Exodus 10 continues the narrative of the plagues God sends upon Egypt through Moses and Aaron to convince Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery. This chapter covers the eighth plague (locusts) and the ninth plague (darkness), escalating the pressure on Pharaoh.
The Eighth Plague: Locusts (Exodus 10:1-20)
God instructs Moses to confront Pharaoh again, explaining that these plagues are also a demonstration of His power to the Egyptians and a lesson for the Israelites to pass down to future generations. Moses and Aaron warn Pharaoh that if he refuses to let the Israelites go, a swarm of locusts will devastate Egypt's remaining crops and fill the land. Pharaoh’s officials urge him to relent, fearing total ruin, and Pharaoh briefly negotiates, offering to let only the men go. Moses insists everyone must leave, and Pharaoh rejects this. God then sends the locusts, which consume every plant and crop left after the hail (from the seventh plague). Pharaoh, in desperation, calls Moses and Aaron back, confesses his sin, and begs for the plague to stop. God removes the locusts with a strong wind, but Pharaoh’s heart hardens again, and he refuses to free the Israelites.
The Ninth Plague: Darkness (Exodus 10:21-29)
God commands Moses to stretch out his hand, bringing a thick darkness over Egypt for three days. This darkness is so intense that the Egyptians cannot see or move, yet the Israelites have light where they live. Pharaoh summons Moses and offers to let the people go, but insists their livestock remain behind. Moses rejects this, explaining that they need their animals for sacrifices to God. Pharaoh angrily refuses to release them fully and threatens Moses with death if he returns. Moses declares he will not see Pharaoh again, setting the stage for the final plague.
Key Themes

• God’s Power: The plagues demonstrate God’s sovereignty over nature and Pharaoh’s stubbornness.
  
• Hardened Heart: Pharaoh’s repeated refusal, despite moments of apparent repentance, shows his resistance to God’s will.
  
• Escalation: The plagues grow increasingly severe, moving toward the climactic tenth plague.
  

This chapter highlights the intensifying conflict between God’s purpose for His people and Pharaoh’s defiance, leading to the dramatic events of the Passover and the Exodus