Exo 3:20 | NETfull | STEP | So I will extend my hand and strike Egypt with all my wonders that I will do among them, and after that he will release you.

Exodus 3:20

20 So I will extend my hand ^{▼▼ The outstretched arm is a bold anthropomorphism. It describes the power of God. The Egyptians will later admit that the plagues were by the hand of God (Exod 8:19).} and strike Egypt with all my wonders ^{▼▼ The word נִפְלְאֹתַי (nifl^e’otay) does not specify what the intervention will be. As the text unfolds it will be clear that the plagues are intended. Signs and portents could refer to things people might do, but “wonders” only God could do. The root refers to that which is extraordinary, surpassing, amazing, difficult to comprehend. See Isa 9:6; Gen 18:14; Ps 139:6.} that I will do among them, and after that he will release you. ^{▼▼ The two uses of the root שָׁלָח (shalakh) in this verse contribute to its force. When the Lord “sends” (Qal) his hand, Pharaoh will “send” (Piel) the Israelites out of Egypt.}