The death of the firstborn in Egypt was the final and most devastating judgment God sent upon Pharaoh and his nation. This act was not arbitrary but a righteous response to Egypt’s oppression, Pharaoh’s defiance, and their idolatry. It also revealed God’s power and the seriousness of rebellion against Him.
Exodus 11:4–5 records God’s warning:
“Then Moses said, ‘Thus says the Lord: “About midnight I will go out into the midst of Egypt; and all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sits on his throne, even to the firstborn of the female servant who is behind the handmill, and all the firstborn of the animals.”’”
This judgment struck the very heart of Egypt’s strength and pride. The firstborn represented inheritance, hope, and continuity of the family line. By taking the firstborn, God demons/”>demonstrated that life belongs to Him and that sin brings death. Pharaoh’s refusal to submit brought the ultimate consequence.
Exodus 12:12 explains the spiritual dimension:
“For I will pass through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I am the Lord.”
The plague was a direct blow to Egypt’s gods, including Pharaoh himself, who was regarded as divine. It exposed their impotence and exalted the Lord as the true God.
This event also highlights God’s mercy to Israel through the Passover. Those who applied the blood of the lamb to their doorposts were spared (Exodus 12:13). The judgment on Egypt and the salvation of Israel foreshadow the gospel: Christ, our Passover Lamb, delivers us from death through His blood (1 Corinthians 5:7).
The death of Egypt’s firstborn teaches that God is holy, sin has consequences, and deliverance comes only through the provision God supplies.
