodus 9:27Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Had Pharaoh not previously sinned when he became hardened? Certainly, he had transgressed before, yet not in the same manner as he did this time. He was given a warning, instructed to gather the livestock, yet he chose to defy it. Consequently, he faced harsher consequences than before, as his foolishness had intensified.

As we sang in the hymn, 'God is faithful, in Whom there is no injustice.' Thus, as previously mentioned, it is clear that Pharaoh's heart was hardened, not merely by God's might, but rather through His patience. We see this in Pharaoh's own admission, as he cried out in the face of just afflictions, 'O righteous God, look at me and my sinful people' (cf. Ex. 9:27). Who among believers would dare to question the justice of a God whom even a sinful ruler acknowledges as just?

It is intriguing to observe how accurately Pharaoh's character is portrayed—cruel, arrogant, and deceitful in both his words and deeds, he seeks repentance only when faced with peril, only to mislead those who place their trust in him once the threat has passed. Moses's understanding of Pharaoh is clear, as indicated in verse 30; yet, for the first time, Pharaoh distinctly acknowledges Jehovah as God.